Mesotherapy is a medical aesthetic treatment in which active components such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and hyaluronic acid are injected with micro-needles into the middle layer of the skin (mesoderm). Developed in France in 1952 by Dr. Michel Pistor, this method is now widely used around the world in many fields including skin rejuvenation, hair loss treatment, cellulite reduction and body contouring.
Mesotherapy is one of the fastest-growing non-invasive (non-surgical) aesthetic procedures. In this guide you will find detailed information on mesotherapy types, application techniques, pricing and frequently asked questions.
History and Scientific Basis of Mesotherapy
The term mesotherapy is derived from the Greek words "mesos" (middle) and "therapeia" (treatment). In 1952, French physician Dr. Michel Pistor observed that when he injected a local anaesthetic (procaine) subcutaneously instead of intravenously, his patient's hearing loss improved. Building on this discovery, he formally defined mesotherapy in 1958.
Pistor's famous principle of "little, rarely, in the right place" (peu, rarement, au bon endroit) still forms the fundamental philosophy of mesotherapy today. In 1987, the French Academy of Medicine formally recognised mesotherapy as a specialised branch of medicine.
Key statistics:
- More than 1.5 million mesotherapy sessions are performed worldwide each year
- More than 15,000 physicians in France actively use mesotherapy
- Patient satisfaction rates average between 85–92%
- Average session duration is 15–30 minutes with immediate return to daily life
Mesotherapy Types: Comparative Table
Mesotherapy is divided into different types depending on the area of application and its purpose. The following table presents each mesotherapy type comparatively in terms of cocktail content, average session count and targeted outcome.
| Mesotherapy Type | Cocktail Content | Sessions | Session Interval | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Mesotherapy | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, glutathione, peptides | 4–6 sessions | 2–4 weeks | Skin renewal, radiance, moisturisation |
| Hair Mesotherapy | Biotin, dexpanthenol, zinc, amino acids, minoxidil | 6–10 sessions | 1–2 weeks | Hair loss, strengthening |
| Cellulite Mesotherapy | L-carnitine, phosphatidylcholine, caffeine, organic silicon | 8–12 sessions | 1–2 weeks | Cellulite reduction, tightening |
| Under-Eye Mesotherapy | Light HA, vitamin C, peptides, arginine | 3–5 sessions | 2–3 weeks | Dark circles, puffiness reduction |
| Body Mesotherapy | Phosphatidylcholine, L-carnitine, aminophylline | 8–15 sessions | 1–2 weeks | Localised fat reduction, tightening |
> Virtuana Clinic note: Dr. Abdülmelik Dönmez prepares a personalised cocktail for each patient to maximise treatment efficacy.
Skin Mesotherapy (Mezolifting): A Detailed Look
Skin mesotherapy is the most popular type of mesotherapy, applied to the face, neck and décolleté to achieve deep skin moisturisation and renewal. In the literature it is also referred to as "mezolifting" or "mezoglow".
Who Is Skin Mesotherapy Applied To?
- Those with dry and dull skin complaints
- Those who want to reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Those experiencing loss of skin elasticity
- Those troubled by a dull and tired skin appearance
- People with enlarged pores
- Individuals with skin damaged by smoking or sun exposure
Active Substances Used in Skin Mesotherapy
- Hyaluronic acid (HA): Deeply moisturises and plumps the skin by retaining up to 1,000 times its own weight in water
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): As a powerful antioxidant, it increases collagen synthesis and prevents pigmentation
- Glutathione: Brightens the skin and combats hyperpigmentation
- Peptides: Stimulate collagen and elastin production, increasing skin firmness
- Vitamin B complex: Accelerates cell renewal
Expected Results from Skin Mesotherapy
A visible increase in radiance and moisture is noticeable from the first session. After 3–4 sessions, a significant reduction in wrinkles, evening of skin tone and improvement in elasticity are observed. Results last 6–12 months and this period can be extended with 2–3 annual maintenance sessions.
Hair Mesotherapy: An Effective Solution for Hair Loss
Hair mesotherapy is a treatment method in which special cocktails containing vitamins, minerals and amino acids are applied to the scalp via micro-injections, with the goal of stopping hair loss and promoting new hair growth.
