The risk of contracting HIV through cosmetic procedures

 

A recent report has highlighted the risk of contracting HIV through cosmetic procedures, after three women were infected with the virus following a "vampire facial" treatment at a spa in New Mexico in 2018. The cases are believed to be the first-ever HIV transmissions related to a cosmetic procedure documented in the US.

A "vampire facial" is a colloquial term for platelet-rich plasma (PRP) facials, which involve drawing a patient's blood, separating out platelet-rich plasma, and then injecting it back into the face to stimulate collagen and elastin production. The treatment is said to help repair the skin's barrier and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and acne scars.

However, the New Mexico women contracted HIV after receiving the treatment at an unlicensed spa with multiple unsafe infection control practices. The spa's former owner is serving a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence for practicing medicine without a license.

The CDC investigation revealed that the spa had unlabelled tubes of blood and medical injectables stored in a kitchen fridge, unwrapped syringes scattered in drawers and on counters, and signs of reused blood vials. At least one client had tested positive for HIV before visiting the spa, and the CDC tied the spa to five cases of HIV, including four women who had received the vampire facial treatment and a man who was romantically linked to one of the women.

While the PRP facial treatment itself is considered safe when done correctly, the risk of infection comes from the handling of blood by the facility providing the treatment. It is essential to ensure that the blood is kept sterile and that the facility is licensed and follows proper infection control practices.

Experts advise those looking to get cosmetic treatments to research the provider beforehand, ensure the facility is licensed, and note how medical equipment is being handled by staff. The CDC also warns of the risk of botulism from counterfeit Botox injections and advises researching the treatment provider and ensuring the Botox is FDA-approved and purchased from a reliable source.

In conclusion, while cosmetic procedures like vampire facials can be effective for some skin conditions, it is crucial to prioritize safety and ensure that the facility providing the treatment follows proper infection control practices to minimize the risk of infection.