This article was authored by Vanessa Ngan in 2005 and later updated by Dr. Ebtisam Elghblawi, a dermatologist from Tripoli, Libya. The DermNet Editor in Chief is A/Prof Amanda Oakley, a dermatologist from Hamilton, New Zealand, and the update was made in October 2018.
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Mesotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting small amounts of pharmaceutical and homeopathic medications, plant extracts, vitamins, and other ingredients directly into the skin’s middle layer. This technique is believed to help break down fat cells, stimulate collagen production, improve blood circulation, and promote overall skin rejuvenation.
While mesotherapy has been used for various cosmetic and medical purposes, its effectiveness and safety have been a subject of debate. Some practitioners claim positive results in reducing cellulite, sculpting the body, and treating skin conditions, while others raise concerns about potential side effects, such as infection, allergic reactions, and skin irregularities.
Before considering mesotherapy, individuals should consult with a qualified healthcare professional to understand the potential risks and benefits associated with this procedure. It is essential to research the credentials of the practitioner, inquire about the ingredients used in the injections, and discuss realistic expectations and post-treatment care.
Despite its popularity in certain regions, mesotherapy remains a controversial treatment in the medical community, and more research is needed to determine its long-term effects and safety profile. As with any cosmetic or medical procedure, individuals should prioritize their health and well-being when exploring options for fat removal and body contouring.
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This procedure involves injecting substances under the skin into fat tissue. The components used depend on the practitioner’s mixture. The benefits include improved collagen production, skin thickness, hydration, and softness.
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Since mesotherapy is administered directly to the target area, the side effects are minimal. Reported adverse effects may include the breakdown of fat cells and unknown impacts on organs and tissues, highlighting the need for further research.
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Despite the limited scientific evidence supporting mesotherapy, it offers several advantages over surgical procedures like liposuction. Mesotherapy is non-surgical, minimally painful, has fewer complications, shorter downtime, and is more cost-effective. In contrast, liposuction is the only proven method for fat removal.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess fat through suction. It is often used for body contouring and shaping.
Mesotherapy involves the injection of substances like hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and minerals into the skin to nourish and rejuvenate it. These injections help improve circulation, enhance skin tone, reduce imperfections, and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Hyaluronic acid, in particular, helps to add volume, reduce sagging, fine lines, and dehydration in the skin.
While mesotherapy primarily targets signs of skin aging like hydration, sagging, fine lines, pigmentation, swelling, and dark circles, it can also be used to address other issues such as hair loss, stretch marks, and acne-prone skin. The versatility of mesotherapy makes it a popular choice for a variety of cosmetic concerns.
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Mesotherapy is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a series of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids into the middle layer of the skin. This treatment can help stimulate collagen production, improve circulation, and rejuvenate the skin from within.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, mesotherapy can also target specific skin concerns such as acne scars, stretch marks, and cellulite. The procedure is often used in combination with other anti-aging treatments to enhance results and achieve a more youthful appearance.
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Due to its minimally invasive nature, mesotherapy is suitable for individuals of all ages and genders. It can be used in young individuals to slow down the signs of aging.
Prior to the procedure, a consultation is conducted to determine the patient’s needs, expectations, and desires. All makeup and cosmetics are removed, an anesthetic cream is applied, followed by multiple injections and antibiotic cream.
Possible hemorrhages may occur at the injection sites, with slight swelling immediately after the procedure, but it is not typically painful.
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Visible effects, such as smoother fine lines and toned skin, can be seen right after mesotherapy, with the final results becoming apparent 3-4 days after the swelling subsides.
For maximum effectiveness, 4-6 procedures are typically performed every few months to a year.
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Mesotherapy should not be performed on individuals with active inflammation, allergies, or unrealistic expectations.
Non-injection mesotherapy rejuvenates the skin using vitamins and medicinal substances without the need for needles. It helps combat aging, dryness, acne, and pigmentation spots.
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Non-injection mesotherapy utilizes ultrasound instead of needles for individuals who prefer to avoid injections or have contraindications. This non-invasive technique delivers active ingredients deep into the skin using high-frequency ultrasound waves, stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity. It is a safe and effective alternative to traditional mesotherapy injections, with minimal discomfort and downtime.
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Mesococktails are a popular cosmetic treatment that involves injecting a combination of ingredients directly into the skin using microinjections. These cocktails typically contain hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate and plump the skin, vitamin C and A for their antioxidant properties, glutathione peptides to brighten the complexion, amino acids to support skin health, plant extracts for their soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits, enzymes to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, and glycolic acid to help with cell turnover and improve skin texture.
