What is a Vampire (PRP) Facial
Vampire facials have become famous worldwide, due to their effectiveness in treating skin ageing. Unfortunately, due to Australian regulations, we can’t say the name of the type of cells injected, but the treatment consists of isolating a specific part of your own blood after going through a centrifuge process to separate the cells that we want to utilise. The purpose is to then re-injecting these selected cells which will stimulate new cell growth, helping improve the complexion, quality, texture, elasticity and tones of the skin.
How does it work
Blood is the bodies natural way of healing tissue! Where there is no blood, there is no healing, for example in areas of cartilage.
There are specific substances and cells in the blood which are responsible for triggering the natural healing response. This part is rich in growth factor, as well.
The goal of a vampire facial, or PRP facial is for us to specifically isolate this part of the blood and re-inject it back into the skin, simulating an injury that never occurred. This will mean that the body will understand there is a need to produce more blood vessels in the area, increase the thickness of the skin to promote better protection, and stimulate collagen and elastin production. Essentially, this will achieve firmer, brighter and healthier-looking skin.
What is the procedure used for
A vampire facial, or PRP facial can treat a variety of skin concerns. The treatment can:
- Improve fine wrinkles
- Increase skin elasticity
- Improve skin texture and complexion
- Reduce hair loss
- Reduce thinning of the skin
- Heal tissues like tendons/cartilage (tissues that naturally have poor blood supply)
The benefits of a PRP facial
A PRP facial has been associated with several benefits for improving the appearance and health of the skin. The benefits of the treatment are that it:
- Stimulates collagen production: A PRP facial involves injecting a healing part of the patient’s own blood, which stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture and tone.
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: The increased collagen production and improved skin texture and tone can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making the skin look smoother and more youthful.
- Improves skin hydration and elasticity: The growth factors from the injections can also help to improve skin hydration and elasticity, giving the skin a plumper and more radiant appearance.
- Reduces hyperpigmentation and sun damage: A vampire facial can also help to reduce hyperpigmentation and sun damage by stimulating the production of new skin cells.
- Helps with acne scars and other scars: The treatment can also help with acne scars and other scars by promoting new tissue growth and healing.
- Is a natural treatment option: Since a vampire facial uses the patient’s own blood, there is no risk of allergic reaction or rejection.
- Minimal downtime: A PRP facial is a minimally invasive procedure, and patients can typically return to their normal activities immediately after the treatment. There is little to no downtime associated with this treatment.
What does the procedure involve
The vampire facial or PRP facial treatment starts with the practitioner drawing your blood, just like a normal blood test. The tube used to collect the blood is not too different to usual collection tubes. The collected blood is then placed inside a special machine called a centrifuge, and this separates the different blood cells types and by-products. The resulting fluid which is now full of special cells, which stimulate tissue regeneration. This fluid is then drawn into injecting syringes and then injected, or smeared and needled into the skin. At Essence, we customise our treatments to meet each patient’s needs and achieve the best results. Therefore, the amount of injections used and the specific treatment areas can be determined within a personalised treatment plan, prior to the treatment.
Patients can expect mild discomfort when drawing blood (just like with a normal blood test or donation). We place topical anaesthetic agents on the skin in the areas that we are going to inject, so the needle entries should not be very painful, but can also cause some discomfort. The injection of the treated liquid can be the most painful part, depending on how much flexibility and tissue motility exists in the area. On the face, pain is generally minimal and usually well-tolerated. If injected in tendons, it can be more painful, and usually local anaesthetics are applied prior to injection.
The usual recommended treatment regime is an initial three sessions followed by one every six to 12 months. More sessions may be needed, or desired, for optimal results. The amount of sessions you will need and the frequency that you will need them can be outlined in your personalised treatment plan, discussed during your consultation.
Results, downtime and aftercare
Results
This treatment does not give immediate results! Results for this type of treatment are usually seen after around three sessions of treatment, so usually within three months. If you do want more immediate results, there are other alternative treatments that we can offer.
Downtime
The treatment consists of injecting a volume of fluid on the areas treated. As a consequence, swelling can be expected, but this usually only last about 24 to 48 hours. Bruising is common, especially when treating fragile areas, such as around the eyes. Immediately after the treatment, the skin can also appear quite red, but this will likely improve 30 to 60 min after the procedure. You may experience facial heat as well, and a cool compress can be applied, but we do not recommend icing.
