"Vampire facials" at an unlicensed spa infected three people with HIV, CDC finds
CBSN
A cosmetic process known as a "vampire facial" is considered to be a more affordable and less invasive option than getting a facelift, but the process can be a serious health hazard if done in unsanitary conditions, according to a new report.
That proved to be the case for three women who likely contracted HIV from receiving vampire facials at an unlicensed spa in New Mexico, making the first known cases of the virus being transmitted during a cosmetic injection procedure, according to the findings published Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
During a vampire facial, a person's blood is drawn from their arm, and then platelets are separated out and applied to the patient's face using microneedles, according to one skin clinic. The procedure, also called platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is touted by proponents as helping to reduce pore size and fine lines as well as rejuvenating the skin.
Two women were found dead and a 5-year-old girl critically injured at a park near Clovis, New Mexico, authorities said Sunday, as the FBI vowed to bring justice following what it called "horrific acts." Meanwhile, police said they are searching for an abducted 10-month-old girl, who is the daughter of one of the victims. No suspect has been identified yet in the case.