Three women have been diagnosed with HIV after undergoing “vampire facials” at an unlicensed medical spa in New Mexico, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This marks the first documented cases of HIV transmission through cosmetic services involving needles.
The investigation was initiated following the diagnosis of a woman in her 40s who had received the procedure at the spa. It was discovered that the spa had been allegedly reusing disposable equipment intended for single use from 2018 to 2023, as reported by the CDC.
While the risk of transmitting HIV through contaminated blood via unsterile injections is widely recognized, this incident represents the first documented cases involving cosmetic services.
HIV, once diagnosed, can cause damage to the immune system’s cells, affecting the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases. Although there is no cure, effective drug treatments are available.
A “vampire facial,” also known as platelet-rich plasma microneedling, entails using the client’s own blood, separating its components, and injecting plasma into the face with tiny needles to rejuvenate the skin.
Following the investigation, the New Mexico spa was shuttered in 2018, and its owner faced legal action for practicing medicine without a license.
The CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality report emphasizes the importance of customers inquiring about infection control practices when considering cosmetic procedures involving needles.