Can vampire facials or botox injections give you HIV?
People often undergo various procedures for their face and body to look a certain way. However, if these procedures are not performed properly and with care, they can result in life-threatening conditions.
What
The New Mexico Department of Health on July 5 announced a case of HIV that has been linked to a "vampire facial" performed at an Albuquerque spa, which ceased operations in 2018. This HIV patient reported the vampire facial as the only 'HIV-risk thing' they had gotten done back in 2018.
Consequently, the Department of Health has reopened its investigation into the spa and advised former clients who received injection-related services, such as vampire facials or Botox, to undergo testing once again for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
'HIV cases'
The spa was closed down in 2018 following a state inspection that identified the spa in Albuquerque of following 'unsafe practices', capable of transmitting blood-borne infections to clients.
And in June 2022, the owner of the spa pleaded guilty to practising medicine without a license.
So far, there have been a few reported HIV cases related to the spa, including two back in 2019.
(This is a developing case and the investigation is on)
By the way, what is a vampire facial and botox anyway?
Dr Deepti Rana, a dermatologist based in Noida, tells DailyO that it is a kind of treatment or facial for your skin.
Now, botox is completely different from vampire facials. Botox is a cosmetic treatment involving an injection into muscles, temporarily paralysing them and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Are these procedures safe?
Before discussing any other side-effects of these procedures, let us first see if they can actually cause, HIV, hepatitis B or C.
Dr Sujit Shanshanwal, a dermatologist from Mumbai who has been doing vampire facials and botox for the past ten years, explains, "The procedure of botox does not require any blood."
However, he further explains that in any procedure involving needles, such as vampire facials or botox, if the person performing or handling the needle has HIV and accidentally pricks themselves with the needle before injecting it into the patient, it can transmit HIV.
Dr Anupama Bisaria, a dermatologist, from Noida, says that, at multiple points, the patient is coming in contact with the needle.
She also says, "A spa is not a place where you should ever undergo any blood-related procedures. It is generally because these people are not properly trained, and try to cut corners, and they do not understand the implications."
So, any kind of blood-related procedure should be undergone at a recognised clinic; not at a spa; and patients should also make sure that the items used in the process are disposable.
Experts say that the procedure, if done with due precautions, is safe.
However, here are some other side-effects of these procedures, according to experts:
First, botox:
1. Temporary muscle weakness: Botox can cause temporary weakness or paralysis in nearby muscles, which may lead to difficulty in performing certain facial expressions or movements.
2. Injection site reactions: Some individuals may experience redness, swelling, pain, or bruising at the injection site. These reactions are usually temporary and resolve on their own.
3. Eyelid drooping or asymmetry: Botox injections near the eyes can occasionally cause temporary eyelid drooping or unevenness in facial appearance. These effects are generally mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks.
In some cases, it can lead to muscle paralysis, if the procedure is not done properly.
It's important to note that these side-effects are generally temporary and vanish without intervention. However, it's crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure to understand the potential risks and benefits specific to your situation.
Now, if you are getting a vampire facial, keep these side-effects in mind:
1. Infection: Vampire facials involve microneedling and the application of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) obtained from the person's own blood. If proper sterilisation techniques are not followed or if the equipment used is not sterile, there is a risk of infection at the treatment site.
2. Skin irritation or redness: Microneedling during a vampire facial can cause temporary skin irritation, redness, or sensitivity. This is a common side-effect that is usually resolved within a few days or weeks.
3. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to components of the PRP or other substances used during the vampire facial. Allergic reactions can manifest as itching, rash, or swelling at the treatment site.
Bottomline: It's crucial to have vampire facials or any other procedure performed by a qualified and experienced professional who follows proper hygiene and safety protocols.