An In-depth Guide To The Popular Vampire Facial

The Vampire Facial took the world by storm. It has gone viral all over social media with celebrities and influencers all boasting about having the treatment done.

The latest treatment trend in skincare has been dubbed the "vampire facial" because of its bloody nature. It boasts big results but appears equally as scary. Here is everything you need to know before committing to the treatment.

What Is A Vampire Facial?

The treatment is a combination of a microdermabrasion and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) application.

"The PRP is derived from the serum portion of the blood, which contains platelets. The platelets contain high levels of growth factors, which, when applied to the skin, will stimulate cell turnover."

explains Beverly Hills-based dermatologist Ava Shamban

In simple terms, the treatment uses your own blood. Blood is comprised of red blood cells and serum, which contain our white blood cells and platelets.

The Process

The treatment begins with venipuncture to draw the blood needed for later. The blood is then run through a centrifuge to isolate the platelets to create the PRPs.

The client then undergoes micro-needling or microdermabrasion on their face. This is followed by the PRPs being applied to the skin. Sometimes, this step is combined with a radio frequency.

Recovery

While technically the facial does not require downtime, it is advised to rest for a day or two. The length of time you will need to rest will depend on how aggressive the microdermabrasion was on your skin.

After the treatment, expect your skin to be red and appear sunburnt. It is highly recommended to apply sunscreen and avoid makeup for a few days after the treatment.

Benefits:

The growth factors in platelets provide the skin with an energy boost that helps our skin function optimally. This results in an increase in things like collagen and elastin.

The treatment also reportedly acts as an antioxidant as well as hydrates the skin. Thus the biggest claim of the treatment is that it will PRP have an instant anti-aging, rejuvenating effect as well as "helping with scarring and pigmentation."

"Platelet-rich plasma is now commonly used topically as part of a regular facial, used along with microneedling to enhance penetration into the skin, and is even being injected into the skin in the same manner as dermal fillers,"

says Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

Who Is It Best For?

The treatment is perfect for those who are showing early signs of aging. It works well for premature wrinkles, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone.

It is advised to avoid it if you have a history of blood diseases, including clotting or bleeding disorders. Pregnant women should be cautious as the pain medication and numbing cream used during the treatment may not be pregnancy safe.

How much does it cost?

Not to mention, it is usually recommended to combine it with various other treatments. Thus be prepared to be setback a hefty amount.

Kardashian Reviews Of The Procedure

One of the biggest reason's the facial rose to fame was Kim Kardashian's infamous selfie of her experience with the treatment. However, Kim recently opened up about her feelings about the facial a few years after getting it.

At the time of the facial, she had been pregnant and thus did the facial without the recommended pain killer making it a very uncomfortable experience. She said:

"A few years ago, I heard about a 'vampire facial,' and I was so intrigued. It was really rough and painful for me. It was honestly the most painful thing ever! It's the one treatment that I'll never do again. Though it wasn't for me, I know it has so many benefits for your skin. Kourtney is a huge fan and I know a lot of other people that love it, too."