In your search for the best facial for aging skin or other common skin concerns like acne scars, you’ve likely encountered the buzz surrounding PRP facial treatments, often referred to as vampire facials.
These modern facials have surged in popularity in the last decade, partly due to the attention-grabbing photos shared by celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Bachelor star Keira Maguire. But these photos have also caused people to have a lot of reservations about having the procedure performed.
Vampire facials, which tap into the rejuvenating power of your body’s own platelet-rich plasma (PRP), can look a little intimidating at first glance. But don’t let the pictures of blood-red faces mislead you. While there is a little blood involved, a vampire facial is not as gruesome, painful, or scary as it may seem.
In this article, we will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the vampire facial, covering what it is, what it does, the steps involved in the brief procedure, what to expect in terms of appearance and sensation afterward, and why the fall season is the opportune time to schedule your vampire facial treatment.
What is a Vampire Facial?
A vampire facial, also known as a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) facial, is a medical facial treatment that combines microneedling and the healing properties of your own blood to stimulate collagen production and improve connective tissue functions, resulting in a more youthful, revitalized complexion.
That is what makes a vampire facial so unique and desirable. It relies on your body’s natural resources. No artificial or synthetic substances are used; only your own concentrated blood platelets– pretty neat, right?
Why only the platelets? Platelets contain potent proteins known as growth factors, which play a pivotal role in facilitating the repair of damaged skin. These growth factors are instrumental in the process of skin and tissue repair.
In fact, PRP is so powerful that it is not only suitable for the face but for every part of the body. Athletes like Kobe Bryant, Tiger Woods, and A-Rod have all reportedly used PRP therapy to aid in health and recovery issues. You might have even heard about harnessing PRP to combat balding.
In the context of a PRP facial treatment such as a vampire facial, these platelets are strategically injected into specific areas like the cheeks, neck, jawline, around the eyes, and even the chest, capitalizing on your body’s inherent capacity to heal and rejuvenate, resulting in more youthful and rejuvenated skin.
While the concept of a vampire facial may seem intriguingly eerie, rest assured, the procedure is straightforward and generally painless. It involves a swift blood draw to obtain a small vial of your blood– just a brief needle prick. Most individuals find the actual facial treatment entirely pain-free.
Think of a vampire facial as “microneedling plus” – it combines the benefits of microneedling with the regenerative power of your own blood, resulting in skin that not only looks younger but also feels incredibly refreshed and revitalized.
What are the Benefits of a Vampire Facial?
A vampire facial may sound a bit scary, but we promise it’s not as bad as it sounds. Even if you don’t like needles, the benefits are well worth the tiny prick to draw a vial of blood.
Regarding the facial itself, the needles used to put the platelets back into your skin are so tiny that most people wouldn’t even know that needles are used in the procedure unless we told them! While you might sense slight pressure or a feeling similar to mild scratching during the process, you should not encounter any genuine discomfort.
Vampire facials have many benefits. Here’s why more and more people are turning to this rejuvenating treatment:
Firmer and Smoother Skin
When platelet-rich plasma is gently applied to your skin, it kickstarts cell renewal and encourages the production of collagen and elastin. The result? A firmer, tighter, and more supple complexion that makes you look and feel rejuvenated.
Improved Skin Texture
Beyond just firmness, the treatment can enhance your skin’s texture, making it smoother and more even to the touch.
Reduced Fine Lines and Wrinkles
The collagen and elastin production triggered by PRP can also help smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a more youthful and refreshed look.
More Even Skin Tone
Studies have shown that PRP therapy can effectively reduce melanin production, leading to less hyperpigmentation and a more balanced skin tone. This means fewer age spots and a more radiant complexion.
Scar Improvement
If you’ve been troubled by acne scars, the combination of microneedling with PRP can work wonders. By promoting the growth of fresh skin cells and enhancing the healing process, it visibly diminishes the appearance of scars. Research even suggests a vampire facial can outperform topical treatments like vitamin C.
Natural-Looking Results
One of the key benefits of a vampire facial is that it delivers natural-looking results. You won’t look drastically different, just a more refreshed and youthful version of yourself.
Minimally Invasive
Unlike surgery, the vampire facial is a minimally invasive procedure. There are no incisions or extensive downtime, making it a popular choice for those seeking a non-surgical way to improve their skin.
