Experts are urging people to think twice before trying this popular non-surgical treatment.
Doctors and dermatologists are cautioning individuals interested in brightening their under-eye areas with non-surgical procedures to understand the potential risks involved.
Among the most alarming complications are unusual “lumps and bumps” that can result from certain treatments.
According to data from the National Institutes of Health, over 19.1 million non-surgical cosmetic procedures were performed globally in 2023.
Botox, or botulinum toxin, was the most popular choice, followed by hyaluronic acid fillers, hair removal, and chemical peels.
Another non-surgical option that has been gaining traction in the United States is Mesotherapy.
However, medical professionals are raising concerns about its potential side effects, including skin that some describe as taking on a “reptilian” appearance.
So, what exactly is Mesotherapy, and why are these warnings making headlines?
Let’s break it down.
A patient with welts under their eyes, a common side effect of the initial injections that eventually recedes.
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What is Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a combination of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts into the middle layer of the skin.
This method aims to rejuvenate the skin, tighten it, and even remove excess fat in some cases.
The treatment is advertised as “minimally invasive” and uses ultra-fine needles to deliver the solutions.
It’s commonly performed on areas such as the neck, face, hands, hairline, stomach, and décolletage.
What is Mesotherapy used for?
Mesotherapy is a versatile treatment, appealing to people with a range of cosmetic concerns.
It’s often used to improve the appearance of stretch marks, reduce cellulite, and rejuvenate tired-looking skin.
Some patients even opt for the treatment to assist with fat removal.
However, the American Society for Plastic Surgeons does not recommend Mesotherapy for fat reduction due to insufficient evidence supporting its effectiveness in this area.
Recently, the procedure has become especially popular for addressing dark circles and bags under the eyes.
Advocates claim it can lighten the skin and make under-eye puffiness less noticeable, but it’s not without risks.
Medical practitioners have outlined the side-effects of Mesotherapy
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What are the risks of Mesotherapy?
If you’re considering Mesotherapy, it’s crucial to consult a qualified healthcare provider before undergoing the treatment.
While the procedure is often marketed as safe, it can come with a range of side effects.
Common issues include redness, tenderness, and bruising at the injection site.
Some patients also report raised bumps under the skin, which have been likened to a “reptilian” texture.
The International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology notes: “Lumps and bumps are probably the most common complication from mesotherapy,”
They further explain: “They can result when the solution is distributed unevenly or when the solution is not homogenous and has different effects in different zones.”
“Concentrations vary when the mix is not homogenous and one area may have totally different materials from an adjacent one.”
But these are just the tip of the iceberg. More serious complications can arise, including infections that may lead to long-term tissue damage or even skin necrosis.
Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist based in New York, warns: “Patients may experience long-lasting bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis due to product placement in blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage,”
Who performs Mesotherapy and is it regulated?
Unlike treatments like Botox, Mesotherapy involves practitioners creating their own custom solutions. This means the substances used are not regulated or tested for safety in the same way.
Dr. Kazlouskaya points out: “While mesotherapy may be legal in some other countries, the absence of US regulatory oversight means patients could be exposed to counterfeit or unverified products,”
Additionally, Dr. Tripathi, a California-based plastic surgeon, cautions that inexperienced practitioners can lead to undesirable results. “Inexperience can be a problem that creates unsightly results,”
One expert quipped: ‘not all eyebags are created equal’
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Dr. Tripathi also emphasizes that Mesotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment.
He explains: “If someone wants a solution for their under eyes, the treatment has to be tailored based on their particular anatomy. Not all eyebags are created equal.”
What other ways can you relieve dark circles and eye bags?
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist in New York, advises anyone considering Mesotherapy to fully understand the risks before moving forward.
She shares: “As a dermatologist, I always emphasize the importance of a tailored approach to addressing dark circles, starting with identifying the underlying cause and exploring evidence-based options that provide safe and predictable results,”
If you decide against the procedure, there are other methods to address dark circles and eye bags.
The Cleveland Clinic suggests simple remedies like getting enough sleep, elevating your head at night and applying cucumber slices to your eyes.
For those struggling with under-eye puffiness, the Mayo Clinic recommends reducing fluid intake before bed and using a cool compress to minimize swelling.