How Does Hair Mesotherapy Work?
The active substances injected in hair mesotherapy reach directly to the hair roots (follicles), producing the following effects:
- Increases blood circulation: Widening of micro-vessels in the scalp carries more oxygen and nutrients to the follicles
- Blocks DHT (dihydrotestosterone): Reduces the effect of DHT, the primary cause of androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern hair loss)
- Provides stem cell activation: Stimulates dormant (telogen phase) hair follicles to initiate a new hair growth cycle
- Strengthens the hair shaft: Increases keratin production, resolving brittleness and thinning
Ingredients Used in Hair Mesotherapy
- Biotin (vitamin B7): The main building block of keratin production
- Dexpanthenol (vitamin B5): Moisturises and heals the scalp
- Zinc: Supports repair of the tissue surrounding the hair follicle
- Amino acids (cysteine, methionine): Essential building blocks for keratin synthesis
- Minoxidil: Increases blood flow through vasodilatory effect
- Finasteride: Added in some cases for DHT blockade
Hair Mesotherapy vs PRP Treatment: Comparison Table
Both treatments are effective against hair loss and work through different mechanisms. The following table will help you decide which is more appropriate for you.
| Feature | Hair Mesotherapy | PRP Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | External vitamin and mineral supplementation | Growth factors from patient's own blood |
| Content | Vitamin, mineral, amino acid cocktail | Platelet-rich plasma (autologous) |
| Sessions | 6–10 sessions | 4–6 sessions |
| Session duration | 15–20 minutes | 45–60 minutes |
| Allergy risk | Low (depends on cocktail content) | Very low (own blood is used) |
| First results | Sessions 3–4 | Sessions 2–3 |
| Result durability | 6–8 months | 8–12 months |
| Combined use | Can be applied with PRP | Can be applied with mesotherapy |
> Important: At Virtuana Clinic, mesotherapy and PRP are frequently applied in combination for hair loss treatment. This combination shows 30–40% higher efficacy compared to either treatment used alone.
Cellulite Mesotherapy
Cellulite mesotherapy is a treatment method applied especially to reduce cellulite in the buttocks, hips and upper thighs, help break down subcutaneous fat tissue, and firm the skin.
Mechanism of Action of Cellulite Mesotherapy
- Lipolytic agents (phosphatidylcholine, deoxycholate): Break down the fat cell membrane, allowing fatty acids to be released
- L-carnitine: Facilitates the burning of released fatty acids as energy in the mitochondria
- Caffeine: Stimulates microcirculation, accelerates lymphatic drainage
- Organic silicon: Strengthens connective tissue, increases skin elasticity
Cellulite Grades and Treatment Response
| Grade | Appearance | Mesotherapy Response | Recommended Sessions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Visible only when compressed | Very good response | 6–8 sessions |
| Grade 2 | Visible when standing | Good response | 8–10 sessions |
| Grade 3 | Visible in all positions | Moderate response | 10–15 sessions |
| Grade 4 | Painful, nodular cellulite | Limited response, combined treatment required | 15+ sessions |
Cellulite mesotherapy yields the best results when supported by regular exercise and balanced nutrition. Permanent cellulite treatment is not possible with mesotherapy alone; lifestyle changes are essential.
Mesotherapy vs Youth Vaccine Comparison
Mesotherapy and youth vaccine (profhilo, skin booster) are two different treatments that are frequently confused. The following table clarifies the differences between them.
| Feature | Mesotherapy | Youth Vaccine |
|---|---|---|
| Content | Vitamin, mineral, amino acid, HA mixture | High-concentration pure hyaluronic acid |
| HA concentration | Low–moderate (usually non-cross-linked) | High (32–64 mg/ml, cross-linked or hybrid) |
| Application depth | Superficial–mid dermis (1–4 mm) | Deep dermis (BAP points or microbolus) |
| Injections per session | 50–200+ micro-injections | 5–10 strategic points |
| Sessions | 4–6 sessions | 2–3 sessions |
| Primary effect | Skin nourishment, moisturisation, vitaminisation | Deep hydration, bio-remodelling, collagen stimulation |
| Ideal age range | 25+ (prevention and maintenance) | 30+ (when signs of ageing begin) |
| Result durability | 3–6 months | 6–12 months |
How Is Mesotherapy Applied? Techniques and Methods
There are three main techniques used in mesotherapy application. The method is determined according to the purpose of the treatment, the area and the patient's needs.
