How Does Under-Eye Mesotherapy Work?
In facial aesthetics, the first area where signs of “fatigue” and “aging” appear is undoubtedly the eye contour. This region, which has the thinnest and most delicate skin structure in our body, can deform very quickly due to genetic factors, lack of sleep, stress, poor nutrition, and environmental effects. In particular, under-eye dark circles, puffiness, and fine wrinkles are common problems that make a person look older and more tired than they actually are. In managing these concerns, Under-Eye Mesotherapy stands out as an alternative to surgical methods or as a complementary treatment; it is a medical procedure that initiates a biological repair process by delivering the building blocks the skin needs directly to the problem area.
Especially in cities like İzmir, where the number of sunny days is high and an active social life is maintained, under-eye concerns can become more pronounced due to the influence of both genetic and environmental factors (UV rays, etc.). The ability of traditional creams or serums to penetrate the skin barrier and reach deeper layers is limited. This is where mesotherapy targets regulating circulation, balancing pigmentation, and increasing elasticity by intervening with micro-injections into the middle layer of the skin (the mesoderm).
What Is Under-Eye Mesotherapy? The Basic Principle
Under-eye mesotherapy is the process of injecting mixtures of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants—specially formulated for this area—into the skin with very fine-tipped needles, targeting specific problems around the eyes (dark circles, fine lines, edema, loss of elasticity).
The basic principle of this procedure is “targeted treatment.” When drugs are taken orally or applied to the skin, the amount of active ingredient that reaches the problem area is very low. In mesotherapy, active substances are delivered directly into the problematic tissue. In this way, both the pharmacological effects of the substances used and the micro-trauma created by needle entry points trigger the skin’s self-repair mechanism.
Mechanism of Action: What Happens Under the Skin?
The answer to the question “How Does Under-Eye Mesotherapy Work?” lies in the stimulation of biological processes. After the application, three main mechanisms are activated under the skin:
1. Regulation of Microcirculation (Treatment of Dark Circles)
One of the most common causes of under-eye dark circles is slowed blood circulation in the area and a dark appearance formed in the skin by blood cells that leak outside the vessels (hemosiderin pigment). Substances such as vitamin K, Gingko Biloba, and artichoke extract found in mesotherapy cocktails strengthen capillary vessel walls and increase lymphatic drainage. Improved circulation helps remove accumulated toxins and pigments from the area, supporting a reduction in the appearance of dark circles.
2. Fibroblast Activation and Collagen Synthesis
Collagen and elastin fibers that provide skin firmness decrease with age. Amino acids and biomimetic peptides used in mesotherapy stimulate “Fibroblast” cells, the skin’s production factories. Stimulated cells begin producing new collagen fibers. This process supports thickening of the under-eye skin, increased resilience, and the softening of fine wrinkles.
3. Hydration and Brightening
Hyaluronic Acid, an essential component of mesotherapy mixtures, has the capacity to hold up to one thousand times its weight in water. Hyaluronic acid delivered under the skin establishes the area’s moisture balance and helps the skin look brighter and more vibrant. In addition, powerful antioxidants such as vitamin C and glutathione contribute to brightening by suppressing melanin production.
What Is in the Mesotherapy Cocktail?
Products used in under-eye mesotherapy may be tailored according to the patient’s needs rather than following a standard formula, or they may come as ready-made kits designed for specific purposes (e.g., RRS Eyes, Jalupro, etc.). The main components are:
- Hyaluronic Acid: Provides hydration and increased elasticity. It is not cross-linked like in dermal fillers; it is in a fluid (free) form.
- Vitamins (A, C, E, K): Create an antioxidant effect, protect vascular structure, and support cell renewal.
- Amino Acids: Essential building blocks for protein synthesis.
- Peptides: Send repair signals by enabling intercellular communication.
- Organic Silicon: Strengthens connective tissue and helps improve sagging.
