Vampire Facial
Introduction
The vampire facial, also called a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) facial, is a cosmetic treatment that rejuvenates the skin by using the patient’s own blood. According to the theory behind the vampire facial, PRP includes growth factors and other proteins that can encourage the production of collagen and enhance the skin’s overall texture and appearance. The procedure’s proponents assert that it can help improve skin tone and structure while reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. To ensure safe and successful results, it’s crucial to select a qualified skincare expert with previous expertise performing vampire facials. Before having the procedure, patients should address their medical background, skin concerns, and expectations with their provider.
Pathophysiology
The vampire facial’s pathophysiology, also known as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment, uses the patient’s own blood to stimulate the production of collagen and enhance the skin’s overall texture and appearance. A small quantity of blood is drawn from the patient’s arm and put in a centrifuge machine during a vampire facial, which separates the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from the other blood components. The PRP is then injected into the face using a microneedling tool, which makes microscopic holes in the epidermis to aid the PRP’s deeper penetration.
The growth factors and other proteins in PRP, when applied to the skin, can encourage the creation of collagen and enhance the skin’s overall texture and appearance. A protein called collagen serves to give skin its elasticity and lessen the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles. The micro-needling device’s punctures also encourage the body’s natural healing process, which can further enhance the skin’s general health and look.
Side Effects
After a vampire facial or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, it is common to experience some mild side effects that may include:
- Redness: Immediately following treatment, the skin may look slightly red or pinkish. This is a typical reaction to microneedling and should go away in a few hours to a day.
- Swelling: The treatment region, particularly the area around the eyes, may experience some degree of swelling or puffiness.
- Slight pain or discomfort: During or after the procedure, patients may feel some slight pain or discomfort.
- Bruising: Bruising can happen where the blood was drawn or where the shot was given. Usually, this is minor and goes away in a few days.
- Dryness or flakiness: For a few days after the procedure, the epidermis may feel dry or flaky.
- Itching: As the epidermis heals, some patients may experience mild itching.
How do Dermatologists do Vampire Facial?
Dermatologists perform the vampire facial, also known as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, using the following steps:
- Blood draw: Similar to a typical blood test, a tiny amount of blood is taken from the patient’s arm.
- Centrifugation: The platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is separated from the other blood components by spinning the blood in a centrifuge equipment.
- Micro-needling: Tiny punctures are made in the skin with a micro-needling tool to allow the PRP to penetrate deeply.
- PRP application: To promote collagen production and enhance the general texture and appearance of the skin, PRP is next applied to the skin, either directly or using a microneedling tool.
- Post-treatment care: The patient will be provided instructions on how to take care of their skin while it heals, and the skin may be treated with a calming cream or ointment.
The complete procedure typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, and patients can resume their regular activities right away. For several weeks following the operation, patients should, however, refrain from going outside in the sun and frequently apply sunscreen.
Before & After Treatment Images
