While celebrity experiences with vampire facials have popularized this cosmetic treatment, they’ve also resulted in confusing myths about what’s involved with this approach. The name of the procedure alone conjures thoughts of ingesting blood in the dark of night.
When you look past the hype and novelty, you’ll find that vampire facials combine two popular dermatological procedures — microneedling and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) — to improve cosmetic flaws caused by sun damage, aging, or acne. The results can rejuvenate tired complexions and minimize wrinkles and fine lines. Overall, it can deliver an appearance that’s more youthful and glowing.
You’ll achieve optimal results from a vampire facial by working with a specialist in cosmetic procedures. Winnie King, MD, is a board-certified physician who provides innovative anti-aging treatments in her private practice in Shenandoah and Houston, Texas. Dr. King has the experience and expertise necessary to deliver your vampire facial safely and help you achieve the results you desire.
Below, we’ll set the record straight on some of the myths about vampire facials so you can understand how this treatment really works and whether it might be right for you.
Myth #1: Vampire facials involve cosmetic surgery
A vampire facial is a nonsurgical anti-aging treatment. It begins with a microneedling treatment that uses a handheld instrument to create tiny holes all over the top layer of your skin. This special tool is a roller covered with tiny needles that makes small punctures as it is moved around your face.
Microneedling uses your body’s own healing properties to improve your skin. When your skin experiences damage, your body produces factors including collagen and elastin to facilitate cellular growth. This promotes tissue repair and replacement at sites of the holes or “wounds.” The outcome is the growth of rejuvenated skin that’s firmer and healthy looking.
A vampire facial uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance the cosmetic results of microneedling. Plasma is the portion of your blood that contains the highest concentration of proteins that encourage the growth of cells. Separating the plasma from blood allows Dr. King to use plasma to encourage cell repair at the microneedling sites.
Myth #2: Vampire facials are dangerous
The PRP used in your microneedling procedure is derived from your own blood. Before your procedure, Dr. King draws blood from your arm and then uses a centrifuge to isolate the PRP.
By massaging the PRP into the punctures created by microneedling, Dr. King facilitates your skin’s absorption of the substance. The PRP triggers collagen production, which stimulates healing and tissue regeneration in the punctures.
PRP therapy uses your own blood instead of dermal fillers that contain synthetic materials. You don’t have to worry about having an adverse reaction to PRP because you’re only injecting your own blood back into your body. PRP therapy has been used to stimulate recovery in tendons, muscles, and joints with safe and effective outcomes.
Myth #3: Vampire facials are painful
One of the first steps in preparing for your vampire facial involves the administration of a medical grade numbing cream. This topical anesthetic helps reduce sensation and minimize the amount of discomfort you feel during the procedure.
Patients often report experiencing a warm, scratching feeling during the microneedling procedure. You may experience the most discomfort during microneedling of your forehead, hairline, and jawline, areas where there is more bone and less fat.
Of course, everyone has an individual tolerance for pain. Dr. King and her staff work to ensure that you remain as comfortable as possible. Acetaminophen may help ease any discomfort that lingers after the procedure.
Myth #4: Vampire facials require a long recovery
You’ll be able to leave the office immediately following a vampire facial. The entire procedure usually takes about an hour.
You may experience 12-24 hours of mild redness and minimal swelling. These effects usually can be camouflaged with makeup. Most patients return to work and other normal activities the day following their vampire facial without feeling self-conscious about their appearance.
While your recovery period is minimal, the results of your vampire facial will appear over several weeks. You’ll notice a reduction in pore size and smoothing of skin as collagen production is stimulated. It can take up to six months to get the full effect of a vampire facial.
Find out more about vampire facials and whether they can provide the cosmetic results you desire. Call our Shenandoah or Houston office today for a consultation.