A recent resurgence in a cosmetic trend known as mesotherapy has prompted medical professionals to issue warnings due to its potential adverse effects. One horrific possibility – skin resembling that of a reptile. Originally developed in France in 1952 to treat blood vessel and immune system disorders. Mesotherapy involves injecting a mixture of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and hormones under the skin. Today, it is marketed primarily as a method to reduce fat, tighten skin, and eliminate wrinkles.
Mesotherapy is a non-surgical treatment where practitioners use fine needles to deliver a concoction of substances beneath the skin’s surface. While it can be applied to various body parts, it is particularly popular for areas like the stomach and hands. Immediately following the procedure, patients often notice small, raised bumps under the skin.
These bumps are typically temporary and subside over time. However, images and videos circulating on social media platforms, such as TikTok, have drawn attention to these post-treatment effects. With some comparing the skin’s appearance to that of a reptile.
Medical Concerns and Potential Risks
Despite being considered minimally invasive with a short recovery period, the cosmetic trend, mesotherapy carries significant risks. Especially when performed by inexperienced technicians or through DIY methods at home. Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist based in New York, warns that patients may experience severe complications. These include long-lasting bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis (death of skin tissue) due to accidental injection into blood vessels, and even permanent eye damage when administered under the eyes.
Lack of Standardization and Regulatory Oversight
One of the critical issues with mesotherapy is the lack of standardization in the injected mixtures. Each practitioner may use a different combination of ingredients. Thus leaving patients uncertain about the exact substances being introduced into their bodies. These mixtures can include a range of components, from vitamins and minerals to prescription medications.
The United States Under Fire
In the United States, there is an absence of regulatory oversight for mesotherapy, meaning patients could be exposed to counterfeit or unverified products. Notably, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons does not endorse mesotherapy, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any medications specifically for this use.
Global Perspective and Regulatory Status
While the cosmetic trend mesotherapy may be legal in some countries, its regulatory status varies globally. In the United Kingdom, for instance, mesotherapy is not directly regulated by law. However, the government is consulting on a new licensing scheme for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, which would likely encompass mesotherapy. This move aims to enhance patient safety and ensure that practitioners meet specific standards.
Expert Recommendations and Safer Alternatives
Given the potential risks associated with mesotherapy, medical professionals advise individuals to consider safer, evidence-based alternatives for addressing cosmetic concerns such as under-eye bags or skin tightening.
Options may include topical treatments like eye creams containing caffeine or arnica gel, antihistamines for puffiness, and surgical procedures such as lower eyelid blepharoplasty performed by qualified surgeons. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon is crucial before undergoing any cosmetic procedure to ensure safety and efficacy.
Conclusion
The resurgence of mesotherapy as a cosmetic treatment has raised significant health concerns due to its potential to cause adverse effects, including skin resembling that of a reptile. The lack of regulatory oversight and standardization in the substances used further exacerbates these risks. Individuals considering such procedures are urged to seek professional medical advice and explore safer alternatives to achieve their aesthetic goals without compromising their health.
