Credit: @labellecosmetics_/TikTok
Doctor Warns Against Dangerous Trend That Leaves People Looking Like ‘Reptiles’
Doctors are issuing a warning against a dangerous trend that can leave people looking like ‘reptiles.’
Medical professionals are sharing their concerns regarding a decades-old cosmetic procedure that has recently reignited in popularity.
It involves injecting a mixture of vitamins and minerals beneath the skin using fine needles and is marketed as a way to smooth wrinkles, reduce fat, and eliminate under-eye bags.
It can be performed on various areas of the body, including the stomach and hands, though it is most commonly used under the eyes.
The procedure was initially developed in France in 1952 to address vascular and immune disorders – but now, it’s gained traction in the United States as an aesthetic treatment.
The procedure may result in temporary side effects, including small, raised bumps on the skin immediately after injection, creating a ‘honeycomb-like’ texture.
Such side effects, which have been described as ‘reptilian,’ generally fade; however, doctors still caution against the procedure.
Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a dermatologist based in New York, told MailOnline: “Patients may experience long-lasting bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis due to product placement in blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage.”
An additional risk arises from the lack of standardization in the substances used.
Unlike FDA-regulated treatments such as Botox, the formulas used are often unique to each practitioner and may include unverified or counterfeit products.
Some formulations even include prescription medications such as antibiotics or vasodilators, according to DermNet.
Companies sell solutions online for prices ranging from $45 to $349, making it an accessible but potentially risky option.
Dr. Tripathi, a California-based plastic surgeon, also pointed out how the simplicity of the technique has contributed to its widespread use, commenting: “It’s cheap, easy to do, and takes little training to perform.”
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have fueled the trend, with some users attempting the procedure on themselves.
But as Dr. Tripathi warns: “However, inexperience can lead to complications, such as granulomas (immune reactions forming lumps under the skin), infections, or scarring.”
The procedure in question is called mesotherapy, it involves injecting a blend of vitamins, enzymes, hormones, and other nutrients under the skin.
The FDA has not approved any specific mesotherapy formulations or protocols for cosmetic use on the face.
While individual ingredients might be FDA-approved, there’s no regulation of the complete formulas.
Dr. Tripathi likened this to the unregulated supplement industry: “Just like the multi-billion dollar supplement industry, it’s not regulated, so you sometimes may not know what you’re getting.”
Under-eye issues vary widely based on individual anatomy and underlying causes, such as fat migration, pigmentation, or thinning skin.
Although mesotherapy may theoretically help with hollowing under the eyes, studies have yet to confirm its effectiveness, per PubMed.
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a New York dermatologist, stressed the importance of identifying the root cause before pursuing any treatment.
She said: “As a dermatologist, I always emphasize the importance of a tailored approach to addressing dark circles, starting with identifying the underlying cause and exploring evidence-based options that provide safe and predictable results.”
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