Vampire facials have earned a reputation for producing impressive results. According to Kim Nichols, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of NicholsMD, the best way to achieve optimal results is “a series of at least six PRP injection treatments, spaced about four weeks apart.” However, patients can still expect to see improvements after just one session, evidenced by the accompanying image. In the case of the patient shown in the above photos, Nichols says, “You can see a visible reduction in redness, diminished acne scarring, and improved overall skin texture.”
What are the risks of getting a PRP facial?
While the sight of blood-splattered selfies may be unnerving, the risks associated with a PRP treatment are minimal since it uses your own blood, says Ramanadham. “There is little risk of reactions,” she adds. Doft shares the same view and cites the potential risks as scarring, sun sensitivity, and infection on the skin surface or at the injection site.
In April 2024, the CDC released a report about HIV transmission linked to PRP facials done at a New Mexico spa. The investigation initially looked at 20 people who had received PRP facials at the spa and were at risk of exposure to HIV. (The team also looked at 39 people who had received other injection services at this location.) The team’s findings showed that three people were found to have HIV infections related to the PRP facials they received at the spa, due to unsterile practices.
The CDC did not name the spa, but in September 2018, the New Mexico Department of Health encouraged clients of VIP Spa who have gotten injectables there to be HIV tested, as it found that the spa in Albuquerque may have exposed patients to pathogens like HIV and hepatitis B and C. (VIP Spa has since shut down.)
“This investigation is the first to associate HIV transmission with non-sterile cosmetic injection services,” says the report. And while this information is certainly unsettling, board-certified Mona Gohara, MD, says it’s not a reason to write off the procedure completely. “People should not stop getting PRP facials,” she says, “This incident is very unfortunate and should never have happened. In the right hands, this procedure is safe.”
How to ensure your safety during a PRP treatment
“Avoid medspas with unlicensed providers,” says Dr. Gohara, emphasizing the importance of seeing a board-certified dermatologist for your PRP facial. Your doctor will likely administer the treatment themselves, or have a licensed physician assistant or nurse practitioner in their practice do so. “They are all under strict safety and infectious disease protocol,” Dr. Gohara adds.
