A CDC notice on a weirdly emerging beauty trend referred to as the “Vampire Facial” was released as well. This technique is made of numerous micro-needles across the skin followed by the rubbing of platelet-rich plasma that is derived from the patient’s own blood. Nevertheless, but the CDC pinpoints the infectious risk HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C spreading of in unfollowed safety protocols, if proper safety protocols are not followed according to the CDC, the disease-transmitted risk is enormous, particularly in the case of blood borne diseases like HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
This publication is only dedicated to vampire facial, the hazards subsumed therein and the guidelines that are set by the CDC which guide in the industry in terms of safe practice.
Understanding Vampire Facials: A Bloody Business
Vampire facials, which are better known as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or microneedling facials, are a type of skin-enhancing procedure. Microneedling is a roller equipment with tiny needles which puncture tiny holes in the skin. This controlled injury is going to kick off the healing process that comes from the body and stimulates collagen production which can lead to smoother skin with less fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars.
Vampire facials occur when a small amount of a patient’s blood is withdrawn and centrifuged in order to isolate the PRP component. PRP is a complex fluid that contains growth factors and healing substances. During the microneedling process, the PRP is then topically applied on the face or it can be introduced to the skin by injection. Vampire facials’ proponents assert it to be an effective tool for kicking the sagging of the skin and acquisition of a younger look.
The Lurking Danger: Potential Transmission of Bloodborne Diseases
Most people might fancy vampire facials for the reason of anti-aging, however, CDC has cautioned the general public about the biggest risk of undertaking this procedure- transmission of bloodborne diseases.Here’s why:
- Blood Sharing: In a vampire facial, patients extract their blood and manipulate it. When blood draws and platelet-rich plasma processing don’t fulfill sterilization criteria patients can eventually get Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV transmittable diseases.
- Improper Equipment: Repeated use of needles or syringes can be extremely risky due to the unsterilized equipment used. It may spread different kinds of diseases and raise the risks of infection.
- Unlicensed Providers: Vampire facials are occasionally available for the administration by invisible or inappropriately trained operators in medical spas. Inadequate health trainings and ignorance of the infection prevention rules endanger the lives of patients.
The CDC specifies that even if the patient has a previous negative bloodborn diseases test, there is still a window period when the virus is not detected by the test. This clearly explains the significant issue of having proper security measures in place for the prevention of the spread of the disease.
The CDC’s Call to Action: Prioritizing Safety in Cosmetic Procedures
The CDC has issued a clear message to healthcare providers and the public regarding vampire facials:
- For Healthcare Providers: The CDC requests that healthcare providers proposing vampire facial procedures or those using blood products agree with CMS infection control standards. The complying with these guidelines will include the essential measures for sterilization, disposal of medical waste and contacts.
- For the Public: The CDC recommendation to those individuals who plan for a vampire facials is to ask important questions about the provider’s professional experience, training and qualifications. It is very necessary that the provider is a licensed healthcare practitioner with the relevant skills and knowledge on other sanitary methods. Moreover, ask the medic regarding the sterilization of the equipment as well as the sourcing of the materials used in the PRP preparation.
Seeking Safer Alternatives: Exploring Non-Blood Facials
If you want your skin to improve, different alternative procedures of facial available that don’t contain risks which always associated with vampire facials. Here are some options to consider:
- Microneedling with Hyaluronic Acid: Just the same as vampire facials, this method involves microneedling; however, instead of PRP, the hyaluronic acid is applied topically. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally skin-friendly substance that works to retain moisture and smoothen fine lines.
- Chemical Peels: Chemical peels apply a mildly controlled acid to remove the top layer of the skin. This may improve the skin texture, reduce the acne scar, as well as the leveling of the skin tone.
- Laser Skin Resurfacing: Laser treatments are able to target a specific skin issue like wrinkles, sun damage, or uneven discolouration. Different kinds of lasers achieve their different levels of depth for arriving at customized results.
This is just a few of them and the best policy is to consult a board-certified Dermatologist or licensed Aesthetician to examine your needs and choose the best options for you.
Conclusion
The amazing effect of youthful skin can be overwhelming but it’s highly important not to endanger yourself when you pursue beauty trends. The CDC’s guideline about dangers of vampire facial shows up a sharp lesson about the inherent health risks associated with procedures which involve blood products. Getting safe and knowledgeable healthcare providers who are well equipped with sterile practices will enable individuals to make proper procedure choices consequently reducing the likelihood of acquiring these serious blood born illnesses.