'Vampire Facial' Offered By A Salon Without Medical Qualifications?

A doctor has raised concerns about a hair and beauty salon in Auckland offering "vampire facials" without the necessary medical qualifications, potentially putting customers at risk of serious complications such as stroke, nerve damage, and embolism, The New Zealand Herald reported.

The salon, which has not been named by the Herald, promotes platelet-rich plasma (PRP) facials, also known as "vampire facials," alongside its regular services of haircuts and colors.

Made famous by influencer Kim Kardashian, the facial involves drawing blood from the arm, processing it in a centrifuge machine, and then injecting the resulting plasma into the face or scalp. It is purported to improve texture, fine lines, pore size, and reduce scarring, with some claims suggesting it can reduce hair loss. The veracity of these claims has not been verified by the Herald.

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PRP facials have been associated with the spread of HIV infections in other countries.

A visitor to the salon in South Auckland expressed alarm at seeing the $650 facials advertised and inquired about them. The salon owner reportedly mentioned performing the facials herself and also having another person who had completed an online course in Sri Lanka.

However, a doctor interviewed by the Herald emphasized that PRP facials are low-risk when performed by a qualified professional in a sterile environment with proper equipment. They warned that untrained individuals could inject into a nerve ending or vein, potentially leading to embolism, stroke, or infection.

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In New Zealand, any cosmetic treatment involving needles, including botox, dermal fillers, and PRP, must be carried out by a registered cosmetic nurse or doctor, as per the New Zealand Society of Cosmetic Medicine (NZSCM).

Dr. Sarah Hart from the NZSCM expressed significant concerns about non-medical personnel performing these procedures and stated that the association would be seeking further information on the matter