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Methods like cryogenic, laser, ultrasonic, magnetic, and ion emitters are employed to deliver active ingredients deep into the skin layers. Different types of non-injection facial mesotherapy procedures are also available.
| Facial Mesotherapy Categories | How It Works | Advantages and Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Oxygen |
| Experience the benefits of a unique blend combined with pure oxygen |
| Boosts skin cell respiration and helps active ingredients penetrate deeper |
Iontophoresis Benefits |
| Galvanic Current Application |
| Enhanced Absorption of Medicinal Substances |
| Hydro Electroporation |
| Utilizing Electromagnetic Waves |
| Enhances cell permeability, enabling the dermis to absorb larger molecules |
| Aquaphoresis |
| Utilizing a blend of electronic and laser impulses along with methods for enhancing lymphatic drainage |
| Boosting the body’s metabolic functions, resulting in enhanced moisture levels and flexibility of the skin |
| Magnetophoresis |
| Utilizing magnetic fields |
| Enhances the permeability of cell membranes, boosts blood microcirculation, and facilitates lymph drainage |
When comparing the non-injection facial mesotherapy method to the injection technique, it is found to be less effective, requiring more procedures and maintenance sessions to achieve the desired results. However, the long-term outcomes for both methods are similar.
General information about the procedure
- Stages of Laser mesotherapy with Lase MD
- Post-procedure Rehabilitation
- Indications and Contraindications
Laser mesotherapy stages Lase MD
Non-injection facial mesotherapy with Lase MD includes the following steps:
- Initial consultation and personalized treatment plan based on skin analysis
- Skin cleansing and gentle peeling if needed
- Preparation of customized mesotherapy composition for skin issues
- Laser creation of dermal channels for application of active serums
- Application of specific serums for skin hydration and care
- Closing microchannels and reducing redness
- Application of soothing creams or masks
Rehabilitation after the procedure
Following laser non-injection mesotherapy with Lase MD, it is advised to:
- Avoid immediate use of cosmetics
- Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen
- Avoid intense physical activities and sauna visits
- Use moisturizers and creams with vitamins C and E
- Avoid peels and injections for a few weeks
Avoid alcohol consumption for faster healing post-procedure.
Indications and contraindications for non-injection mesotherapy
Non-injection mesotherapy effectively addresses various skin issues such as:
- Loss of skin tone and elasticity
- Dryness, wrinkles, and rosacea
- Acne, enlarged pores, dark circles, puffiness, and spots
- Edema, scars, stretch marks, cellulite, and hair problems
The success of this method depends on the mesococtail composition and device used, providing a needle-free and painless session.
It is important to consult a cosmetologist before undergoing hardware non-injection mesotherapy due to specific contraindications.
Contraindications include allergies, skin conditions, immune disorders, and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
This article is covered under a Creative Commons license, permitting unrestricted use with proper attribution.
Abstract
Mesotherapy involves injections of various compounds for medical and aesthetic purposes. While cost-effective and minimally invasive, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited.
Keywords: Body sculpting, cellulite, injection lipolysis, intradermotherapy, nappage
INTRODUCTION
Mesotherapy employs injections of compounds for medical and aesthetic treatments. It offers quick results with minimal discomfort, but lacks robust scientific validation.
Mesotherapy treatments typically involve a series of injections into the mesoderm, the middle layer of skin. The injections may contain a variety of substances, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes, tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
While mesotherapy has been popular in Europe for several decades, it is still considered a controversial treatment in some medical circles. Critics argue that more research is needed to support its effectiveness and safety.
HISTORY
Introduced in 1952, mesotherapy, which involves injections of compounds for medical conditions, offers immediate relief, though scientific studies on its efficacy are scarce.
Dr. Pistor coined the term ‘mesotherapy’ in 1958, defining it as mesoderm treatment. The technique gained global popularity, especially in Europe, South America, the United States, and Asia. Mesotherapy was recognized as a medical specialty by the French National Academy of Medicine in 1987. Dr. Pistor, known as the ‘Father of Mesotherapy,’ established the French Society of Mesotherapy in 1964.
Mesotherapists use FDA-approved drugs off-label, sparking debates. Despite controversies, mesotherapy continues to flourish. Evidence supports its use for pain relief, including conditions like fibromyalgia, gout, headaches, and sports injuries. Commonly used drugs include NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and vasodilators.
