The term “vampire facial” has been used to refer to a facial that combines microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP); the procedure is also known as microneedling with PRP. Microneedling is a non-invasive skin procedure that uses needle penetration to create dermal injury to stimulate wound repair and promote the production of collagen. The PRP solution is made with a small sample of your blood, which many people prefer because no foreign substances are injected into the body. What makes vampire facials unique from other microneedling procedures is that the PRP is injected into the microscopic needles as an adjunct to regular microneedling. When microneedling and PRP are used together they provide a deeper treatment for patients dealing with acne, age spots, fine wrinkles, thinning skin, large pores, uneven skin texture, stretch marks, and hair loss. Using microneedling and PRP together also allows for a speedier recovery, while simultaneously allowing for deeper absorption and more even distribution of the PRP.
The Growing Popularity of Vampire Facials
Vampire facials have recently become a lot more popular due to celebrities sharing them as part of their beauty secrets to achieving beautiful, glowing skin. The vampire facial has also become well known because of its interesting name. The term “vampire facial” came to be a nickname for microneedling with PRP because the procedure involves topically applying a solution containing your own blood. Several images of celebrities faces covered in blood have gone viral, which has grabbed the attention of many people and caused them to become interested in the treatment. Microneedling is also becoming increasingly more popular because it is able to give people the beautiful skin they want, without the risks and downtime that is associated with other procedures.
The Vampire Facial Process
The vampire facial has gotten a bad reputation for being scary and painful, but that is far from the truth. The procedure is actually relatively painless aside from the initial needle pinch. Many people also imagine that their blood is just applied straight to their face, which is also false. Depending on the size of the targeted area and the number of units required, your procedure will most likely last upwards of 30 minutes.
Your blood will be drawn and then run through a centrifuge to isolate the platelets. While using blood as part of a facial can seem gross or a gimmick, it is actually one of the most advanced techniques to improve the quality of the skin. The procedure begins with you clinician applying a local anesthetic to the targeted areas to help minimize any potential pain or discomfort. Microneedling is performed with a professional needling device which is known as a Micropen. This Micropen is applied to your skin using circular motions to create tiny wounds. Following this, the PRP solution is massaged into the treated area for effective penetration. To help minimize inflammation, a smoothing serum will be added to the area as the final step in your procedure. You can expect for your skin to be red and have the appearance and feel of a sunburn. Downtime for the procedure is typically only a day or two.
Benefits and Risks of Microneedling with PRP
One of the major benefits of microneedling is that it offers the same benefits of fractional lasers, but the procedure is more cost and time efficient. Side effects are very uncommon, so you can go into this procedure stress-free. Microneedling also has the added benefit of strengthening your epidermis overtime because the small wounds it creates continuously improve and heal. Another major benefit of microneedling is that is well tolerated and well accepted by patients so it can be done on all skin types.
You can expect your face to feel tight, warm, and itchy (like a sunburn) for 12-48 hours following the procedure. Local antibiotics creams may be prescribed, but infections are very unlikely because the pricking channels close within 60 to 90s minutes after the procedure. Your skin will also be very sensitive to the sun, so it is advised to avoid it as much as possible and wear sunscreen when exposure it possible. You may experience swelling and bruising.
If microneedling is performed correctly, the risk of side effects is very small. This is why it is very important to do your research and make sure you are going to a medical spa (like Elume Medspa) where the clinicians are skilled and experienced. If you are interested in more information about a vampire facial or scheduling your own treatment, reach out to Elume Medspa.
Ready to Elum-Inate Your Skin?
At Elume Med Spa, we are passionate about helping our customers look and feel their best. That’s why we offer a range of high-quality skincare products that are designed to deliver real results. From cleansers to serums, our online store has everything you need to create an at-home skincare routine that will leave you feeling confident and radiant. Plus, our expert team has carefully selected each and every product to ensure that you are getting the best possible care. Shop now and discover the benefits of our top-rated products for yourself.
[WD_Button id=1029]
