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February 6, 2026
Hanja Niederhammer
How does mesotherapy work? Discover the effects, procedure, risks, and benefits of the aesthetic method for skin and hair
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Mesotherapy has established itself in aesthetic medicine as a minimally invasive procedure aimed at targeted skin regeneration and tissue stimulation. Developed in the mid-20th century, it is now primarily used for skin rejuvenation, hair loss, and local skin problems such as dark circles or fine lines.
The method is characterized by the combination of microfine injections and individually tailored active ingredients. These reach directly into the middle skin layer - where cell regeneration, microcirculation, and collagen formation can be stimulated. The focus is not on immediate changes in appearance but on sustainable activation of the body's own processes.
What exactly is behind the procedure, who it is suitable for, and in which cases mesotherapy can be medically useful - all this is covered in the following overview.
Mesotherapy is a medical procedure that has established itself as a gentle method in aesthetic dermatology. Originally from pain therapy, it is now used for skin rejuvenation, hair loss, or the treatment of dark circles.
The goal is to inject individually tailored active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamins, or amino acids directly into the middle skin layer (mesoderm) using fine needles or a meso-gun. There they specifically stimulate processes such as cell regeneration, microcirculation, and collagen formation.
Unlike fillers or surgical interventions, mesotherapy focuses on a gradual improvement of skin structure - through the body's own repair mechanisms, without volume build-up or downtime. It is particularly suitable for patients seeking a natural, well-tolerated treatment with a medical active principle.
Mesotherapy works through two complementary mechanisms: on the one hand through targeted delivery of active ingredients, on the other hand through mechanical stimulation of the skin.
Individually tailored substances - such as hyaluronic acid, vitamins, amino acids, or peptides - are injected directly into the so-called mesoderm, the middle layer of the skin. There, vessels, fibroblasts, and receptors respond to regenerative stimuli. The goal is to promote local processes such as collagen formation, cell regeneration, and microcirculation.
The fine needle pricks additionally create a stimulus, activating the body's own repair processes. Growth factors are released and cell activity is stimulated, enhancing the effect of the active ingredients. The injections are applied pointwise and shallowly, often using very fine needles or a mesotherapy gun - often in particularly responsive skin areas.
Immediately after mesotherapy, the skin may be slightly red, swollen, or sensitive in spots - especially at the injection sites. These reactions are usually mild and generally subside within 24 to 48 hours. Mild bruising or a feeling of tightness is also possible, but does not require special aftercare.
In the first few days, targeted aftercare is important to avoid skin irritation and support the treatment result:
For a sustainable effect, several sessions are usually necessary, typically spaced two to four weeks apart. Depending on the skin condition and desired outcome, many doctors recommend a series of three to six treatments with subsequent refreshers spaced several months apart.
Mesotherapy is considered a safe, well-tolerated procedure when applied professionally. Since only small amounts of active ingredients are injected locally, serious side effects are rare. Possible reactions like slight redness, swelling, or small bruises at the injection sites usually subside quickly. In rare cases, intolerances can occur—especially in those with known allergies. A careful medical assessment beforehand minimizes this risk.
The effect unfolds gradually and is time-limited. Multiple sessions are often necessary for lasting results. Whether this is considered a disadvantage of mesotherapy depends heavily on individual expectations. For many patients, the appeal of the procedure lies precisely in this biological, sustainable approach.
Mesotherapy is particularly suitable for people who show early signs of skin aging. or structural changes in the skin, such as fine lines, loss of elasticity, dull skin, or slight pigmentation shifts. Patients with dry or stressed skin seeking a more intensive supply of micronutrients can also benefit from the method.
In addition, mesotherapy is successfully used for functional problems such as early, diffuse hair loss, dark circles under the eyes, or reduced microcirculation in the tissue. The method is suitable for both women and men and can be individually adapted to age, skin type, and therapy goals.
Mesotherapy is not suitable for acute inflammations, active skin infections, or allergic skin reactions in the area to be treated. Also not during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as in certain autoimmune diseases. Especially under immunosuppressive therapy, application should be avoided. In these cases, a medical assessment is essential beforehand to rule out potential risks.
Mesotherapy can visibly improve skin quality—especially on the face, neck, or décolleté. By specifically providing hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants, the skin is moisturized and stimulated to regenerate. First wrinkles, dull complexion, or loss of elasticity can be effectively addressed without volume buildup or restrictions on facial expressions.
In the sensitive eye area, it is particularly important to use compatible active ingredients and precise dosage. Mesotherapy uses a combination of hyaluronic acid, micronutrients, and polynucleotides to reduce dark shadows, dryness wrinkles, and mild skin sagging. The skin is strengthened and microcirculation improved.
For early or diffuse hair loss, mesotherapy offers a targeted approach: Special cocktails of active ingredients with biotin, amino acids, trace elements, and blood circulation-promoting substances are introduced directly into the scalp. The goal is to strengthen the hair roots, reactivate dormant follicles, and stimulate hair growth—without systemic medications.
Mesobotox is a special form of mesotherapy with diluted botulinum toxin. Injected in very small amounts, superficially, it can smooth fine lines without paralyzing the muscles. The effect: relaxed facial features, refined skin texture without stiff expressions. The method is particularly suitable for sensitive skin or as a supplement to other anti-aging procedures.
The results develop gradually. After 2 to 3 sessions, many patients report smoother, more hydrated skin or stronger hair. For lasting effects, regular touch-ups are advisable - depending on skin type, approximately every 4 to 6 months.
Many patients find the treatment pleasant and gentle. The skin appears fresher, with finer pores, more even - without a 'done' look. Feedback is particularly positive in the eye area or with early hair loss, although patience is required: the regeneration effect builds up over weeks.
Depending on the treatment area and active ingredients, the cost per session is usually between 150 and 350 euros. For visible effects, doctors often recommend a course of 3 to 5 sessions.
The effect lasts about 3 to 6 months, depending on skin type, treatment area, and lifestyle. For a permanently stable result, specialists recommend regular refreshers, about two to three times a year.
Most patients find the treatment well-tolerated. Slight pricking or tingling is possible, and a numbing cream can be used if desired.
A course of 3 to 5 sessions at intervals of 2 to 4 weeks is usually recommended. Refreshers at longer intervals stabilize the result in the long term.
Individually tailored mixtures of hyaluronic acid, vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants or - depending on the indication - polynucleotides or peptides are used. The selection is based on skin condition and treatment goal.
At PMC you will find only medically qualified practitioners specializing in minimally invasive procedures. The selection of active ingredients and the implementation follow the highest medical standards.
Use our doctor search to find a suitable specialist practice in your area - whether for skin rejuvenation, Hair treatment or targeted applications in the eye area.
