Doctors Sound The Alarm On A New Beauty Trend That Leaves People With Reptile-Looking Skin

What you need to know before the needle.

Jesse

• Published in News
• December 20, 2024

In a world obsessed with looking younger, brighter, and flawless, beauty trends evolve faster than most of us can keep up. From bizarre TikTok challenges to non-invasive procedures that promise quick fixes, the pursuit of perfection often comes with a hidden price tag.

It’s no wonder millions are drawn to these seemingly simple solutions; after all, who wouldn’t want to erase dark circles or fine lines with just a few pokes of a needle? But when it comes to beauty, not every trend lives up to its promises—and some might even leave you regretting the journey entirely.

Recently, an eyebrow-raising beauty trend has started making waves: a procedure claiming to brighten under-eye skin and erase eye bags. While it sounds tempting for anyone battling the dreaded “tired look,” there’s a catch.

Experts are warning that this non-surgical treatment, called Mesotherapy, isn’t as harmless as it seems. Some patients are left with strange and alarming side effects—skin that resembles scales or lumps and bumps described as “reptilian-like.”

So, what exactly is Mesotherapy? Why is it skyrocketing in popularity, and what are doctors so concerned about? Buckle up because while the promise of bright eyes may sound dreamy, the reality for some has turned into a bit of a nightmare.

Doctors have shed light on the side effects of Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is no stranger to the beauty world. Healthline defines it as a “technique that uses injections of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and plant extracts. " It has been hailed for rejuvenating skin, tightening sagging areas, and even helping with fat removal.

Mesotherapy sounds versatile and noninvasive—just a few tiny injections beneath the skin, and voila, smoother, brighter results. But there’s a darker side to this so-called “miracle tweakment,” especially for those seeking to lighten their under-eye area.

Specialists warn that improper administration or unregulated substances can lead to uneven results—most commonly described as unsightly “lumps and bumps.” Some patients have reported a chilling effect: skin that resembles reptilian scales.

As one expert put it: When it comes to eye bags, one size definitely doesn’t fit all.

“Lumps and bumps are probably the most common complication from mesotherapy,” notes the International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology. This happens when the solution being injected isn’t evenly distributed or when its composition is inconsistent. Think of it as a patchy paint job—but this one happens to be on your face.

The risks don’t stop at appearances. Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a New York-based dermatologist, highlights even graver complications. “Patients may experience long-lasting bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis due to product placement in blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage."

Adding to the concern is the fact that Mesotherapy lacks the rigorous oversight of treatments like Botox. Practitioners often mix their own unique “cocktails” of substances, leaving plenty of room for error—or worse, exposure to counterfeit products.

Dr. Tripathi, a California-based plastic surgeon, points out that “inexperienced practitioners could cause more harm than good,” especially when dealing with the delicate anatomy of the under-eye area.

A patient sporting puffy welts beneath their eyes. This is a temporary yet unsettling souvenir from the initial injections

While Mesotherapy might seem like a quick fix for tired eyes, experts urge you to consider safer, more evidence-based options.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, catching up on sleep, propping your head up at night, and treating your eyes to a classic cucumber slice spa session can work wonders for tired, puffy under-eyes.

Meanwhile, the Mayo Clinic suggests a nighttime strategy for those battling eye bags: skip the late-night hydration, ease up on fluids before bed, and let a refreshing cool compress save the day (or, rather, your morning reflection).

Remember, beauty enhancements should make you feel confident—not leave you regretting the mirror’s reflection.

Jesse