Vampire facials have become more popular than ever in the cosmetic surgery industry thanks to their endorsement by celebrities and influencers. But what exactly are they, and are they worth all h the hype? In this article, we will explore the world of vampire facials and uncover their secrets.
What is a Vampire Facial?
A vampire facial, scientifically known as micro-needling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), is a cosmetic procedure that combines the science of micro-needling with the healing properties of your blood. The name might sound intimidating, but the procedure is less scary than it sounds. The vampire facial was created by Dr. Charles Runnell and popularized by Dr Robert H Cohen, MD.
Microneedling: The Foundation of Vampire Facials
Microneedling is a process that involves the use of tiny, fine needles to create micro-injuries on the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, producing collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): The ‘Vampire’ in Vampire Facials
PRP is derived from your blood. It’s a concentrated source of growth factors, proteins that play a crucial role in healing and tissue repair. When applied to the skin after micro-needling, PRP can penetrate deeper into the skin, enhancing the healing and rejuvenating effects of the treatment.
The Vampire Facial Procedure: Step-by-Step
The vampire facial procedure is typically performed in a clinical setting and involves several steps:
- Blood Draw: The procedure begins with a simple blood draw from your arm.
- Separation of PRP: The drawn blood is placed in a centrifuge, a machine that spins at high speed to separate the PRP from the rest of the blood components.
- Microneedling: After applying a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort, the skin is treated with a micro-needling device.
- Application of PRP: The PRP is then applied to the skin, where it can penetrate deeply, thanks to the microchannels created by microneedling.
The Benefits of Vampire Facials
There are numerous positive effects of vampire treatments, such as:
- Enhanced skin cell turnover
- Improved skin tone and texture
- Reduction of fine lines and signs of aging
- Treatment of acne scars and sun damage
| Benefits of Vampire Facials | Description |
|---|---|
| Enhanced skin cell turnover | Vampire facials promote the renewal of skin cells, resulting in healthier, fresher looking skin. |
| Improved skin tone and texture | Through the action of PRP and micro-needling, vampire facials can help to even out skin tone and improve the overall texture. |
| Reduction of fine lines and signs of aging | Vampire facials stimulate collagen production which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful appearance. |
| Treatment of acne scars and sun damage | The process of micro-needling can assist in the healing of acne scars, while the PRP application can help reverse sun damage. |
Who is a Good Candidate for Vampire Facials?
While most people can benefit from vampire facials, they are particularly beneficial for individuals with wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, or uneven skin tones. However, those with blood diseases, including clotting or bleeding disorders, may not be suitable candidates.
The Bottom Line
Vampire facials offer a surgical, minimally invasive way to achieve younger brighter looking skin. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or skincare professional before undergoing any procedure. Typically, only cosmetic surgeons do vampire facials. Most times, med-spas don’t offer them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does a vampire facial take? A: The entire process, including the blood draw, separation of PRP, microneedling, and application of PRP, usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half.
Q2: Is the procedure painful? A: A topical numbing cream is applied before the procedure to minimize discomfort. Most patients describe the sensation as a light prickling.
Q3: How many sessions will I need? A: The number of sessions needed varies depending on individual skin conditions and desired results. Your skincare professional can provide a personalized treatment plan.
Q4: Are there any side effects? A: After the treatment, you may experience some redness and sensitivity, similar to a mild sunburn. These effects typically subside within a few days.
Q5: Can I wear makeup after a vampire facial? A: Avoiding makeup for at least 24 hours after the procedure is recommended to allow the skin to heal and absorb the PRP effectively.
Q6: How soon will I see the results? A: Some improvements can be seen immediately, but the full results typically appear after a few weeks as the skin rejuvenates and produces more collagen.
Q7: How long do the results last? A: The results of a vampire facial can last several months, and can be maintained with regular follow-up treatments as advised by your skincare professional.