They say beauty comes at a price, this adage proved true for three women in New Mexico (USA) who got infected with HIV after undergoing a skin care routine – vampire facials. A recent report said the procedure, promoted as a way to correct blemishes, lines and texture, was administered in 2018 at an unlicensed spa, where cosmetologists prescribed various procedures. Basic hygiene practices such as reusing the same needle and storing blood in unlabelled vials were violated. By the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
This has raised concerns among skin care enthusiasts about the dangers of the vampire facial, which is a favorite among celebrities such as reality TV personality Kim Kardashian. Even closer to home, the beauty treatment has a huge fan base, with celebrities like actress Deepika Padukone and reality show star Seema Sajdeh opting for it. Experts tell us that its demand is mostly during the wedding and party season, but they caution us to tread carefully on this path.
What is a vampire facial?
Dr Nishita Ranka, dermatologist and founder of a skin clinic in Gurgaon, who has been running this routine for over eight years, explains, “It is a platelet-rich plasma facial, where the patients’ blood is collected. and plasma is separated from it. Blood. It is then injected into the upper layers of the skin using small hypodermic needles. “This is combined with microneedling to ensure that the entire face is covered.” She says the treatment is recommended to “boost collagen and elastin, tighten skin, correct pigmentation, reduce signs of aging, and get a glow.”
‘Specialization and sterilization are key’
If done wrong, routine can turn into a deadly sting. “You must undergo treatment in the clinic of a licensed medical practitioner and ensure that the same sample taken from a patient is only injected into their face. There is a risk of HIV when blood gets mixed during injection,” cautions Dr Ranka.
Emphasizing the need for protection, Dr Shravya C Tipirneni, consultant dermatologist at Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, says, “Women getting infected with HIV after vampire facial in New Mexico is a reminder of the importance of proper sterilization and expertise. Improper handling of equipment, especially re-use of needles, can transmit blood-borne diseases. “Lack of training can lead to accidental blood vessel puncture, increased risk of infection, etc.”
there is always an option
Experts also say that anyone wanting results like a vampire facial will always have an option. Dr. Seema Oberoi Lal, consultant dermatology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, advises, “Before getting a vampire facial, discuss with your dermatologist why you want it and what results you are looking for. There may be other methods like medifacial, medical peels, laser skin rejuvenation, etc. which can give similar results.
Avoid vampire facial if…
There are some individuals who may be at risk if they choose treatment. Dr DM Mahajan, senior consultant in dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, explains that people with “active acne, skin infections or blood disorders” should avoid the procedure.
People with allergies, blood disorders, active infections, cancer, autoimmune diseases, pregnant and lactating women should avoid this procedure, says Dr Atul Gupta, dermatologist, Gurugram.
