VAMPIRE FACIAL
PRP facial uses your own blood.
PRP Facial
A vampire facial can be useful for those who have scars, wrinkles or sun damage.
What could be mistaken for Halloween makeup is actually a skin-care treatment often referred to as a "vampire facial," or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.
PRP Vampire Facial
at a Glance
Basically, a mask made out of a component of your very own blood — not anyone else's — is injected all over your face to rejuvenate your complexion. As terrifying as this technique may seem, it actually boasts impressive, virtually painless results that will have your skin glowing.
PRP facials are medical, rather than cosmetic procedures. Your medical team first takes a small amount of your blood.
Then, they spin it in a centrifuge to extract protein-rich plasma. Next, they extract platelets. Finally, they concentrate the sample, creating what is called platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
While doctors and dermatologists recently started using PRP to stimulate collagen production, orthopaedic doctors have injected PRP to heal injured joints — typically ankles, knees and elbows — for many years.
It’s the high amount of growth factors in PRP that help your body heal.
Who benefits most from PRP treatments?
Those with premature wrinkles, high levels of sun damage, or anyone who desires a fresher, more even-toned complexion are ideal candidates for the vampire facial. However, if you have a history of blood diseases, including clotting or bleeding disorders, you should avoid PRP treatments.
If you decide to have a PRP facial, prepare to have your blood drawn. You can also expect some pain and slight post-treatment bruising from the microneedling.
The PRP procedure is safe for almost everyone, except for those with clotting conditions that require blood thinners or people with other blood-related health issues.
If you opt for a vampire facial, you will need a series of treatments 4 to 6 weeks apart to achieve the best results. You might also need additional maintenance procedures as time passes.