Long-Lasting Results
While multiple sessions may be required for optimal results, the effects of a single vampire facial can be long-lasting. Most patients say their results stick around for at least 6 months to one year. This means you can enjoy your revitalized skin for an extended period.
Safe and Natural
Since the treatment uses your body’s own plasma, there is practically no risk of an allergic reaction. It is a safe and natural way to enhance your skin without using synthetic substances.
Quick and Convenient
Vampire facials are typically quick procedures, often taking less than an hour, and require minimal downtime. This convenience makes it suitable for those with busy schedules.
Types of Vampire Facials
All vampire facials use your own blood to harness the power of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for skin rejuvenation. However, different methods are used for reintroducing these PRP platelets into your skin to achieve remarkable results.
Vampire Facial with Microneedling
Microneedling is a key technique in the vampire facial process. During this procedure, a device with fine, tiny needles is gently rolled or stamped across the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural healing response, triggering collagen and elastin production.
When combined with PRP application, the platelets deeply penetrate the skin through these microchannels, enhancing the rejuvenation process. This dual action results in improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and a more youthful appearance over time.
Vampire Facial with Fractora
Fractora represents an innovative approach to the vampire facial. This FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment seamlessly merges microneedling with the potency of radiofrequency energy. By doing so, it not only enhances collagen production but also tightens the underlying tissue simultaneously.
The controlled thermal energy delivered by Fractora stimulates collagen remodeling and skin contraction, addressing concerns like wrinkles and sagging skin. When paired with PRP therapy, Fractora maximizes the regenerative effects, leading to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.
Key Differences Between Vampire Facial with Microneedling VS Vampire Facial with Fractora
Essentially, the only difference between a vampire facial with microneedling versus one using Fractora is that regular microneedling does not harness the power of radiofrequency energy, while Fractora does.
In the traditional microneedling method, micro-injuries are created in the skin using fine needles, stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. This approach is well-suited for individuals seeking to address concerns like fine lines and wrinkles.
On the other hand, the Fractora method not only uses microneedles but also introduces radiofrequency energy into the mix. This dual-action treatment triggers collagen production and tightens the underlying tissue. As a result, Fractora is particularly effective for individuals with more pronounced skin laxity and sagging.
It’s essential to note that neither of these vampire facial techniques should be confused with a vampire facelift, which differs significantly. The vampire facelift combines PRP therapy with dermal fillers like JUVÉDERM® to restore facial volume. The PRP is then injected near the filler sites, promoting collagen production and the generation of new skin cells.
If you’re uncertain which vampire facial technique or procedure suits your needs best, don’t hesitate to request a complimentary consultation. Our experts can help you make an informed decision tailored to your unique skincare goals.
What Happens During and After a Vampire Facial?
A vampire facial is a short (30 minutes to an hour), simple, relatively painless two-step process that is typically performed in a clinical office environment, like the one at The Lett Center, that utilizes two proven skin rejuvenation techniques– microneedling and PRP therapy.
First up is a quick and painless blood draw to extract a small vial of your blood. The blood is then carefully processed in a centrifuge machine where it is spun really fast to separate your valuable plasma (the good stuff needed for the vampire facial) from your red blood cells.
Only the concentrated platelets are used in a vampire facial. This is the liquid gold of your blood, so to speak because the platelets are the part of the blood that contains hundreds of proteins called growth factors, which help repair damaged skin.
While the blood is in the centrifuge (or upon arrival before your blood draw), your skin is cleansed, and a topical numbing cream is generously applied to the face to ensure your comfort throughout the needling process.
Once the numbing cream has taken effect, the PRP is introduced into the skin using microneedling or Fractora, allowing it to penetrate beneath the surface and rejuvenate the skin’s appearance and texture. After completing the microneedling, any remaining plasma might be smoothed onto your, where it should stay for the rest of the day.
If you’ve seen any after pictures of a vampire facial, like the ones Kim K posted on her Instagram, the remaining plasma is probably why she looks so “bloody.” In reality, your face looks nothing like that following a vampire facial.
