Doctors warn against beauty trend that causes reptile skin

Promising to be a miraculous solution for under-eye bags, wrinkles, and stubborn fat, a cosmetic procedure that has been around for decades is experiencing a significant resurgence. However, doctors caution that this treatment, which can leave individuals resembling scaly reptiles, may lead to irreversible harm, including scarring and even blindness.

Mesotherapy may sound cutting-edge, but it’s actually quite old. Initially introduced in 1952 by a French physician, it was originally designed to alleviate pain. Nowadays, it has been rebranded as a quick fix for beauty concerns and is rapidly gaining popularity.

According to Healthline, “Mesotherapy is a method that employs injections of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts to rejuvenate and tighten the skin, as well as eliminate excess fat.” The concept behind mesotherapy is that it addresses underlying problems such as poor circulation and inflammation that contribute to skin damage.

The injections often result in small bumps, resembling raised welts, beneath the skin. This can produce a honeycomb appearance – a bumpy, swollen look that some have likened to the texture of reptile skin. While the swelling is typically temporary, it marks just the start of potential complications.

Social media buzz

Beauty influencers have inundated social media with videos showcasing “instant” results, asserting that mesotherapy is a safer, more cost-effective alternative to Botox or fillers. With kits available online for as little as $45, the treatment has turned into a DIY fantasy – or nightmare – for those eager to pursue youth and perfection.

Dr. Prem Tripathi, a plastic surgeon based in California, noted that mesotherapy has gained traction primarily due to its low cost, ease of administration, and minimal training requirements – a perilous mix that has led influencers to share videos demonstrating how simple it is to inject at home.

However, experts warn that it’s not necessarily safe – particularly when you’re unaware of what substances you’re injecting into your face.

Distinct recipes

In contrast to FDA-approved treatments such as Botox or fillers, mesotherapy formulas lack regulation. Each provider creates their own mixture, frequently incorporating prescription medications or even dubious substances.

“Although mesotherapy might be permitted in certain other nations, the lack of regulatory supervision in the US means that patients could be at risk of encountering counterfeit or unverified products,” Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist based in New York, shared with the Daily Mail.

Drawing a parallel to “the multi-billion-dollar supplement industry,” Tripathi also mentioned to the outlet that “it’s not regulated, so you might sometimes be unaware of what you’re receiving.”

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DIY beauty side effects

When it comes to cosmetic procedures, no area poses more risk than the delicate skin beneath your eyes, which is filled with blood vessels. A single mistake – whether from an untrained injector or a DIY kit – can lead to serious consequences.

“The dangers of under-eye mesotherapy extend beyond minor side effects, particularly when individuals seek out inexperienced technicians or attempt this at home,” Kazlouskaya noted.

“Patients might suffer from prolonged bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis from improper product placement in blood vessels, or even irreversible eye damage.”

Additionally, there’s the potential for infection and granulomas, which are small clusters of blood cells and tissues that form when the immune system responds to a foreign substance.

Flashy promises

In a society fixated on perfection and quick results, it’s easy to be lured by a flashy promise – especially when it’s just a click, a swipe, or a syringe away. However, mesotherapy isn’t always the miracle it’s portrayed to be.

Beneath the filtered images and viral clips lies a growing number of real individuals dealing with actual bruises, painful reactions, and in the most severe cases, lasting damage.

Before you place your trust in a trending treatment for your appearance – or your health – make sure to do your homework and consult a qualified expert. And keep in mind that looking good is never worth jeopardizing everything.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this unusual rejuvenation method!