Experts are advising individuals considering non-surgical procedures to lighten their under eye area to be cautious of potential risks, such as the development of unwanted ‘lumps and bumps’.
According to data from the National Institutes of Health, over 19.1 million non-surgical procedures were conducted globally in 2023.
Leading the category was Botulinum toxin, widely known as Botox, followed by hyaluronic acid treatments, hair removal, and chemical peels.
Mesotherapy is another non-surgical technique that is gaining popularity in the United States.
But what exactly is this ‘tweakment’ and why are some medical experts issuing warnings about ‘reptilian skin’ side effects?
Healthline describes mesotherapy as a ‘technique that uses injections of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts to rejuvenate and tighten skin, as well as remove excess fat.’
This procedure, which is considered ‘minimally invasive’, uses very fine needles to inject substances into the middle layer of the skin.
Common areas for these injections include the neck, face, hands, hairline, stomach, and décolletage.
Mesotherapy is primarily utilized by those looking to address various skin, hair, and body concerns.
This versatile rejuvenation method is often employed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, and some use it for fat removal.
However, the American Society for Plastic Surgeons does not endorse mesotherapy for fat removal, citing insufficient research on its effectiveness.
Lately, there has been an increase in people seeking these injections to eliminate dark circles under their eyes, with the procedure claiming to lighten the skin and reduce eye bags.
If you are determined to proceed with the treatment, it is crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare provider first.
Post-injection, patients may experience adverse effects such as redness, tenderness, and bruising.
Some individuals may also notice small raised bumps under the skin, described by some as ‘reptilian like’.
The International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology notes, “Lumps and bumps are probably the most common complication from mesotherapy.”
“These can occur when the solution is distributed unevenly or when the solution is not homogeneous, leading to different effects in various zones.”
“The concentrations can vary when the mix is not homogeneous, causing one area to have completely different materials from an adjacent one.”
Unfortunately, there are more severe risks associated with Mesotherapy.
Infection is a possibility, which could result in long-term tissue death or damage, according to Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist based in New York.
“Patients may experience long-lasting bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis due to product placement in blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage,” she added.
Unlike other injectable treatments such as Botox, Mesotherapy involves practitioners creating their own blend of fluids, meaning the substance is neither regulated nor tested.
“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,” noted Dr. Kazlouskaya.
Dr. Tripathi, a California-based plastic surgeon, emphasized that inexperienced practitioners might cause more harm than good when it comes to Mesotherapy.
“Inexperience can be a problem that creates unsightly results,” he shared with the Daily Mail.
“If someone wants a solution for their under eyes, the treatment has to be tailored based on their particular anatomy. Not all eye bags are created equal.”
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a New York dermatologist, advises understanding the risks associated with Mesotherapy before proceeding with treatment at a local clinic.
“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,” she told the publication.
If you choose not to pursue the non-surgical treatment, there are several methods to address dark circles.
The Cleveland Clinic suggests solutions such as getting more sleep, elevating your head at night, and using cucumber slices on your eyes.
The Mayo Clinic advises those with eye bags to reduce fluid intake before bedtime and apply a cool compress.