Approach to Eye Area Aesthetics and Patient Profile in İzmir
İzmir is one of Türkiye’s leading centers in the field of medical aesthetics. Dermatologists and medical aesthetic physicians in the city generally plan under-eye mesotherapy as part of combined treatment protocols. Since İzmir’s sunny climate can accelerate photoaging, mesotherapy applications are recommended not only as restorative treatments but also as “protective” therapies.
The most common complaints among patients who apply to clinics in İzmir are dark circles due to genetic predisposition, signs of fatigue related to computer use, and under-eye edema triggered by seasonal allergies. Mesotherapy is positioned as an effective supportive treatment in managing these complaints.
Differences Between Under-Eye Mesotherapy and Under-Eye Light Filler
These two methods, often confused by patients, actually serve completely different purposes. The table below serves as a guide to help you choose the right treatment:
| Feature | Under-Eye Mesotherapy | Under-Eye Light Filler |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Improve skin quality, even out skin tone, soften fine lines. | Address volume loss, fill hollowness. |
| Mechanism of Action | Cellular repair and biostimulation (Nourishment). | Physical filling effect (Camouflage and Volume). |
| Substance Used | Fluid Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin Cocktail. | Cross-Linked (Gel consistency) Hyaluronic Acid. |
| Number of Sessions | Usually 3–6 sessions (Course treatment). | Usually a single session (or with touch-ups). |
| Duration of Effect | Longevity depends on individual care; maintenance is needed. | Average 12–18 months. |
| Ideal Candidate | Those with dark circles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity. | Those with prominent hollowness and troughs under the eyes. |
Application Process: Is It Painful?
The mesotherapy procedure is performed in a hospital or clinical setting under sterile conditions.
- Preparation: The area is cleansed and a local anesthetic cream is applied, then left for 15–20 minutes. This minimizes the sensation of pain during the procedure.
- Application: The physician injects the product under the skin at specific intervals (papule technique or nappage) using very fine needles (30G–32G) or microneedling devices. The procedure takes approximately 10–15 minutes.
- Aftercare: A soothing and anti-edema mask or cream may be applied to the area.
Who Is It Suitable For, and Who Is It Not Suitable For?
Suitable Candidates:
It is suitable for adult individuals who show signs of fatigue under the eyes, have mild-to-moderate dark circle complaints, are beginning to develop fine wrinkles (crow’s feet), and feel that the eye area has lost moisture.
Not Suitable Candidates:
The procedure is not performed for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, those with active skin infections (cold sores, etc.), those using blood-thinning medications (should be discontinued under a doctor’s supervision), and those with allergies to substances in the product content. In addition, in individuals with very advanced under-eye bags (herniated fat tissue), mesotherapy alone may not be sufficient and surgical options (blepharoplasty) should be considered.
Post-Procedure Points to Consider
For patients in İzmir who undergo mesotherapy, the following points should be observed to increase the success of the procedure and prevent side effects:
- Sun Protection: Direct sun exposure should be avoided during the first 24 hours after the procedure, and sunglasses should be worn when going outside.
- Contact with Water: The area should not come into contact with water and makeup should not be applied for the first 12 hours. Injection points should be allowed to close.
- Hot Environments: Extremely hot environments such as Turkish baths, saunas, and solariums should be avoided for the first few days.
- Plenty of Water Intake: Drink plenty of water to support the effect of hyaluronic acid and to help eliminate toxins.
Conclusion: Natural and Biological Renewal
In summary, the answer to the question “How Does Under-Eye Mesotherapy Work?” is a biological stimulation process that activates the skin’s own repair mechanisms. This method aims to provide a more rested and brighter look by improving skin quality—without changing facial expression, freezing mimics, or creating an artificial appearance.
If you are looking for a medical solution for your eye area concerns in İzmir, mesotherapy is a safe and effective option that can be applied without taking surgical risks and without disconnecting from social life. With the right patient selection, the right product, and an expert physician’s application, it is possible to erase the fatigue from your gaze.
