Spa Scare: HIV and Other Transmissible infections
A spa in New Mexico is currently experiencing a health scare as a result of a popular skin care treatment procedure.
The New Mexico Health Department released a statement that a client of the VIP Spa in Albuquerque may have developed an infection as a result of a spa procedure. The health department is encouraging any recent visitors to get tested for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
VIP Spa was forced to close its establishment indefinitely after the inspection on September 7, 2018.
One of the spa procedures in question is The Vampire Facial, also known as a PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Facial. The Vampire Facial has been especially famous with celebrities. The procedure is said to aid in skin rejuvenation benefits that lead to a youthful appearance.
Update
As of May 2019, two positive HIV test have been recorded in connection to this incident at VIP Spa in Albuquerque, NM. We are keeping all former client’s in our prayers as they deal with this devastating news.
So, what is this bloody treatment?
The vampire facial begins with a physician or medical assistant drawing blood via IV. The vials of blood are then placed in a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins at a very high speed for a set interval of time. This spinning process separates the blood into layers of plasma and blood cells.
Plasma is ‘liquid gold’. It is rich in human growth factors and supports cell renewal and rejuvenation.
Once the platelet rich plasma is extracted, the patient undergoes either microneedling or microdermabrasion. Microneedling is the preferred method as it creates micro channels in the skin.
After the microneedling or microdermabrasion procedure, the liquid gold is applied to the skin.
Always Use Your Better Judgement
This investigation is a wake up call to everyone. Those receiving cosmetic services and those rendering the service.
Any time there is a potential exposure to bodily fluids (blood, pus, etc.), diligent precautions must be adhered to. Please make sure your spa and/or medical spa are operating legally. Medical spas must have a licensed medical doctor in its staff.
Here are a few positive things to look out for:
a clean, working environment
use of sanitizers; hand sanitizers are especially important
properly protected equipment
If you see ANY of these, RUUUUUN!:
improper disposal of needles, implements, etc.
a dirty working environment
blood or bodily fluid remnants
exposed soiled linens
performance of services without gloves and proper personal protective equipment