WHAT IS MESOTHERAPY?
Mesotherapy, often known as the Celebrity Red Carpet Facial, is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that was developed in 1952 by a French physician. The medical technique is now widely recognised and used for aesthetic purposes to help rejuvenate the skin, reduce fat, stimulate hair growth and improve the appearance of cellulite.
In this blog, we’ll explore what mesotherapy is, its benefits, who it’s suitable for, who it’s not suitable for, how it works, and what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
What Is Mesotherapy?
To put it simply, mesotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment that involves placing tiny injections of vitamins, minerals, growth factors, amino acids and biomimetic peptides into the mesoderm (middle layer of the skin) to achieve various aesthetic and medical results.
What Does Mesotherapy Do?
The overall aim of mesotherapy is to give the area where it’s injected a boost. It’s often used to make your skin look fresher, brighter and smoother, and can also help reduce things like fine lines, cellulite, stubborn fat, and even hair thinning by promoting hair growth.
What Is Mesotherapy Nappage?
At Hannah McCoy Clinic, we offer a gentle technique called mesotherapy nappage, which involves rapid micro-injections to deliver the product evenly across the skin to give you a radiant glow with minimal downtime.
What Are The Benefits of Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a popular treatment due to its powerful benefits, which include:
- Skin rejuvenation and hydration
- Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduced eye puffiness and dark circles
- Improved skin tone and elasticity
- Targeted fat loss in areas like the abdomen, thighs, and chin
- Reduction in cellulite and stretch marks
- Hair regrowth stimulation in cases of thinning hair
- No requirement for general anaesthesia
- Short recovery time
Who Is Mesotherapy Suitable For?
Mesotherapy is suitable for adults (18+ years) who are generally in good health and are looking for non-invasive ways to improve their physical appearance. It is ideal for those with:
- Mild to moderate skin laxity
- Early signs of ageing
- Dull or dehydrated skin
- Dark or puffy skin around the eyes
- Localised fat deposits
- Early hair thinning or hair loss
Who Is Mesotherapy Not Suitable For?
Despite being a generally safe procedure, mesotherapy is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, diabetic patients who use insulin, cancer patients, individuals with certain skin conditions or autoimmune diseases, or those with a history of paralysis or allergic reactions to the ingredients used.
It’s very important to fully disclose your medical records with your practitioner before treatment so they can determine whether it is suitable for you. If you’re unsure or would like some advice, give our team at Hannah McCoy Clinic a call on 0151 332 3333, and we’ll be more than happy to advise you further.
How to Prepare for Mesotherapy?
Before undergoing mesotherapy treatment, you will need a consultation with one of our qualified practitioners to determine if mesotherapy is right for you. Once this has been determined, you can prepare for your treatment by:
- Avoiding alcohol, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory medications for at least 48 hours prior to treatment, as they can increase the risk of bruising
- Informing your practitioner of any allergies or existing health conditions
- Staying well-hydrated and following a healthy diet
- Avoiding waxing, shaving, or applying strong skincare products to the treatment area for at least 24 hours before your appointment
What to Expect During Your Treatment
A typical mesotherapy session lasts between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on the size of the area that is being treated. During the treatment:
- The area will be cleansed and disinfected
- A numbing cream may be applied for approximately 30 to 40 minutes
- A series of micro-injections will be administered using a fine needle
- You may feel mild discomfort or a pinching sensation
What to Expect After Your Treatment
After your mesotherapy session, it’s common for the treated area to look a bit red or swollen. This usually settles down within a few hours, and most people can quickly return to their daily activities. You may also have mild tenderness or slight bruising, especially around the eyes, but this should fade within a day or two.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks of Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. However, like any cosmetic treatment, it may involve some side effects or risks. The table below outlines the most common mesotherapy side effects and how to reduce potential complications.
| Possible Side Effects | Description | Risk Level | How to Minimise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swelling or Bruising | Temporary inflammation or bruising at the injection site | Low | Apply cold compress; avoid blood thinners pre-treatment |
| Redness or Sensitivity | Mild redness or tenderness around treated areas | Low | Typically subsides within a few hours |
| Mild Pain or Itching | Discomfort or itching as the skin heals | Low | Use recommended soothing creams or aftercare products |
| Allergic Reaction | Rare, but can include rash, hives, or more severe symptoms | Very Low | Inform your practitioner of any allergies beforehand |
| Infection | Risk if sterile equipment or hygiene practices are not followed | Low–Medium | Choose a reputable clinic with high hygiene standards |
Tip: To lower your risk of experiencing side effects from mesotherapy, make sure to choose a qualified practitioner with high-level hygiene protocols, like Hannah McCoy Clinic.

How Long Does It Take to Recover?
Recovery time after mesotherapy is usually short, and most people can return to their daily lives the same day, but this will vary from person to person.
If you do have mild swelling or bruising, it tends to subside within 1 to 3 days after treatment. During the first 48 hours of your healing process, it is recommended to avoid vigorous exercise, alcohol, and sun exposure.
Mesotherapy Aftercare Tips
Here are a few mesotherapy aftercare tips to ensure you achieve the best results with as few side effects as possible:
- Keep the treated area clean and avoid touching it unnecessarily
- Avoid heavy makeup for at least 24 hours
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
- Avoid sun exposure and apply SPF daily
- Refrain from alcohol and intense exercise for a couple of days
- Follow up with your practitioner as advised
How Much Does Mesotherapy Cost?
The cost of mesotherapy in the UK varies depending on the treatment area, the number of sessions required, and the clinic’s location. For optimal results, most people usually require a course of 4 to 6 sessions, and the average cost of mesotherapy nappage at Hannah McCoy Clinic is as follows:
- Face treatments: from £150 to £300 per session
- Body contouring or fat reduction treatments: from £200 and £500 per session
- Hair loss treatments: from £200 to £400 per session
Considering Mesotherapy? Speak To Us Today
Mesotherapy is a safe and effective way to tackle concerns like skin ageing, stubborn fat, and thinning hair, as well as being a go-to treatment to give your skin a radiant boost.
At Hannah McCoy Clinic, our medically trained practitioners use the most up-to-date techniques, including nappage, to deliver professional and tailored results with minimal downtime.
If you're ready to refresh your skin and target stubborn pockets of fat, without the need for surgery or long recovery times, book your mesotherapy consultation today and let us help you find the right treatment for your goals.
Mesotherapy FAQ’s
Is mesotherapy effective?
The effectiveness of mesotherapy can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. As mesotherapy offers more natural and gradual results, many people report noticeable improvements after 4 to 6 sessions.
Is mesotherapy painful?
On the whole, mesotherapy is a well-tolerated cosmetic treatment that causes little to no pain. It tends to feel like a mild prickling sensation, but nothing more painful than that.
Is mesotherapy different to liposuction?
Yes, they’re different. Mesotherapy is a non-surgical treatment using micro-injections to target small areas of fat with minimal downtime and more natural results. Liposuction, on the other hand, is surgical, removes larger fat deposits, and comes with higher risk, longer recovery, and higher costs.