Medical professionals are raising alarms over the resurgence of an old cosmetic procedure that has dangerous side effects, leaving some patients with skin described as “reptilian.”
The trend involves a technique called mesotherapy, which dates back decades but has recently gained popularity in the United States. Mesotherapy consists of injecting a mixture of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients beneath the skin using fine needles.
Marketed as a treatment to smooth wrinkles, reduce fat, and address under-eye bags, mesotherapy has been widely promoted by aesthetic clinics such as Neo Health Clinic. However, experts warn that the risks of the procedure far outweigh the potential benefits.
What Is Mesotherapy?
Originally developed in France in 1952 to treat vascular and immune disorders, mesotherapy has evolved into a cosmetic procedure. It is often used on the stomach, hands, and most commonly, the under-eye area.
The process involves injecting substances directly under the skin, which can temporarily create small, raised bumps. This reaction leaves the skin with a “honeycomb-like” texture, which some have compared to the scales of a reptile.
While these bumps usually fade, dermatologists caution that the procedure carries serious risks, particularly when performed by unqualified practitioners or at home.
Serious Risks Highlighted by Experts
Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist in New York, spoke to Mail Online about the dangers associated with mesotherapy.
“The risks of under-eye mesotherapy extend far beyond minor side effects,” she explained. “When performed by inexperienced technicians or attempted at home, patients can experience long-lasting bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis due to improper injection into blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage.”
Another major concern is the lack of standardization in mesotherapy solutions. Unlike FDA-regulated treatments such as Botox, mesotherapy blends vary widely between practitioners. Some may use unverified or even counterfeit ingredients, adding to the risks.
Dr. Kazlouskaya noted, “The absence of regulatory oversight in the U.S. leaves patients vulnerable to dangerous or counterfeit products, even though the practice may be legal in other countries.”
The Role of Social Media and Accessibility
Part of mesotherapy’s growing popularity can be attributed to its accessibility and affordability. Mesotherapy kits are sold online for prices ranging from $45 to $349, making the procedure tempting for individuals seeking inexpensive cosmetic solutions.
Dr. Tripathi, a California-based plastic surgeon, highlighted the simplicity of the technique as a key factor driving its popularity.
“It’s cheap, easy to perform, and requires minimal training,” Dr. Tripathi said. “Social media platforms like TikTok have also fueled this trend, with some users attempting to perform mesotherapy on themselves.”
However, he warned that such inexperience can lead to severe complications, including granulomas (immune reactions that form lumps under the skin), infections, and scarring.
Lack of FDA Approval
Despite its widespread use, the FDA has not approved mesotherapy blends for facial treatments. While individual ingredients in the solutions may have FDA approval, the combined formulas lack regulation, leaving patients uncertain about what they are injecting into their skin.
Dr. Tripathi compared this lack of oversight to the unregulated supplement industry. “Just like with supplements, you don’t always know what you’re getting,” he explained.
Safer Alternatives for Under-Eye Concerns
Under-eye issues like dark circles, puffiness, and hollowing can stem from various causes, including pigmentation, fat migration, or thinning skin.
Dr. Tripathi emphasized that effective treatments depend on identifying the underlying issue. For instance:
- Pigmentation problems may respond to skincare products or plasma injections.
- Wrinkles and thinning skin can often be addressed with laser treatments.
- Puffiness caused by fat migration may require surgical intervention, such as blepharoplasty.
Although mesotherapy has been promoted as a solution for under-eye hollowing, scientific studies have yet to prove its effectiveness in this area.
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, another dermatologist based in New York, stressed the importance of evidence-based treatments.
“As a dermatologist, I always advocate for a tailored approach to treating dark circles,” Dr. Kopelman said. “It’s essential to pinpoint the root cause and explore safe, proven options that deliver predictable results.”
Proceed With Caution
While mesotherapy may seem like a quick fix for aesthetic concerns, experts agree that its risks make it an unreliable and potentially harmful option. Patients are urged to seek professional advice and opt for treatments backed by research and regulation to avoid unnecessary complications.