Understanding the ‘Vampire Facial’ Procedure
Commonly referred to as a vampire facial when applied to the face, the process involves separating platelets from blood drawn from a vein and reinjecting them using microneedling into areas of the skin such as the scalp, cheeks, and brow. This procedure is believed to accelerate healing and reduce wrinkles, scar visibility, and other blemishes associated with aging.
The Controversy in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico, known to many as the setting of the popular TV show ‘Breaking Bad,’ was home to a day spa that offered ‘Vampire Facials.’ However, six years ago, the New Mexico health department shut down the spa after investigating unsanitary practices that led to the transmission of HIV to five individuals.
Findings by the US CDC
The US Centers for Disease Control recently released a report linking the transmission of HIV to the Albuquerque spa. The report highlighted the case of a woman who tested positive for HIV in 2018 after undergoing a facial procedure at the spa. The investigation was complicated by incomplete spa client records, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper documentation for traceability in such facilities.
Legal Ramifications
As a result of the investigation, spa owner Maria de Lourdes Ramos De Ruiz pleaded guilty to five counts of practicing medicine without a license in 2022. This case underscores the need for stringent regulations and oversight in establishments offering medical procedures.
