What is Mesotherapy?
Located at the intersection of medicine and aesthetics, Mesotherapy, developed in 1952 by French doctor Michel Pistor and now one of the most effective treatment protocols accepted worldwide, is the process of delivering vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and bioactive substances such as hyaluronic acid to the middle layer of the skin (mesoderm) via micro-injections. This method is based on the philosophy that “treatment should be applied where the problem is.” The limited absorption rates of oral medications or topical creams reduce the amount of active substance reaching the target tissue. Mesotherapy overcomes this obstacle by delivering the necessary building blocks directly to the target tissue, i.e., the dermis, maximizing biological utilization.
Especially in a region like Izmir, where the sun is intense for a large part of the year and environmental factors such as sea and wind can damage the skin, mesotherapy is an indispensable medical support for maintaining the skin’s moisture balance, suppressing the formation of blemishes, and managing signs of aging. The active social lives and aesthetic awareness of Izmir residents are increasing interest in these minimally invasive procedures that do not disrupt a person’s social life. Mesotherapy, applied not only for facial rejuvenation (Mesolift) but also for a wide range of treatments such as hair loss, cellulite treatment, localized slimming, and blemish treatment, is a holistic approach that increases the skin’s self-repair capacity.
Working Principle and Mechanism of Action of Mesotherapy
The effectiveness of mesotherapy application is based on two fundamental mechanisms. The synergy of these mechanisms determines the success of the treatment.
1. Pharmacological Effect (Drug Effect)
This is the biochemical effect of the substances in the applied cocktail. For example, vitamin C injected into the skin creates a strong antioxidant effect, neutralizing free radicals and suppressing the formation of blemishes. Hyaluronic acid moisturizes the skin with its water-retention capacity. Salmon DNA triggers cell regeneration. In short, each injected substance has a specific function in the tissue and interacts directly with cell receptors.
2. Physical Effect (Micro-Trauma Effect)
During the procedure, hundreds of micro-incisions are made into the skin with very fine needles. These incisions create a sensation of “controlled damage” in the skin. The body’s defense mechanism sends growth factors and repair cells (fibroblasts) to the area to repair these micro-channels. This process allows the skin to naturally increase collagen and elastin production. Therefore, the needling procedure triggers skin regeneration independently of the drug’s effect.
Mesotherapy Applications in Izmir: Regional Solutions
In clinics in Izmir, mesotherapy is categorized according to aesthetic and medical problems in different areas of the body.
Facial Mesotherapy (Mesolift)
The sun in Izmir accelerates the process we call photoaging. Mesolift is ideal for skin that has been exposed to sun damage, lost its moisture, and has begun to develop fine wrinkles.
Purpose: To deeply moisturize the skin, eliminate dullness, reduce fine lines, and give the skin a “radiance”. It is also known as vitamin mesotherapy.
Hair Mesotherapy
It is applied to nourish hair follicles that have weakened due to genetic hair loss, stress, seasonal changes, or hormonal changes.
Purpose: To increase blood flow to the hair follicles, shorten the shedding phase (telogen), and lengthen the growth phase (anagen). It helps the hair grow thicker and more vibrant. It is frequently preferred as a supportive treatment, especially after hair transplantation.
Body Mesotherapy (Lipolysis and Cellulite)
It is applied for the orange peel appearance (cellulite) caused by circulatory disorders or stubborn localized fat deposits.
Purpose: To deliver enzymes that facilitate the breakdown of fat cells and substances that accelerate circulation (caffeine, artichoke extract, etc.) to the problematic area.
What are the Contents of Mesotherapy Cocktails?
Mesotherapy products are selected by the physician according to the patient’s needs, age, and skin type. They can be found in ready-made kits (vials) or prepared by the physician. The most commonly used components are:
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- Hyaluronic Acid: It is the skin’s moisture reservoir. Provides fullness and elasticity.
- Vitamins (A, C, E, B Group): Provides antioxidant protection, supports cell renewal and revitalizes the skin.
- Amino Acids: They are the necessary building blocks for protein synthesis (collagen and elastin).
- Minerals and Coenzymes: Accelerates cellular metabolism.
- Nucleic Acids (Salmon DNA): Supports DNA repair.
- Peptides: Facilitates intercellular communication.
It sends repair signals by crying.
- DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol): Increases muscle tone and provides tightening.
Comparison of Mesotherapy vs. Other Methods
The most frequently asked question by patients is why injections should be done instead of applying cream or taking vitamin pills. The following table summarizes this difference from a scientific perspective:
| Method | Application Method | Absorption Rate (Bioavailability) | Reaching Target Tissue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesotherapy | Direct Injection into the Skin | Very High (over 90%) | Reaches the dermis and hair follicle directly. |
| Topical Creams | Applying to the Skin Surface | Low (5% – 10%) | Breaks the skin barrier (epidermis) It is difficult to overcome. |
| Oral Supplements | Oral Pill/Powder | Medium (20% – 50%) | It is broken down in the digestive system and distributed throughout the body. |
Application Process: Is it painful?
Comfort is prioritized in clinics in Izmir. The procedure process is as follows:
- Preparation: The application area is cleaned and disinfected.
- Anesthesia: Strong local anesthetic creams are applied 15-20 minutes before the procedure. This minimizes the sensation of pain.
- Injection: Using very fine-tipped (30G-32G-34G) special mesotherapy needles or automatic guns, the product is injected into the skin at specific intervals (napaj or papule technique).
- Duration: It takes an average of 15-20 minutes for the face and 10-15 minutes for the hair.
- Afterwards: Soothing masks or creams are applied.
Who is it suitable for, and who is it not suitable for?
Mesotherapy is suitable for a wide age range, but it is not applied in some cases.
Suitable Candidates: Those with dullness, dryness, fine wrinkles, spots, or the beginnings of sagging skin; those experiencing hair loss; those with cellulite problems.
Unsuitable Candidates (Contraindications):
Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, those with active skin infections (such as herpes), those taking blood thinners (under doctor’s supervision), those undergoing cancer treatment, patients with uncontrolled diabetes, and those allergic to any of the ingredients in this product.
Post-Application Precautions
After mesotherapy, the following points should be considered by those in Izmir to increase the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce the risk of side effects:
- Water Contact: Water should not be applied to the treatment area and makeup should not be applied for the first 24 hours.
- Sun Protection: Since the skin may become sensitive after the procedure, direct sun exposure should be avoided and a high-factor sunscreen should be used.
- Hot Environments: Extremely hot environments such as Turkish baths, saunas, and solariums should be avoided for the first 2-3 days.
- Plenty of Water: Plenty of water should be consumed for skin hydration and toxin elimination.
Conclusion: A Biological Investment
In summary; “What is Mesotherapy?” The answer to the question is that mesotherapy is a scientific and effective treatment method that delivers the nutrients your skin and hair need directly to their source. Mesotherapy doesn’t just provide instant beauty; it’s a biological investment that slows down the aging process by improving skin quality.
If you want to regain your skin’s radiance, strengthen your hair, or tighten your body contours in Izmir, mesotherapy is a safe haven. With the right product, the right technique, and application by an expert physician, it’s possible to notice the change in your skin.
