A decades-old cosmetic procedure is making a dramatic comeback, promising to be a miracle fix for under-eye bags, wrinkles, and stubborn fat. But doctors are warning that the treatment, which leaves people looking like scaly reptiles, can cause irreparable damage, including scarring and blindness.

Mesotherapy might sound futuristic, but it’s far from new. First introduced in 1952 by a French doctor, it was originally intended to “relieve pain.” But today, it’s been rebranded as a fast fix for beauty woes – and it’s exploding in popularity.

“Mesotherapy is a technique that uses injections of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts to rejuvenate and tighten skin, as well as remove excess fat,” Healthline reports of the microneedling procedure. “The idea behind mesotherapy is that it corrects underlying issues like poor circulation and inflammation that cause skin damage.”

The injections often leave tiny bumps, like raised welts, scattered beneath the skin. This can create a honeycomb effect – a lumpy, swollen look that some have compared to the texture of reptile skin. And while the swelling is usually temporary, it’s just the beginning of what can go wrong.

Beauty influencers have flooded social media with videos showing “instant” results, claiming mesotherapy is a safer, more affordable alternative to Botox or fillers. With kits available online for as little as $45, the treatment has become a DIY dream – or nightmare – for users desperate to chase youth and perfection.

Dr. Prem Tripathi, a California-based plastic surgeon, explained that mesotherapy has taken off mainly because it’s inexpensive, simple to perform, and doesn’t require much training – a dangerous combination that’s led to influencers dropping videos of how easy it is to inject at home.

But it’s not necessarily safe – especially when you don’t know what you’re putting into your face, experts warn.

Unlike FDA-approved treatments like Botox or fillers, mesotherapy formulas are unregulated. Each provider uses their own blend, often adding prescription drugs or even questionable substances.

“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,” Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a New York-based dermatologist, told the Daily Mail.

Comparing it to “the multi-billion-dollar supplement industry,” Tripathi also told the outlet that “it’s not regulated, so you sometimes may not know what you’re getting.”

DIY Beauty Side Effects

When it comes to cosmetic procedures, no area is riskier than the space right beneath your eyes, which is incredibly delicate and packed with blood vessels. One wrong move – by an untrained injector or a do-it-yourself kit – and the consequences can be devastating.

“The risks of under-eye mesotherapy go beyond minor side effects, especially when people … ,” Kazlouskaya said.

“Patients may experience long-lasting bruis … .”

There’s also the risk of infection and granulomas, small masses of blood cells and tissues that sprout up when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance.

Flashy Promises

In a world obsessed with perfection and instant results, it’s easy to fall for a flashy promise. But when it comes to your face – and especially your eyes – it’s worth taking a step back. The risks of mesotherapy are real, and the consequences can be permanent.

Before trying any new beauty treatment, especially one involving needles and unregulated substances, consult with a licensed medical professional. Your skin – and your health – are worth more than a viral trend.

Alternatives to Mesotherapy

For those seeking to reduce under-eye bags and wrinkles, safer alternatives include:

Topical Treatments: Eye creams containing caffeine can help constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness.Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress can decrease swelling and shrink dilated blood vessels.

Adequate Sleep: Ensuring sufficient rest can prevent dark circles and puffiness.Healthy Diet: Reducing salt intake and staying hydrated can minimize fluid retention.Professional Procedures: Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist for treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels.

Always prioritize treatments that are backed by scientific research and approved by relevant health authorities.