Doctors are warning against a dangerous trend that can leave people looking like ‘reptiles.’
A decades-old cosmetic procedure has resurfaced, sparking concerns among medical professionals.
Known as mesotherapy, this technique involves injecting a mixture of vitamins and minerals beneath the skin using fine needles.
It is marketed as a way to smooth wrinkles, reduce fat, and eliminate under-eye bags, per Neo Health Clinic.
Initially developed in France in 1952 to address vascular and immune disorders, mesotherapy has evolved into a popular aesthetic treatment, gaining traction in the United States.
The procedure can be performed on various areas of the body, including the stomach and hands, though it is most commonly used under the eyes.
However, the procedure has temporary side effects, including small, raised bumps on the skin immediately after injection, giving it a ‘honeycomb-like’ appearance.
Some individuals even describe the texture as ‘reptilian.’
Although these effects typically fade, doctors warn that the risks often outweigh the benefits.
Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a New York-based dermatologist, shared her concerns with Mail Online:
“The dangers of under-eye mesotherapy extend beyond minor side effects, especially when performed by inexperienced technicians or attempted at home.
“Patients may suffer from prolonged bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis if the product enters blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage.”
Another significant risk stems from the lack of standardization in the substances used. Unlike FDA-regulated treatments like Botox, mesotherapy formulas vary between practitioners and may contain unverified or counterfeit ingredients.
Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya warned, “While mesotherapy may be legal in some countries, the absence of U.S. regulatory oversight means patients could be exposed to unsafe or counterfeit products.”
Mesotherapy involves injecting a customized blend of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and other nutrients beneath the skin. Some formulations even include prescription medications such as antibiotics or vasodilators.
With prices ranging from $45 to $349 online, mesotherapy solutions are widely accessible but pose significant risks.
Dr. Tripathi, a California-based plastic surgeon, explained how the procedure’s simplicity has fueled its popularity: “It’s cheap, easy to do, and requires little training.”
Social media, particularly TikTok, has further driven the trend, with some users attempting the procedure on themselves.
“However, inexperience can lead to complications such as granulomas—immune reactions forming lumps under the skin—along with infections or scarring,” Dr. Tripathi cautioned.
Despite its growing popularity, the FDA has not approved mesotherapy blends for facial use.
While some individual ingredients may be FDA-approved, the complete formulas remain unregulated.
Dr. Tripathi compared this to the supplement industry, stating, “Just like the multi-billion dollar supplement industry, mesotherapy isn’t regulated, so you may not always know what you’re getting.”
Under-eye concerns vary widely depending on individual anatomy and underlying causes, such as fat migration, pigmentation, or thinning skin.
Dr. Tripathi emphasized that the most effective treatment depends on the specific issue.
For example, pigmentation problems may respond to skincare products or plasma injections, while thin, wrinkled skin could benefit from laser treatments. If puffiness is due to fat migration, surgery—such as blepharoplasty—may be necessary.
Although mesotherapy is sometimes suggested for under-eye hollowing, studies have yet to confirm its effectiveness.
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a New York-based dermatologist, stressed the importance of identifying the root cause before choosing a treatment:
“As a dermatologist, I always emphasize a tailored approach to dark circles, starting with diagnosing the underlying cause and exploring evidence-based treatments that offer safe, predictable results.”
