Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that three women were diagnosed with HIV after undergoing “vampire facial” treatments at an unlicensed medical spa in New Mexico. This marks the first documented cases of HIV transmission through cosmetic procedures involving needles.
The investigation conducted from 2018 to 2023 revealed that the clinic in Albuquerque, known as VIP Spa, reused disposable equipment meant for single use, leading to the transmission of HIV to clients through contaminated blood.
Vampire facials, also known as platelet-rich plasma microneedling facials, are cosmetic procedures aimed at rejuvenating the skin, reducing acne scars, and wrinkles. The procedure involves drawing the client’s blood, separating the platelets and cells using a machine, and then injecting the plasma into the face using either single-use disposable or multiuse sterile needles.
These facials have become increasingly popular in recent years, with celebrities like Kim Kardashian endorsing them. While HIV transmission through unsterile injections is a known risk in beauty treatments, the American Academy of Dermatology maintains that vampire facials are generally safe.
Health officials stress the importance of proper infection control measures in spa facilities offering cosmetic injection services and emphasize the need for maintaining thorough client records to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens like HIV.
