Mesotherapy is used to treat several conditions, including cellulite, localized fat deposits, facial and neck wrinkles, acne, hair loss and stretch marks. Injections of various natural or synthetic compounds are introduced with a tiny needle into the mesoderm, or layer of fatty and connective tissue immediately below the skin. Most people are able to tolerate the slight pain felt during an injection. For people with a low pain threshold, injections can be given under local anesthesia.

Mesotherapy is thought to improve the appearance of cellulite, or superficial fat deposits, through several complementary mechanisms. Fat cells are broken down, new fat is prevented from forming, damaged connective tissue that creates the dimpling effect is broken down, and blood circulation is improved. The end result is a smoothening of the skin.

To treat more localized fat deposits, such as love handles, a compound called phosphatidlycholine is commonly injected. This compound is a