Doctors warn against cosmetic trend that leaves you looking like a reptile – revealing risk of permanent eye damage

DOCTORS are warning against a dangerous method for getting rid of dark under eye circles.

Mesotherapy involves a liquid concoction consisting of vitamins, minerals, hormones and enzymes being injected under the eyes, leaving patients looking like reptiles.

It purports to fill in wrinkles and decrease fat to leave under eyes looking smoother.

The cosmetic procedure has been around for decades but has made a sudden comeback, with clips shared on social media by multiple influencers.

Those reported to have had some form of the procedure include Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow.

Mesotherapy can be used anywhere on the body but is most popular on the face, hands and stomach.

However, it temporarily results in raised bumps under the skin resembling honeycomb – though others have described it as reptilian.

Experts say the procedure, despite the marketing, comes with serious risks.

Dr Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a New York-based dermatologist told the MailOnline US: “The risks of under-eye mesotherapy go beyond minor side effects, especially when people go to inexperienced technicians or do this at home.

“Patients may experience long-lasting bruising, severe allergic reactions, skin necrosis due to product placement in blood vessels, or even permanent eye damage.”

Unlike botox, the substances used for mesotherapy are unregulated, meaning each practitioner will create their own unique mixtures.

Dr Kazlouskaya added: “While mesotherapy may be legal in some other countries, the absence of US regulatory oversight means patients could be exposed to counterfeit or unverified products.”

Some mixtures include prescription meds like antibiotics or drugs that relax blood vessels, reports Heathline.

The fluid blends are reportedly available online for as little as £35 – though in the UK the cost for the procedure itself is usually between £200 and £700.

And the method requires little training to administer it – with inexperience leading to unsightly results.

This can include the development of small collection of blood cells and tissue under the eyes called granulomas – which could lead to infection and long term damage.

The cost of mesotherapy in the UK is between £200 and £700.

Dr Hannah Kopelam, a dermatologist, emphasised the “importance of a tailored approach” when looking to remove dark eye circles.

“Starting with identifying the underlying cause and exploring evidence-based options that provide safe and predictable results,” she explained.