Three women diagnosed with HIV after receiving 'vampire facial' at unauthorized clinic

In a shocking incident, three women have contracted HIV from a ‘vampire facial’ procedure they received in 2018 at an unauthorized clinic in New Mexico. This marks the first known cases of HIV transmission through a cosmetic procedure involving needles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the USA released a report confirming these cases.

The investigation began when a woman in her forties or fifties tested positive for HIV while overseas. Strangely, the woman denied any history of drug use, blood transfusions, or engaging in sexual activity with anyone other than her partner. However, she did mention receiving a facial treatment in New Mexico.

This led the CDC to investigate the clinic where she received the facial. It was revealed that the clinic was operating without a license and practicing “multiple unsafe infection control practices.” The staff had been reusing disposable equipment meant for single use and storing unlabeled blood and medical injectables in the kitchen refrigerator alongside food. Unwrapped syringes were also found scattered throughout the premises.

The woman had undergone a ‘vampire facial,’ a procedure known as microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). This technique involves drawing blood from the patient, separating the plasma, and injecting it into the face to stimulate skin rejuvenation. It is believed to help reduce wrinkles and acne scars by promoting the production of collagen and elastin.

Further investigation by the CDC revealed that at least one other client had tested positive for HIV before visiting the clinic, pointing to clear malpractice. As a result, the clinic was shut down by the state health department, and the owner was sentenced to prison for practicing medicine without a license. This case serves as a grim reminder of the importance of strict regulations and adherence to safe medical practices.