Alex Docampo, dermatologist, on some acne and pimple products: "In the long run, they can make your skin worse."

More and more young people are looking to TikTok for health and wellness advice, especially on topics like acne. One of those gaining popularity on the social network is dermatologist Álex Docampo, who sparked debate with a video questioning the use of certain antibiotic wipes recommended by some influencers to combat pimples.

"Although they may work occasionally, in the long term they can make your skin worse," the specialist asserts in a barely one-minute clip that has accumulated thousands of views. Docampo is referring to wipes impregnated with erythromycin, a topical antibiotic still prescribed by some professionals, but whose isolated use poses serious risks to skin health.

The dermatologist warns that relying solely on these types of products can lead to bacterial resistance , a problem that not only reduces the effectiveness of treatments but can also intensify acne outbreaks. "Using antibiotics alone on the skin encourages bacteria to become resistant. When this happens, treatments stop working and acne becomes more aggressive," explains the expert.

One of the main problems with these types of solutions is their apparent immediacy. According to Docampo, the idea of ​​quickly wiping your face with a washcloth and achieving clear skin is very appealing , especially for those looking for an easy, hassle-free remedy. However, what seems like a quick fix turns out to be, in the words of the dermatologist, "a band-aid that doesn't solve anything."

Short-term effectiveness can lead to a false sense of control over the problem, when in reality, the root cause of acne isn't being addressed. "A wipe seems faster and easier to sell," she says, but insists that this is no substitute for comprehensive treatment tailored to each patient's real needs.

Far from being an isolated opinion, Docampo's warning coincides with current recommendations in clinical guidelines for dermatology. As the doctor points out, "the clinical practice guidelines are clear: no antibiotics alone on the skin." This is because the use of topical antibiotics as the sole treatment favors the emergence of resistant strains, which complicates long-term management.

For mild acne, the specialist suggests more effective and safer alternatives: "combinations with benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, and, in many cases, reducing sebum production with oral treatment." In other words, a personalized, professionally supervised approach that takes into account the severity of the condition and each individual's skin type.

One of the most talked-about aspects of the video is its indirect criticism of the content circulating on social media. Although Docampo doesn't mention specific names, he makes it clear that some viral recommendations can be misguided or even counterproductive. "It's the trick influencers recommend for acne, which even your doctor could be doing wrong," he begins the video.