Three Women Diagnosed with HIV After ‘Vampire Facial’ Procedures at Unlicensed Spa
Three women in New Mexico have been diagnosed with HIV after receiving “vampire facial” procedures at an unlicensed medical spa, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The spa, VIP Spa, located in Albuquerque, was found to have reused disposable equipment intended for one-time use, leading to the transmission of HIV through contaminated blood during the procedures.
Vampire facials, also known as platelet-rich plasma microneedling facials, are popular treatments used to rejuvenate the skin. However, the FDA has not approved the use of platelet-rich plasma injections for cosmetic purposes, citing potential risks such as the transmission of bloodborne diseases like HIV.
The former owner of VIP Spa pleaded guilty to practicing medicine without a license and performing illegal procedures. The spa was shut down in fall 2018 due to code violations discovered during inspections. Nearly 200 former clients of the spa were tested for HIV, with no additional infections found.
Health officials are urging individuals to have medical procedures done in licensed medical settings to avoid such risks. While the overall risks associated with beauty treatments are low when performed safely, incidents like this highlight the importance of regulation and oversight in the industry.
Free HIV testing is still available for those who visited VIP Spa. For more information, follow reporter Alexa St. John on X, formerly known as Twitter, @alexa_stjohn, or contact her at [email protected]. Stay informed and stay safe.
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