1. Application with Mesogun (Mesotherapy Gun)
Mesogun is an automatic injection device. Needle depth, injection speed and substance amount can be adjusted digitally.
- Advantages: Homogeneous distribution, fast application, standardised depth
- Disadvantages: High device cost, limited use in sensitive areas (around the eye)
- Application area: Large facial areas, scalp, body treatments
2. Manual (Hand) Technique
The classical method in which an experienced physician controls the syringe by hand.
- Advantages: Superior control in sensitive areas (under-eye, lip area), flexible depth adjustment
- Disadvantages: Dependence on physician experience, longer application time
- Application area: Sensitive areas such as around the eye and lip margins
3. Nappage Technique
A technique involving many rapid and superficial (1–2 mm) injections on the skin surface. The name comes from the French word "nappe" meaning "cover".
- Advantages: Covers large areas quickly, ideal for skin radiance
- Disadvantages: May be insufficient in situations requiring deep treatment
- Application area: Skin renewal, superficial moisturisation, mezolifting
Application Steps (In Order)
- Consultation: Patient complaints are assessed, skin analysis is performed
- Cleansing: Application area is cleaned with antiseptic solution
- Anaesthesia (optional): Topical anaesthetic cream is applied in sensitive areas (20–30 minutes before)
- Cocktail preparation: Patient-specific mesotherapy mixture is prepared
- Injection: Cocktail is injected using the selected technique (mesogun, manual or nappage)
- Post-treatment care: Soothing cream or mask is applied to the treatment area
How Many Sessions Are Needed? Session Table by Type
The number of mesotherapy sessions varies depending on the area being treated, the severity of the problem and the patient's individual response. The following table serves as a general guide.
| Treatment Type | Initial Sessions | Session Interval | Maintenance Sessions | Total Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin mesotherapy (face) | 4–6 sessions | 2–4 weeks | 2–3 sessions/year | 2–4 months |
| Hair mesotherapy | 6–10 sessions | 1–2 weeks | 1 session/month (3–6 months) | 3–6 months |
| Cellulite mesotherapy | 8–12 sessions | 1–2 weeks | 1 session/month | 3–6 months |
| Under-eye mesotherapy | 3–5 sessions | 2–3 weeks | 2–3 sessions/year | 1.5–3 months |
| Body tightening | 8–15 sessions | 1–2 weeks | 4–6 sessions/year | 3–6 months |
| Neck–décolleté | 4–6 sessions | 2–4 weeks | 2–3 sessions/year | 2–4 months |
| Hand rejuvenation | 3–4 sessions | 2–4 weeks | 2 sessions/year | 1.5–3 months |
What Is in the Mesotherapy Cocktail?
The mesotherapy cocktail is a specially prepared mixture combining multiple active substances according to the purpose of treatment. Here are the most commonly used components:
Main Components
Hyaluronic Acid (HA):
A glycosaminoglycan naturally found in the skin that retains up to 1,000 times its own weight in water. It gives the skin plumpness, moisture and flexibility. It is generally used in non-cross-linked form in mesotherapy cocktails.
