Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment that involves injecting small amounts of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants or other active ingredients into the mesoderm, the middle layer of the skin. The technique uses multiple micro-injections delivered just below the skin's surface to target specific concerns. Mesotherapy can be used for various purposes including facial rejuvenation, skin hydration, hair loss treatment, cellulite reduction and body contouring. The cocktail of ingredients is tailored to address specific concerns, whether that is improving skin quality and radiance, stimulating collagen production, promoting hair growth or reducing localised fat deposits. The treatment is popular in Europe and has gained traction elsewhere as a non-surgical option for skin and body enhancement. Results and effectiveness vary depending on the area being treated, the specific ingredients used, individual response and the skill of the practitioner.

Mesotherapy for the face, often called skin boosting or mesolifting, involves injecting a customised blend of vitamins, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, minerals and other nourishing ingredients into the facial skin. The treatment aims to improve overall skin quality by deeply hydrating, stimulating collagen and elastin production, improving circulation and delivering concentrated nutrients directly where they are needed. Facial mesotherapy can address concerns such as dullness, dehydration, fine lines, uneven texture, enlarged pores, loss of radiance and early signs of ageing. The injections are typically delivered using a very fine needle or mesotherapy gun across the face, creating a superficial pattern of micro-injections. Unlike dermal fillers that add volume or shape, facial mesotherapy focuses on improving skin health and quality from within. A course of several treatments spaced 1 to 4 weeks apart is usually recommended, with visible improvements in skin hydration, glow and texture becoming apparent after a few sessions. Results are generally subtle and natural-looking, with the aim of refreshed, healthier-looking skin rather than dramatic transformation.

The term mesotherapy comes from 'meso', referring to the mesoderm or middle layer of the skin, and 'therapy', meaning treatment. It describes a technique of delivering therapeutic substances directly into the mesodermal layer through multiple small injections. The treatment was developed in France in the 1950s by Dr Michel Pistor, who used the method to treat various medical conditions before it evolved into an aesthetic treatment. In mesotherapy, active ingredients are injected into the target tissue rather than being applied topically or taken orally, which allows for more direct delivery and potentially better absorption of beneficial substances. The concept is based on delivering small amounts of therapeutic agents precisely where they are needed, whether that is the skin for rejuvenation, the scalp for hair loss or specific body areas for contouring or cellulite treatment. Today, mesotherapy encompasses a range of injection-based treatments using various formulations tailored to specific concerns and treatment areas.

The longevity of mesotherapy results varies significantly depending on the specific treatment type, the area being treated, the ingredients used and individual factors. For facial mesotherapy focused on skin hydration and quality, results typically last 3 to 6 months, with some people experiencing benefits for up to 9 months. Most practitioners recommend an initial course of 3 to 6 sessions spaced 1 to 4 weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments every 3 to 6 months to sustain results. For hair loss mesotherapy, multiple sessions are usually needed, and maintenance treatments may be required every few months to support ongoing hair growth. Body mesotherapy for cellulite or fat reduction may require more frequent sessions initially, with periodic maintenance depending on lifestyle and goals. Because mesotherapy works by stimulating natural processes like collagen production and cellular regeneration rather than simply adding temporary volume, some of the benefits can have longer-lasting effects. However, the natural ageing process continues, so results are not permanent. Factors that influence how long results last include age, lifestyle, diet, skincare routine, sun protection, stress levels and whether you maintain regular treatments.

It is generally recommended to wait at least 1 to 2 weeks, and ideally 2 to 4 weeks, after microneedling before having mesotherapy, though the exact timing depends on the depth of your microneedling treatment and how quickly your skin heals. Both treatments create controlled injury to the skin to stimulate healing and rejuvenation, so performing them too close together can overburden the skin, increase the risk of complications such as irritation, inflammation or infection, and potentially interfere with optimal results from either treatment. Microneedling creates thousands of tiny channels in the skin that need time to heal and for the collagen remodelling process to begin. Introducing mesotherapy injections before this healing is complete could disrupt the process and stress the skin unnecessarily. Your skin should be fully healed, with no redness, sensitivity or flaking, before proceeding with mesotherapy. Some practitioners may have different protocols or may combine treatments in specific ways, so always follow your practitioner's professional advice. If you are planning both treatments, discuss the optimal timing and sequencing during your consultation to ensure the best possible outcome while minimising risks.

It is generally recommended to avoid wearing makeup for at least 12 to 24 hours after mesotherapy treatment, and ideally longer if possible, to minimise the risk of infection or irritation. Mesotherapy creates multiple tiny puncture wounds in the skin, which act as entry points where bacteria from makeup products, brushes or your hands could potentially cause infection or inflammation. Your skin will also be sensitive, potentially red and slightly swollen immediately after treatment, and applying makeup could further irritate it. If you absolutely must wear makeup, wait at least 12 hours and use only clean, freshly sanitised applicators with mineral-based or non-comedogenic products that are less likely to clog pores or cause reactions. Avoid heavy foundations or products with potential irritants. For the first 24 to 48 hours after mesotherapy, your skincare routine should be minimal and gentle, using only products recommended by your practitioner. Most people experience some redness and small injection marks that usually settle within a day or two, so it is worth planning your treatment for a time when you can avoid wearing makeup for at least 24 hours. Always follow your practitioner's specific aftercare instructions, as recommendations may vary depending on the treatment area, ingredients used and your individual skin sensitivity.

Before mesotherapy, people often have concerns depending on the treatment area: facial mesotherapy patients may experience dull, dehydrated or tired-looking skin, fine lines, uneven texture, enlarged pores or loss of radiance; hair mesotherapy candidates typically notice thinning hair, increased shedding, loss of density or visible scalp showing through; body mesotherapy patients may be concerned about cellulite, localised fat deposits or skin laxity. After completing a course of mesotherapy treatments, usually between 3 to 6 sessions over several weeks to months, results vary by treatment type and individual response. For facial mesotherapy, the skin typically appears more hydrated, plump and radiant, with improved texture, softer fine lines and a healthy glow. For hair mesotherapy, some people experience reduced shedding, increased hair density, thicker individual hair strands and improved scalp health, though results vary significantly and hair loss may not be completely reversed. For body mesotherapy, there may be subtle improvement in skin texture, reduced appearance of cellulite or mild contouring effects, though these results tend to be modest. All mesotherapy results are generally subtle and natural-looking rather than dramatic, developing gradually over the treatment course. Immediately after each session, the treated area will show small injection marks, redness and possibly swelling, which typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Final results should be assessed several weeks after completing the full treatment course, and maintenance sessions are usually needed to sustain benefits. Your practitioner should provide realistic before and after examples specific to the type of mesotherapy you are considering to help set appropriate expectations.