Medical professionals are raising alarms about a resurfacing cosmetic procedure that can temporarily leave individuals with skin resembling that of a reptile. This decades-old technique, known as mesotherapy, has regained popularity, prompting renewed concern among healthcare providers.
Mesotherapy involves the injection of a customized blend of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and other nutrients into the middle layer of the skin using fine needles. Originally developed in France in 1952 by Dr. Michel Pistor to treat vascular and immune disorders, the procedure has since evolved into an aesthetic treatment aimed at reducing wrinkles, eliminating under-eye bags, and diminishing localized fat deposits. Its application has expanded globally, including significant traction in the United States.
The treatment is versatile, being administered on various body areas such as the abdomen, hands, and most notably, the under-eye region. Despite its cosmetic appeal, mesotherapy is associated with several temporary side effects. Immediately following the injections, patients may develop small, raised bumps on the skin, creating a ‘honeycomb-like’ texture. Some individuals describe this appearance as ‘reptilian,’ though these effects typically subside within a few days.
However, healthcare experts caution that the potential risks of mesotherapy may outweigh its benefits, particularly when performed by inexperienced practitioners or through self-administration. Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist based in New York, expressed serious concerns: “The risks of under-eye mesotherapy extend beyond minor side effects, especially when individuals seek treatment from unqualified technicians or attempt the procedure themselves. Patients may experience prolonged bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis resulting from inadvertent injection into blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage.”
A significant issue arises from the lack of standardization in the substances used during mesotherapy. Unlike FDA-regulated treatments such as Botox, mesotherapy formulations are often unique to each practitioner and may include unverified or counterfeit products. Dr. Kazlouskaya further noted: “While mesotherapy may be legal in some countries, the absence of regulatory oversight in the United States means patients could be exposed to counterfeit or unverified products.”
The accessibility and perceived simplicity of mesotherapy have contributed to its widespread use. Companies market mesotherapy solutions online, with prices ranging from $45 to $349, making it an appealing yet potentially risky option for consumers. Dr. Tripathi, a plastic surgeon based in California, highlighted this concern: “It’s inexpensive, straightforward to perform, and requires minimal training. However, inexperience can lead to complications, including granulomas—immune reactions forming lumps under the skin—infections, or scarring.”
Despite its growing popularity, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved mesotherapy blends for facial use. While individual ingredients might possess FDA approval, the complete formulations lack regulation. Dr. Tripathi compared this to the unregulated supplement industry: “Similar to the multi-billion dollar supplement industry, it’s unregulated, so consumers may not always know what they’re receiving.”
Under-eye concerns vary widely based on individual anatomy and underlying causes, such as fat migration, pigmentation, or thinning skin. Dr. Tripathi explained that the most effective treatments depend on the specific issue. For instance, pigmentation problems might improve with topical skincare products or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, while thin, wrinkled skin could benefit from laser treatments. In cases where fat migration causes puffiness, surgical interventions like blepharoplasty may be necessary. Although mesotherapy may theoretically assist with under-eye hollowing, studies have yet to confirm its efficacy.
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist in New York, emphasized the importance of identifying the root cause before pursuing any treatment: “As a dermatologist, I always stress the necessity of a tailored approach to addressing dark circles, beginning with determining the underlying cause and exploring evidence-based options that provide safe and predictable results.”
In conclusion, while mesotherapy presents a non-surgical option for various cosmetic concerns, it carries significant risks, particularly when administered without proper expertise or regulatory oversight. Individuals considering such treatments should consult qualified medical professionals to explore safer, evidence-based alternatives tailored to their specific needs.