Once the plasma is washed off your face, you might have some small red dots of blood left behind. But other than that, your skin will just look like it has a little bit of a sunburn for about 24 hours, possibly followed by a few days of peeling.
A sunburn is also the best way to describe how your skin will feel following the treatment– a little stingy and itchy, with some dryness and heightened skin sensitivity. This should subside within a few hours to a day. However, if you have sensitive skin, you may experience these sensations for up to 48 hours after the procedure.
You will be provided with detailed after-care instructions. But generally, you will want to avoid wearing makeup or using abrasive skin products, avoid direct sunlight, and do any physical activity where you will sweat for about 24 hours. Other than that, you should be able to resume all normal activities.
How Long Will It Take to See Results From a Vampire Facial, and How Long Do They Last?
The timeline for seeing results from a vampire facial can vary from person to person, but most of our clients start noticing improvements within a few weeks after the procedure. These improvements typically continue to develop over the following months as your skin’s collagen production increases and damaged skin is gradually replaced with healthier tissue.
The longevity of the results can also vary based on individual factors and the specific concerns being addressed. However, many people enjoy the benefits of a vampire facial for several months to a year or more.
To maintain and optimize the results, ensure that you should follow your provider’s post-treatment instructions. It is also suggested to schedule periodic maintenance treatments and maintain a good medical-grade skincare regimen.
Your healthcare provider can offer more personalized information about the expected timeline for results and how often you might benefit from follow-up treatments based on your unique skin and goals.
Who Should and Should Not Get a Vampire Facial?
Whether you’re seeking that youthful radiance or aiming to maintain your skin’s vitality, a vampire facial can help rejuvenate your appearance and restore that coveted glow.
Ideal candidates for a vampire facial include men and women with fine lines and wrinkles, high levels of sun damage, acne scars, or anyone who desires a fresher, more even-toned complexion.
However, there are certain situations where caution is warranted. If you have a history of blood diseases, particularly clotting or bleeding disorders, it’s essential to approach PRP treatments cautiously. These conditions may increase the risk of complications during the procedure. You should consult your doctor before proceeding with a vampire facial to ensure the procedure is safe and suitable for your unique needs.
Additionally, if you have an active eczema outbreak, it’s best to postpone a vampire facial until your skin condition has cleared. Eczema-prone skin can be highly sensitive and prone to inflammation, and the procedure may exacerbate these symptoms.
Similarly, if you’re experiencing a severe acne outbreak, it’s generally best to wait until the acne is under control before considering a vampire facial. The microneedling and PRP components may further irritate and worsen active acne lesions.
When to Get a Vampire Facial?
A vampire facial is suitable for both men and women of various ages and skin types. Whether you’re concerned about fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, or uneven skin tone, the vampire facial procedure can be customized to meet your specific needs.
You can get a vampire facial any time of year; however, the fall season offers a unique advantage. Besides the fun Halloween reference in its name, there are practical reasons it is better to get a vampire facial during cooler months.
We have less sun exposure in the fall and winter. This diminished sun exposure is a critical factor for post-treatment care because after a vampire facial, your skin may be more sensitive to UV radiation, and prolonged sun exposure can exacerbate this sensitivity.
Fall and winter provide a less intense climate in terms of sun, making it the perfect time for a vampire facial. This lower sun exposure reduces the risk of sun damage and ensures your skin heals and rejuvenates without the added stress of UV rays. Plus, the cooler temperatures are often more comfortable for post-treatment recovery.
Where to Get a Vampire Facial in Middle Tennessee?
When considering a vampire facial, do your research, check out before and after pictures, ask for credentials, and inquire about the provider’s experience and reputation in the field to make an informed decision about your treatment.
A vampire facial is considered a medical facial. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek out a board-certified practitioner with expertise in cosmetic surgery, cosmetic medicine, or dermatology, as they can assess your specific skin needs, customize the treatment plan, and ensure the procedure is conducted safely and effectively.
At The Lett Center, we have a highly skilled team of board-certified skin experts who are experienced in performing the vampire facial procedure using both microneedling and Fractora.
While it’s true that the term “vampire facial” carries a playful Halloween vibe, the fall season offers more than just a fitting name. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, fall becomes the perfect time to consider this treatment. Contact us today to book a complimentary consultation with one of our vampire facial experts!