Vitamins:
- Vitamin C: Antioxidant, collagen synthesis, pigmentation correction
- Vitamin A (retinol): Cell renewal, anti-ageing
- Vitamin E: Antioxidant, skin barrier strengthening
- Vitamin B complex: Energy metabolism, cell repair
- B7 (biotin): Hair and nail strengthening
Minerals:
- Zinc: Wound healing, sebum control
- Selenium: Antioxidant defence
- Copper: Collagen and elastin synthesis
- Magnesium: Muscle relaxation, cellular energy
Amino Acids:
- Proline and lysine: Critical role in collagen production
- Cysteine and methionine: Keratin synthesis (hair treatment)
- Arginine: Increases blood circulation
Peptides:
Short-chain amino acid sequences that send specific signals to cells. Anti-ageing peptides such as palmitoyl tripeptide and acetyl hexapeptide directly stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Additional Components by Treatment
- Lipolytic agents (phosphatidylcholine, deoxycholate): Cellulite and localised fat treatment
- Caffeine: Microcirculation stimulant, lipolysis support
- Glutathione: Skin brightening and illuminating
- Tranexamic acid: In pigmentation and melasma treatment
- Minoxidil: Vasodilatory effect in hair loss treatment
Mesotherapy Side Effects
Mesotherapy is generally a safe and well-tolerated treatment. Serious side effects are quite rare. However, as with any medical aesthetic procedure, some temporary effects may be seen.
Common Temporary Side Effects
- Redness: Mild redness at the injection site, usually disappears within a few hours
- Swelling (oedema): Mild swelling may last 1–2 days
- Bruising (ecchymosis): Small bruises may occur, disappearing within 3–7 days
- Pain and tenderness: Mild tenderness at injection points lasting 24–48 hours
- Itching: Temporary itching may be felt in the treatment area
Rare Side Effects
- Infection: Infection at injection points may develop if sterile conditions are not maintained
- Hyperpigmentation: Temporary darkening of skin colour
- Granuloma: Small nodules at injection sites (very rare)
- Allergic reaction: Allergy to cocktail content (prior testing is recommended)
> Safety note: The majority of these side effects resolve spontaneously within 1–3 days and do not require additional treatment. All procedures at Virtuana Clinic are performed in a sterile environment using Ministry of Health-approved products.
Who Should Not Have Mesotherapy? (Contraindications)
Although mesotherapy is a safe procedure, in some circumstances it should absolutely not be applied. Here is the complete list of mesotherapy contraindications:
Absolute Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Insulin-dependent diabetes (Type 1 diabetes)
- Patients undergoing cancer treatment (active malignancy)
- Those with blood clotting disorders (haemophilia etc.)
- Those using anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medication
- Autoimmune diseases (lupus, scleroderma etc.)
- Active skin infection in the application area (herpes, shingles etc.)
- Known allergy to cocktail components
- Severe liver or kidney failure
- Individuals under 18 years of age
Relative Contraindications (Requiring Careful Evaluation)
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Epilepsy patients
- Tendency to form keloids
- During active acne or rosacea flare-ups
- Those receiving immunosuppressive therapy
> Important: Before the procedure, the physician performs a detailed evaluation of the patient's medical history to determine the suitability of mesotherapy. You must disclose all medications you are taking and any known allergies.
Factors Affecting Mesotherapy Pricing
Mesotherapy pricing varies according to many variables. Please contact us for current pricing information.
Key Factors Determining Price
- Application area: Face, hair, body or cellulite treatment are priced differently
- Cocktail content: The brand and components of the product used directly affect the price
- Number of sessions: Per-session cost generally decreases with package purchases
- Physician expertise: Experienced and certified physicians charge higher fees
- Clinic location: Prices are relatively higher in major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara
- Equipment and technology used: Mesogun quality and sterilisation standards
> Note: Due to Ministry of Health regulations, exact pricing cannot be published on the website. For current pricing information and a personalised treatment plan, you can contact Virtuana Clinic for a free consultation appointment.
Before and After Mesotherapy: What to Be Aware Of
Before the Procedure
- Stop aspirin and blood-thinning medications 48 hours before the procedure (with your doctor's approval)
- Do not apply make-up to the treatment area on the day of the procedure
- Avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours before the procedure
- If you have an active skin infection, postpone your session
After the Procedure
- Do not touch the treatment area and do not apply make-up for 24 hours after the procedure
- Avoid intense exercise, saunas, steam baths and pools for 48 hours
- Protect from direct sunlight for 1 week and use SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Do not rub or massage injection sites on the first day
- Support the skin's healing process by drinking plenty of water
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is mesotherapy a painful procedure?
