What is the difference between mesotherapy and biorevitalization and which is better to choose?
Two procedures, both involving injections, and both possibly containing hyaluronic acid. It's no wonder that after ten minutes on the clinics' websites, everything blurs together.
We explain, without medical jargon, the difference between mesotherapy and biorevitalization, why they are often confused, and how to determine which is best for your skin. The doctor will still select the right product and treatment plan during a physical examination. This article will help you approach your doctor with the right questions. You can take advantage of these services at https://alvibeauty.com/ru-ua/salons/zaporizhzhia/cosmetology .
Why are they confused: what do mesotherapy and biorevitalization have in common?
They do have a lot in common, though. Both procedures are injections: the medication is injected into the skin with a thin needle in small doses. Both improve skin quality and don't alter facial features. Both leave injection marks visible for several days afterward, and they have similar contraindications.
But the main reason for the confusion lies in the names. They were coined for different reasons. "Mesotherapy" describes the method: microinjections into the skin. The method was proposed by the French physician Michel Pistor in the 1950s, and the name doesn't reveal what exactly is being injected. "Biorevitalization" describes the product and its purpose: hyaluronic acid for hydration. In English-language sources, similar procedures are more often called "skin boosters."
Biorevitalization is usually performed using the same microinjection technique. Therefore, some doctors consider it a type of mesotherapy, while others consider it a separate procedure. Both are correct. It's like "fried" and "potatoes": one word refers to the method, the other to the product. So, when looking for the difference between mesotherapy and biorevitalization, remember: one name answers the question "how," the other answers the question "what." Incidentally, it's the same story with types of cosmetology: they are divided according to different criteria, so the categories overlap.
Adding to the confusion is “needle-free mesotherapy”: this is the name given to hardware-based techniques that do not involve injections.
What is mesotherapy?
Imagine a cocktail tailored to a specific purpose. A meso cocktail might include vitamins, amino acids, microelements, peptides, antioxidants, and a little hyaluronic acid. The composition of two friends with different skin types might differ almost completely.
Who is mesotherapy suitable for? Those with a dull complexion, pigmentation, post-acne scars, or simply "tired" skin. Facial mesotherapy is performed on the face, neck, and décolleté. Scalp mesotherapy is a separate treatment option for hair loss. It can be part of acne treatment, but it does not replace treatment by a dermatologist.
The effect of mesotherapy is cumulative and is assessed after a course. The scientific basis for this method is heterogeneous: the compositions of the cocktails vary greatly, making their results difficult to compare.
What is biorevitalization?
The key ingredient here is hyaluronic acid. It's already present in the skin and retains water. With age, exposure to intense sun, or dry heating seasons, it can become depleted. Skin becomes dehydrated: tight, dull, and finely wrinkled from dryness.
During biorevitalization, acid is injected into the dermis. The goal is to restore moisture to the skin and support the cells responsible for collagen and elastin, which in turn maintains firmness.
Who is biorevitalization suitable for? Those whose skin is primarily dehydrated and has lost its elasticity and radiance. The procedure is performed on the face, neck, décolleté, and hands.
Differences between mesotherapy and biorevitalization: composition, objectives, course
If we summarize the differences between mesotherapy and biorevitalization in one place, it turns out like this:
- Composition. In mesotherapy, it's a mixture of different substances; in biorevitalization, it's hyaluronic acid as the base.
- Purpose. Mesotherapy addresses various objectives depending on its composition. Biorevitalization primarily addresses hydration and firmness.
- Zones. Mesotherapy is performed on the face, scalp, and body. Biorevitalization is most often performed on the face, neck, décolleté, and hands.
- Product selection. For mesotherapy, the composition is tailored to the specific application. For biorevitalization, the doctor selects a ready-made product with the required acid concentration.
- Course. Both procedures are performed in a course, but their schedules are different.
The number of sessions, intervals, and even the depth of injection vary across websites. The exact dosage depends on the product and the initial skin condition, so the doctor will determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Biorevitalization and fillers: where is the line drawn?
Fillers also contain hyaluronic acid, but it's stabilized. This dense gel holds its shape and fills in volume, for example in the nasolabial fold or lips.
Biorevitalization uses unstabilized acid. It's liquid, spreads through the skin, and gradually breaks down. Therefore, it doesn't add volume or change the contour of the face. If you want to smooth out deep wrinkles, neither biorevitalization nor mesotherapy are suitable.
