Overview | Benefits | Pre-treatment Steps | Risks | Future Care
I see a lot of patients coming into the clinic asking me about the latest trend that they read about on beauty websites known as the vampire facial. Favored by A-list celebrities like Kim Kardashian West and Bar Refaeli, this facial may sound scary, but it is actually a simple process that can effectively rejuvenate your skin.
So, if you, too, have been seeking a vampire facial, here is all that you need to know on this treatment.
What is a vampire facial?
A vampire facial is also known as a Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) facial. In this treatment, blood is drawn from the patient’s arm and processed in order to separate platelet rich plasma (PRP) from the other components of blood. This PRP, which is transparent fluid (free blood cells), is then reinserted into the facial areas to be treated via microneedling. The entire process helps to promote the rejuvenation of elastin fibers and collagen and heal the skin while giving it a more youthful appearance. Harvard Health Publishing notes that the rejuvenation power comes from platelets that have growth factors in them.
An additional research that I want to quote here is from the National Center for Biotechnology Information; it notes how PRP treatments are used in many areas of medical care such as orthopedics and burn treatments, as it helps marvelously heal and rejuvenate.
What are some of the benefits of a vampire facial?
I personally recommend the vampire facial as it helps to strengthen the skin’s production of elastin and collagen for a youthful glow and tight skin. Its wide list of benefits includes:
- Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
- Minimizing pores
- Healing acne scars
- Improving the absorption rate of skin products
- Making the skin appear fresh and plump
- Improving the skin texture and tone
- Reducing dark circles
- Improving the glow and brightness of the skin
- Reducing skin pigmentation
- Improving neck and hand rejuvenation
In addition to these, the American Academy of Dermatology notes how PRP treatment can help improve complexion and reduce deep creases in the skin.
What does the pre-treatment preparation entail?
Prior to your vampire facial treatment at The Bombay Skin Clinic, I instruct my patients on some skin care tips to follow. This will include no tanning and no sun exposure. You would need to arrive for your facial with no makeup applied as well.
What does the vampire facial procedure entail?
During the actual process of treatment, your skin is administered anesthesia. Then blood is drawn from your arm. This is processed in a centrifuge to separate the plasma from the rest of the blood components. This plasma is then injected via microneedling technique into your skin to stimulate the healing process. After the vampire facial, your skin will be soothed with a cream or some ice.
Once your treatment is done, your skin will start healing itself the natural way over the course of around three months. So, you will gradually see results. Remember that these results can vary between patients.
What are the advantages of a vampire facial over other facial types?
One of the main advantages of a vampire facial is that it uses the patient’s own blood. So, there is hardly any chance of allergy or rejection of the plasma. Also, the results can last for almost 18 months, which cannot be said of many other facials.
Vampire facial or PRP facial, uses one’s own internal components of blood cells. These are responsible for cell growth, healing, tissue regeneration, and oxidative stress; so, it helps in healing and rejuvenation action.
At The Bombay Skin Clinic, I use Arthrex ACP (2nd generation PRP ), a patented treatment, which is and USFDA –approved. It is more superior than any other PRP tubes available in the market, as it has few distinct advantages:
- It doesn’t have any anti-coagulant, so there is no chance of reaction and it is less painful
- It has more concentration of platelets and growth factors, providing better results
So, it is always best to find out from your doctor/clinic which PRP tubes are going to be used for the treatment.
What will the treatment feel like?
A lot of my patients have concerns as to how much the treatment will hurt. The treatment is almost painless. You will feel very minor discomfort. Again, each person’s tolerance levels for pain differs. Also, do note that the treatment results in a bit of inflammation and bruising, as it is a minimally invasive procedure. So, you need to be prepared for these side-effects. I always give my patients a proper aftercare regime to help manage this.
How often do I need a vampire facial?
Once you have your initial session of a vampire facial, the dermatologist will advise you on when you need to drop by next. Skipping a follow-up will impact the effect of your treatment. However, some patients do not need more than one session to see good results. The frequency of your facial will vary based on your skin condition so your dermatologist will advise you on how often you need a treatment. Generally, I recommend a session once every three to four weeks, and at least three to four sessions should be performed for long-lasting results.
How long does a vampire facial last?
The dermatologist will apply an anesthetic to your face and leave it on for at least 30 minutes. During this time, they will draw blood from your arm. The next step of microneedling the plasma back into the face should last another 30 minutes. So, the whole procedure should take a little over an hour.
Are there any risks to be aware of?
A vampire facial is completely safe if performed by a certified medical expert in hygienic settings. Always make sure that your dermatologist uses clean syringes. There is only a minor risk if the patient faces any kind of blood clotting issues, so you should discuss these with your dermatologist. I personally ask my patients in detail about their medical history, previous skin treatments, medications being taken, and the like. If all these do not present a problem, the procedure is safe and risk-free.
What are the steps for immediate and future skin care?
After a vampire facial, you should follow your dermatologist’s instructions on skin care to ensure that you get the best out of your results. I usually advise my patients to avoid any kind of heavy exercise that will result in heavy sweating at least for two to three days. Also, avoid applying too many products to your skin. You should especially stay away from alcohol-based products. Skip any heavy or harsh exfoliation. Do not forget to follow up with your dermatologist as per the recommended schedule.
Closing thoughts
If you are seeking the ultimate solution to tackling your skin problems, a vampire facial is just the answer. Do not let the scary name fool you; this treatment has been tried and tested all over the world and has proved itself every time. Head over to your dermatologist today for tighter, brighter, and refreshed skin.
References
- The American Academy of Dermatology: https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/younger-looking/platelet-rich-plasma-secret-to-younger-skin
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30327852
- Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/platelet-rich-plasma-therapy
Dr. Batul Patel is a celebrity dermatologist and the medical director of The Bombay Skin Clinic an award winning clinic located in South Mumbai & Bandra. She is a passionate and dedicated dermatologist with expertise in all fields of dermatology, trichology and aesthetic dermatology. She has been practicing for more than a decade. Her range of expertise include emsculpt NEO, coolsculpting, fillers, acne treatment, lasers, skin rejuvenation, hair loss, hair transplant, PRP & pigmentation treatments.