No, mesotherapy is generally painless or minimally painful. The needles used are very fine (30–32 gauge), and most patients report only a mild stinging sensation. In sensitive areas, topical anaesthetic cream is applied to increase comfort.
2. When are the results of mesotherapy visible?
Radiance and moisturisation in the skin are noticeable from the first session. However, lasting and visible results generally require 3–4 completed sessions. For hair mesotherapy, results become apparent within 2–3 months.
3. Are mesotherapy results permanent?
Mesotherapy results are not permanent, but they can be maintained for a long time with regular maintenance sessions. Results last 6–12 months for skin mesotherapy and 6–8 months for hair mesotherapy. 2–4 maintenance sessions per year are recommended.
4. What is the difference between mesotherapy and PRP?
Mesotherapy uses an externally prepared vitamin-mineral cocktail, while PRP uses platelet-rich plasma derived from the patient's own blood. PRP carries no allergic reaction risk, while mesotherapy offers a wider range of active substances.
5. In which season should mesotherapy be done?
Mesotherapy can be done in any season. However, extra attention must be paid to sun protection in summer. Many experts recommend autumn and winter as intensive session periods, as sun exposure is lower.
6. How long does a mesotherapy session last?
A mesotherapy session takes an average of 15–30 minutes. Including anaesthetic cream waiting time, the total clinical duration can be 45–60 minutes. No recovery time is required afterwards; patients can return to daily activities immediately.
7. Is mesotherapy the same as youth vaccine?
No, they are different treatments. Mesotherapy applies a wide variety of active substances via superficial injection, while youth vaccine injects high-concentration pure hyaluronic acid into the deep dermis at strategic points.
8. Is mesotherapy done during pregnancy?
No, mesotherapy is absolutely not applied during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The effects of cocktail ingredients on the foetus have not been sufficiently studied and it is contraindicated for safety reasons.
9. Can mesotherapy be done together with hair transplantation?
Yes, it can. Before hair transplantation, mesotherapy can be used to prepare the scalp for treatment. After hair transplantation, it can be applied to accelerate healing and increase the take rate of transplanted grafts. Mesotherapy is generally started 3–4 weeks after hair transplantation.
10. Is needle-free mesotherapy effective?
Needle-free mesotherapy delivers active substances to the skin through physical methods such as electroporation, sonophoresis or iontophoresis. It is less invasive than needle mesotherapy but its efficacy is also relatively lower. It is a good alternative for patients with needle phobia, but classical mesotherapy remains the gold standard in terms of clinical results.
11. How long should the interval between mesotherapy sessions be?
Session intervals vary by treatment type. 2–4 weeks for skin mesotherapy, 1–2 weeks for hair mesotherapy, 1–2 weeks for cellulite treatment. Intervals that are too short can cause skin irritation, while intervals that are too long can reduce treatment efficacy.
12. Can mesotherapy and botox be done together?
Yes, but not in the same session. Mesotherapy and botox are complementary treatments working through different mechanisms. It is generally recommended to leave at least 2 weeks between the two procedures. The common protocol is botox first, then mesotherapy.
13. When can make-up be applied after mesotherapy?
Make-up should not be applied to the treatment area for at least 24 hours after the procedure. This period is necessary for micro-needle channels to close and to minimise the risk of infection. Mineral-based light make-up products can be used after the first 24 hours.
14. From what age can mesotherapy be applied?
Mesotherapy can be applied to individuals over 18. However, in clinical practice, skin mesotherapy is generally recommended for people aged 25 and above for the purpose of preventing signs of ageing. Hair mesotherapy can be applied to any adult (18+) with a hair loss complaint.
Why Choose Virtuana Clinic?
Dr. Abdülmelik Dönmez and the Virtuana Clinic team offer the following standards for mesotherapy applications in Izmit/Kocaeli:
- Personalised cocktail preparation: Individual cocktail formulation for each patient following skin analysis
- Certified and approved products: Use of only Ministry of Health-approved, CE-certified products
- Sterile application environment: Full compliance with clinical hygiene standards
- Comprehensive consultation: Detailed pre-procedure assessment and realistic expectation management
- Combined treatment expertise: Combined planning of mesotherapy with PRP and other complementary treatments