Women contract HIV after getting 'vampire facial' at salon

A recent case has brought attention to the unexpected transmission of HIV through a popular cosmetic procedure known as a vampire facial.

The incident involves a woman, along with two others, who likely contracted HIV, a human immunodeficiency virus that attacks the body's immune system, at an unlicensed spa in New Mexico. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). There is currently no effective cure.

This alarming revelation, detailed in a report by the US health agency, Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), highlights the serious risks associated with unregulated establishments that offer both medical and beauty services.

The spa in question was shut down in 2018 for operating without proper licenses and for failing to adhere to safe infection control practices.

Its owner is currently serving a prison sentence for practising medicine without a license, according to the Washington Post.

As per the CDC, the chain of events began when a former client tested positive for HIV in 2018 after undergoing a vampire facial at the spa.

Subsequent investigations uncovered disturbing practices at the facility, including the reuse of equipment meant for single use and the presence of unlabelled blood vials.

Though the exact mechanism of transmission remains unclear, investigators suspect contaminated needles or reused blood vials may have been responsible.

Shockingly, some clients tested positive for HIV shortly after visiting the spa, despite having no known risk factors for the virus.

In response, health officials swiftly moved to warn former spa clients and urged them to undergo HIV testing. No additional cases were identified among nearly 200 clients and their partners who underwent testing.

While vampire facials are generally considered low-risk, this case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring strict adherence to proper hygiene protocols, including the use of new, sterile needles and equipment.

"Requiring adequate infection control practices at spa facilities offering cosmetic injection services can help prevent the transmission of HIV and other bloodborne pathogens. Maintenance of client records could facilitate investigations of suspected transmission at such facilities," CDC said.

Ultimately, this incident stresses the ongoing threat of HIV and highlights the importance of combating stigma surrounding the virus.

HIV can affect anyone, regardless of background or lifestyle, and efforts to eradicate stigma remain paramount in promoting awareness and prevention.

WHAT IS A VAMPIRE FACIAL?

Vampire facials have become popular, especially after beauty mogul Kim Kardashian posted photos on Instagram of her blood-smeared face after undergoing the procedure.

A vampire facial, also known as platelet-rich plasma microneedling, is a procedure where a person's blood is drawn, and the platelets are separated.

These platelets are then injected into the face using tiny needles that just barely go into the skin. People who like this procedure say it can make the skin look better by reducing wrinkles and acne scars.

This happens because the platelets encourage the growth of new skin cells and collagen, which helps give the skin its structure.

Some people also think it's a cheaper and less invasive option compared to getting a surgical facelift.