In cosmetic dermatology, mesotherapy is employed for fat reduction, skin rejuvenation, body shaping, and cellulite treatment. The process entails injecting substances like phosphatidylcholine, amino acids, and vitamins that target fat cells, enhance skin firmness, and improve overall skin quality.
Mesotherapy also extends to treat conditions such as skin photoaging, alopecia, and supporting in-vitro fertilization. The formulations used vary based on the treated condition, targeting circulatory, neuro-vegetative, and immunological skin functions to correct functional disorders.
Each mesotherapy session involves multiple injections at specific sites, employing different techniques ranging from deep to superficial injections. The number of sessions needed depends on the condition’s severity, with maintenance sessions recommended for chronic issues.
ADVERSE EFFECTS[26,27]
![ADVERSE EFFECTS[26,27]](https://img.freepik.com/free-photo/medium-shot-woman-putting-glove_23-2149313505.jpg?semt=ais_hybrid&w=740)
Reportedly, side effects after mesotherapy are rare, especially when performed by experienced professionals. If they occur, they are generally mild. Despite the numerous injections involved in mesotherapy, the main reason for the infrequent adverse effects is the much smaller dose used compared to modern medicine.
Common non-specific side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mild pain, skin hyperesthesia, swelling, itching, redness, and painful subcutaneous nodules at the injection site.
Pigmentation issues may include hyperpigmentation post-inflammation and urticaria pigmentosa, which can persist for months and be bothersome, though not serious. Rare cases of skin and full-thickness fat necrosis have also been reported.
Hypersensitive reactions, such as immediate or delayed (especially to hyaluronidase, collagenase), itching, and maculopapular rash away from the treated area (allergy to phosphatidylcholine), have also been noted.
Specific side effects due to individual components like isoproterenol, yohimbine, aminophylline, anxiety, tremors, palpitations, muscle cramps due to potassium release, phosphatidylcholine-induced mild pneumonitis, temporary elevation of ALT levels, are known.
Side effects due to faulty techniques include localized infections, scars, and subcutaneous nodules. Recently, there have been reports of skin infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria, presenting as nodules and draining abscesses due to improper aseptic measures, occurring 1 to 12 weeks after the procedure. The risk of infection transmission (HIV, HBV, HCV, etc.) applies to all procedures penetrating intact skin, besides unknown long-term local and systemic effects.
CONTRAINDICATIONS[29]
Contraindications to mesotherapy include a body mass index over 30, known hypersensitivity to any of the components, age under 18, pregnancy, lactation, patients on anticoagulants, and individuals with heart medications (such as amiodarone, hydralazine, calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers), conditions like insulin-dependent diabetes, liver and kidney impairment, HIV, seizure disorders, and lupus.
FLIPSIDE
Any new technique/therapy or, more importantly, medication will be accepted (depending on the indication) if it is more effective or safer, ideally both, and importantly, cost-effective. The essence of mesotherapy lies in the lack of rigorous scientific studies comparing it to existing gold-standard therapy methods for a given condition. To date, there is insufficient information on the effectiveness, mechanism of action, and long-term consequences of mesotherapy. Even the few available pieces of evidence have low reliability or are inconclusive. We may need to await such research to establish mesotherapy as a standard therapy method.
Approximately 16,000 American physicians incorporate mesotherapy into their routine medical practice, with an increase of 300 trained physicians per month in mesotherapy. The launch of a specialized journal (American Journal of Mesotherapy), establishment of clinics in renowned hospitals, the rise of mesotherapy centers worldwide, and numerous international conferences indicate its status. The American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine is a leading organization advocating for quality physician education and conducting professional accreditation for obtaining a mesotherapy certificate. Thus, mesotherapy is gaining popularity as a specialized field among therapists and the public at a rapid pace.
The needle of evidence oscillates between safety and effectiveness on one side and popularity on the other, floating through uncertain and disputed areas. Optimists will find solace in the often repeated quote, “The absence of evidence is not evidence of absence, and the lack of scientific validation is not proof that it does not work.”
Attempts to obtain permission to reproduce images of “before and after mesotherapy treatment” for clinical conditions have not received responses from stakeholders. However, readers can find such photos on Google Images by entering relevant keywords.
Acknowledgments
I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Ratinder and Dr. Nandita for their valuable insights, and Dr. Manikandan for assistance in literature search.
Footnotes
Source of support: None
Conflict of interest: Not declared
REFERENCES
Articles from the Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy are provided here with the permission of Wolters Kluwer – Medknow Publications