Mesotherapy for hair: vitamin cocktails and results

What is mesotherapy for hair?

Mesotherapy is an injection technique in which specialised treatment cocktails are delivered directly into the skin of the scalp, to a depth of 1.5–4 mm. The procedure delivers active ingredients — vitamins, minerals, amino acids and peptides — straight to the hair follicles, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and providing maximum bioavailability. Mesotherapy is effective in diffuse hair loss, in the early stages of androgenetic alopecia, in seasonal shedding, and for restoring hair quality after stress, illness or pregnancy. It is prescribed by a trichologist after assessment — trichoscopy and laboratory tests.

What the vitamin cocktails contain

The effectiveness of mesotherapy is determined by the composition of the cocktail, which is chosen individually according to the problem. The main components of modern meso-cocktails:

• biotin (vitamin B7): the key vitamin for hair health. It takes part in the synthesis of keratin, the main protein of the hair shaft. A biotin deficiency leads directly to brittleness and shedding. Delivery by mesotherapy achieves a concentration in the follicle 10–15 times higher than oral intake.
• zinc and copper: trace elements that regulate the activity of 5-alpha-reductase (the enzyme associated with androgenetic alopecia) and take part in forming the disulphide bonds of keratin. Zinc also has an anti-inflammatory effect, which matters where seborrhoeic dermatitis is also present.
• panthenol and hyaluronic acid: provide deep hydration of the scalp and the hair follicles. Hyaluronic acid creates an optimal microenvironment for hair growth, while panthenol repairs damaged structure of the shaft.
• copper peptides and growth factors: the most advanced component of meso-cocktails. Peptides stimulate proliferation of the cells of the dermal papilla, prolong the active growth phase (anagen) and promote the formation of new capillaries around the follicle, improving its nutrition.

How the procedure is carried out

Before the procedure the trichologist assesses the state of the hair and scalp with a trichoscope, determines the type of alopecia and selects the optimal cocktail. The scalp is cleaned with an antiseptic. The injections are given with a fine needle (30–32G) or with a meso-injector, a device that ensures an even depth and dose. The procedure takes 30–40 minutes. Pain is minimal — most patients describe the sensation as light tingling. Where necessary, local anaesthesia with a lidocaine cream is used. Afterwards it is recommended not to wash the hair for 12–24 hours and to avoid saunas, swimming pools and strenuous exercise for 2–3 days.

Expected results and the course of treatment

A standard course of mesotherapy for hair consists of 8–12 sessions at intervals of 7–14 days. The first results are visible after 3–4 sessions: shedding decreases and fine new hairs appear along the hairline. After a full course, patients report an increase in density of 20–40% and improved texture and shine. To maintain the result, maintenance sessions once every 1–2 months are recommended. Effectiveness depends on the cause of the hair loss: results are best in diffuse alopecia and seasonal shedding, while in androgenetic alopecia mesotherapy is most effective combined with drug treatment.

Contraindications and possible side effects

Mesotherapy is a safe procedure, but it has clear contraindications: pregnancy and breastfeeding, autoimmune disease in an active phase, clotting disorders, treatment with anticoagulants, inflammatory scalp disease in the acute phase (folliculitis, furunculosis), cancer, and individual intolerance of the components of the cocktail. Possible side effects include redness and small papules at the injection sites (which resolve within 1–2 days), mild swelling of the scalp and, rarely, a headache on the day of the procedure. Serious complications are practically excluded when technique and sterility are observed.

Preparation and aftercare

For 3–5 days before mesotherapy you should avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medication (aspirin, ibuprofen). On the day of the procedure, wash your hair with your usual shampoo without using masks or conditioners. Afterwards, avoid washing the hair for 12–24 hours, do not use styling products for 2–3 days, avoid direct sunlight and sunbeds for a week, and postpone colouring your hair for 7–10 days. Between sessions use a gentle sulphate-free shampoo. A balanced diet with enough protein, iron and B vitamins enhances the effect of mesotherapy.