Vampire facial refers to microneedling with PRP. The procedure involves repeatedly puncturing the skin with fine sterile needles while applying platelet rich plasma, with the aim of ‘tricking’ the cells into ‘thinking’ the skin’s surface is injured. This triggers an acceleration of the healing cascade and subsequent stimulation of collagen production.
How Is The Blood Used For Vampire Facial Gotten?
Blood is withdrawn just like in regular blood tests, put in a specially prepared vial then the vial is spun in a centrifuge for some minutes to separate the blood components.
The component of the blood needed for vampire facial is the Plasma. This component of blood is commonly referred to as Liquid Gold because of its value. However, the entire plasma isn’t needed for the procedure. For superior results, the buffy coat is used. This buffy coat is a combination of concentrated platelets and white blood cells from the whole blood sample.
Buffy coat is part of the platelet rich plasma, the lowest part of the plasma while the topmost part of the plasma is the platelet poor plasma. Although the upper part of the plasma contains plasma, it is not as concentrated as the buffy coat.
Vampire facial has been widely debated ever since Kim Kardashian West underwent the procedure during an episode of “Kim and Kourtney Take Miami“. The thought of using one’s own blood on the face in the name of beauty may sound like taking beauty and cosmetics a bit too far. However, the benefits of microneedling with PRP (vampire facial) cannot be overemphasized.
Uses And Benefits Of Vampire Facial (microneedling with PRP)
- Skin rejuvenation with improvement in skin texture and tone.
- Helps to improve the appearance of acne or chickenpox scarring.
- Speeds up the healing process after some chemical peels.
- Helps to eliminate fine wrinkles.
- Pigmentation problems and sun damage.
How Long Does Results From Vampire Facial Last?
Multiple treatments may be required for best results depending on the skin concern. PRP builds up over time so, about 2 to 3 treatments done 2 to 3 months apart for skin rejuvenation or antiaging benefits will give results that can last up to 18 months. *Read: ANTI-AGING SKINCARE – 5 TIPS THAT WILL TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN.
It is important to note that one’s lifestyle can affect how soon results are seen. Heavy alcohol and cigarette users would take longer to see results. Smoking naturally interferes with the body’s ability to heal under any circumstances.
*Read: YOUR SKIN REFLECTS YOUR LIFESTYLE
Side Effects Of Vampire Facial
- pain during the procedure
- light bleeding during the procedure
- redness
- bruising
- tingling sensation within the skin
- risk of infection and scarring from the needles
Majority of these side effects are temporary and can be further minimized by going to a professional to carry out the procedure. Pain during the procedure can be significantly reduced by using topical anaesthesia prior to the procedure. Subsequent pain and redness typically disappear with 24-48 hours after the procedure.
Vampire Facial Isn’t For Everyone – Factors That Can Disqualify You
- Pre-existing low platelet count
- An active infection
- Open wounds and/or signs of poor wound healing
- Existing health conditions such as diabetes, cancer.
- Pregnancy
- Taking blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants)
- Tendency to develop keloids / raised scars
Those with advanced signs of aging are another group of potential candidates who may not experience effective results. Botox and Fillers may be better options for such people.
*Read: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FILLERS AND BOTOX INJECTIONS?
If vampire facials appeal to you or you have any of the listed concerns that would benefit from this platelet rich plasma therapy, we are just a call and visit away in Abuja!
You can reach us on 09086000001 between 9am to 6pm, Mondays to Saturdays to book your appointment!
