Vampire facial is another name for a skin treatment method that uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Although claimed to be able to make skin look youthful, vampire facials also have risks or side effects that need to be watched out for.
This method is called a vampire facial because it uses the patient's blood to be applied and injected into the face. PRP is part of the blood consisting of two elements, namely plasma and platelets.
Plasma is a yellowish liquid that carries blood cells. While platelets or blood platelets are blood cells that play an important role in the healing process.
Platelets are made up of proteins called growth factors. This growth factor can trigger the production of new cells and stimulate tissue regeneration. Utilization of PRP in the vampire facial is expected to regenerate skin cells so as to improve the condition and youthfulness of the skin.
Vampire Facial Process
The vampire facial procedure is carried out in the following way:
1. Blood draw
This procedure begins with drawing blood from the arm. The amount is about 15–60 ml, depending on the area where the PRP will be injected. The doctor will also apply an anesthetic cream 30 minutes before treatment begins.
2. Blood processing
Next is the processing of blood into PRP. The doctor will insert a rotating device called a centrifuge for 15 minutes to separate the blood components. The result is blood plasma that is rich in platelets.
3. PRP injection
Doctors inject PRP into the patient's facial skin using a syringe or microneedling (a roller-like device with a number of tiny needles). Then, the remaining PRP that is not injected will be applied to the surface of the facial skin.
The vampire facial ends with applying a serum or cream to help soothe redness and irritation. Generally, therapy lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour.
After you undergo this procedure, you are asked to avoid direct sun exposure, use sunscreen when you are outdoors, and not to rub your skin too hard.
Since vampire facials aim to increase skin regeneration, you may not see the results right away. New skin changes will be visible after several treatments.
To get the expected results, you are recommended to do a vampire facial at least 3 times in 1-2 months. If you want to get instant results, you can try a vampire facial combined with hyaluronic acid filler injections.
Benefits of Vampire Facial
The application of PRP to the skin will make the skin cells look as if they are injured, thereby stimulating healing by producing more collagen. Therefore, vampire facials are believed to provide the following benefits:
- Reduces fine lines, stretch marks and acne scars
- Makes pores appear smaller
- Increase skin elasticity and suppleness
- Evens out skin tone
- Makes skin healthier, smoother, glowing
- Disguise eye bags
Although several studies support the benefits of vampire facials, this therapy still requires a lot of research to prove its effectiveness in the world of beauty. In addition, the results may vary from person to person.
Vampire Facial Side Effects to Watch Out for
The vampire facial is a relatively safe procedure if performed by a competent doctor. However, you still need to be aware of the possible side effects.
Swelling and redness are the most common side effects. However, symptoms usually subside within 4–6 days after the procedure. You may also feel pain at the injection site.
The side effect that must be watched out for is the risk of HIV transmission due to the use of unsterile equipment. To prevent this risk, do a vampire facial at a beauty clinic that is handled by a doctor, not at a salon.
Remember that using blood from one's own body is for personal use only. It is not recommended to use the blood of other people, including family or siblings.
Those of you who have a history of herpes simplex, diabetes, blood clotting disorders, inflammatory acne, or skin infections are not advised to do a vampire facial.
If you are interested in undergoing a vampire facial as a beauty treatment, consult a dermatologist first about the benefits and side effects and suitability for your skin condition.