Mesotherapy or biorevitalization: which is better for your needs?
Choosing based on age is a bad idea. The question "What's better at 40: biorevitalization or mesotherapy" comes up all the time, but whether you're 30, 45, or 50, it all comes down to your skin condition. Two women of the same age may come to you with similar complaints and receive different recommendations.
When asked "which is better: mesotherapy or biorevitalization?" or "which is more effective," there's only one honest answer: it depends on your skin's needs. Simply put, the choice between mesotherapy and biorevitalization is as follows:
- If the skin is dry and tight, and fine wrinkles are more noticeable in the evening, biorevitalization is often discussed.
- If you're concerned about dull skin tone, pigmentation, or post-acne, but your skin has enough moisture, mesotherapy is often the first choice.
- Hair loss - this is for scalp mesotherapy.
- If you want to restore volume or remove deep folds, you can’t do either of the two; this is for other methods.
The under-eye area is a different story: the skin there is thinner, and the doctor selects a specific treatment for it. If the skin has multiple needs at once, treatments are often combined or alternated.
Pros and cons: what to expect and what not to expect from the procedures
The advantage of mesotherapy is its flexibility: the composition can be tailored to the specific needs. The disadvantage: the results are cumulative, and there won't be any miracles after the first visit.
The advantage of biorevitalization is its targeted treatment of dehydration: skin becomes more hydrated and elastic. The disadvantage: it doesn't create volume or eliminate deep wrinkles.
General disadvantages: injection marks are visible for several days, and the effect is not permanent. How long it lasts depends on the product, skin, and lifestyle, so courses are repeated. If someone promises "10-year rejuvenation" or a lifting effect after biorevitalization, this is an exaggeration.
Contraindications and post-procedure care
Although the injections are small, mesotherapy and biorevitalization remain medical procedures. They are usually postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in cases of inflammation, herpes, or skin lesions in the injection area, acute infections, and fever. The doctor will also ask about blood clotting and blood-thinning medications, autoimmune diseases, cancer, epilepsy, and allergies to components. In case of diabetes, the decision depends on how well the condition is controlled.
After the procedure, redness, mild swelling, and injection marks are common, along with occasional minor bruising. After biorevitalization, small papules are visible at the injection sites; these resolve on their own. The doctor will provide aftercare instructions. These typically include avoiding makeup for the first 24 hours, as well as saunas, tanning beds, and sun exposure for several days. The procedure must be performed by a physician with medical training.
If you'd like to see what cosmetology services are available in Zaporizhzhia, check out the AlviBeauty cosmetology page.
Frequently asked questions about mesotherapy and biorevitalization
What is better: mesotherapy or biorevitalization?
It depends on the problem. If the skin lacks moisture and elasticity, biorevitalization is often chosen. If pigmentation, dull color, or hair are concerns, mesotherapy is recommended. The final decision is made by a doctor after an examination.
What is better at 40: biorevitalization or mesotherapy?
Age doesn't dictate the choice. At 40, one woman's main concern is dehydration, while another's is pigmentation. The key is the condition of the skin.
Where to start: mesotherapy or biorevitalization?
Start with the issue that's most troubling. For severe dryness, biorevitalization is often the first step, while for pigmentation or post-acne, mesotherapy is the first.
Is it possible to combine mesotherapy and biorevitalization?
Yes, they are often combined or alternated. The procedures are usually spaced out: they are generally not performed on the same area on the same day.
Is mesotherapy and biorevitalization painful?
The needles are thin, but there are many punctures, so the sensation depends on the area and sensitivity. If necessary, a numbing cream is applied beforehand.
How many procedures are needed to achieve results?
Both procedures are performed as a course. The number of sessions and intervals depend on the product and the skin condition, so the exact schedule is determined only after a medical examination.
What are the disadvantages of biorevitalization?
It doesn't create volume or remove deep wrinkles. Injection marks and papules are visible for the first few days. The effect isn't permanent, and the procedure has contraindications.
What does the face look like after mesotherapy?
Immediately after the procedure, injection marks, redness, and mild swelling are visible, along with occasional minor bruising. This usually resolves within a few days.
How long do papules last after biorevitalization?
Typically, it takes a couple of days for the medication to gradually distribute itself throughout the skin. If the swelling persists for longer, consult a doctor.
Why isn't biorevitalization performed during pregnancy?
There is insufficient data on the safety of injection procedures during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, their use is postponed.