The "Vampire Face" Becomes a Real Horror When N.M. Spa's Clients Face HIV Testing: NPR

The vampire's face was only supposed to sound scary. Of course, the blood must be extracted from the patient, the platelet-rich plasma isolated by rotating it in a centrifuge and then re-injected into the face. But the results are touted to be rejuvenated, smooth and supple skin, not a fear of HIV or hepatitis, as VIP spa customers in Albuquerque, New Mexico, are now facing.

Health officials say those who received vampires' facial treatment – or any other type of injection-related service – at the spa between May and June 2018 risked contracting a blood-borne disease.

The New Mexico Department of Health urges them to get free testing for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, as well as for free counseling.

A department spokesman told NPR that it was still early in the investigation, no further infections were identified.

The department was notified after a spa client developed an infection that may result from an intervention performed by the VIP spa.

Health officials and regulators conducted an inspection and found problems with storing, handling and disposing of needles.

KOAT-TV reports that the New Mexico Department of Regulatory and Licensing has stated that the spa's owner, Luly Ruiz, was not allowed to perform the surgery because it was not a health professional.

Ruiz defended her use of the treatment, saying that she only used disposable needles.

"I open them in front of my clients whenever they come," Ruiz told Albuquerque Station.

She added that she cooperates with state officials and encourages customers who are worried about getting tested.

"I want everyone to be safe, everyone is happy and know that they have nothing," Ruiz told the station.

For the moment, the New Mexico Department of Regulation and Licensing has closed the facility while an investigation is ongoing. A hearing is scheduled for Friday in the case.

Vampire facials have gained popularity, thanks in part to selfish celebrities extolling their benefits.

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, writes that "platelet-rich plasma contains growth factors that are supposed to stimulate the growth of collagen and healthy skin cells." He adds that the procedure is safe even if pains and bruises can occur.

Physicians, especially in sports medicine, have also used treatment – known as platelet-rich plasma therapy – to try to soothe inflamed tissue and help wounds recover faster.

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says laboratory studies show that "the increased concentration of growth factors in the PRP can potentially accelerate the healing process."