Aftercare
We will provide you with some aftercare instructions during your appointment, as they may change slightly depending on the details of your personalised treatment, such as the treatment areas, but they generally involve to:
- Avoid touching or scratching the treated area for at least 24 hours to minimise the risk of infection
- Avoid applying makeup or skincare products to the treated area for at least 12 hours after the treatment
- Avoid sun exposure for at least 24 hours after the treatment. If you must go outside, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and wear a hat or other protective clothing
- Drink plenty of water to help hydrate your skin and support the healing process
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours after the treatment, as these can interfere with the healing process
- Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after the treatment
- Follow any additional aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner, such as using a specific skincare product or scheduling follow-up appointments to check the progress of your results
Suitable candidates
PRP facials can be a good option for many people who are looking to improve the appearance of their skin and address various skin concerns. Here are some factors that can determine whether or not you may be a good candidate for a vampire facial:
- Skin concerns: Vampire facials can be used to address a variety of skin concerns, such as acne scars, fine lines, and sun damage. If you have any of these concerns, you may be a good candidate for this treatment
- Skin type: PRP facials can be beneficial for most skin types, including dry, oily, and combination skin. However, if you have certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, you may not be a good candidate for this treatment
- Age: Vampire facials can be effective for people of all ages, but they may be more beneficial for older individuals who are experiencing signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles
- Overall health: If you have any underlying health conditions, such as a bleeding disorder or autoimmune disease, you may not be a good candidate for a PRP facial
- Medical history: It is important to discuss your medical history with your practitioner before undergoing a vampire facial. This will help to identify any potential risks or complications that may arise during or after the treatment
- Expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations about what a PRP facial can achieve
Before your treatment, you will need to consult with one of our qualified practitioners to determine if a vampire facial is the right treatment for you based on your individual needs and medical history.
Costs of a PRP facial Melbourne
At Essence Cosmetic Medicine, we tailor the details of our treatments to suit the needs of each individual client, so costs will be based on each individuals personalised treatment plan.
You will meet with us before your treatment to discuss your needs and goals, which will help us to develop a treatment plan that is suitable for you and then calculate your costs.
The factors within your treatment plan than can determine your total treatment costs can include:
- The amount of injections you will need: This can depend on the specific treatment area and your desired results
- The complexity of the treatment: For example, if the treatment is customised to target specific skin concerns, such as acne scars or fine lines, it may require more time to perform, which can increase the overall cost
- The number of treatments: The total cost of a vampire facial can be influenced by the number of treatments required to achieve the desired results. Some people may need multiple treatments over several weeks or months
Possible risks and side effects
Vampire facials are usually a very reliable procedure, however, all treatments can be associated with some form of risk. At Essence, we value transparency and will always inform you of the potential side effects that can be associated with the procedure that you are interested in undergoing, and how to minimise the chance of these occurring.
Side effects of a PRP facial can sometimes include:
- Pain and discomfort: The pain can be managed with a numbing cream, but patients may still experience some discomfort during the procedure
- Swelling and bruising: After the PRP facial, patients may experience swelling and bruising around the injection sites. This is a normal response to the injection and should resolve within a few days
- Infection: Any time the skin is punctured, there is a risk of infection. However, the risk of infection with PRP facial is low because the treatment uses the patient’s own blood
- Allergic reaction: It is rare, but some patients may have an allergic reaction to the PRP solution or the needle used for injection. Because we are using your own blood products, allergies are not at all common or expected
- Uneven results: A vampire facial may not produce the same results for every patient. Some patients may see significant improvements in their skin texture and tone, while others may see more subtle but still effective results
Why choose Essence Cosmetic Medicine
For the best PRP facial Melbourne has to offer, you will want to choose a reliable clinic with qualified and experienced practitioners who value openness, patient personalisation and achieving effective results with minimal complications and downtime.
Although a vampire facial may seem rather simple, a qualified practitioner who has undergone the necessary training will have the expertise and experience to perform the PRP facial effectively and while minimising side effects. They will know how to customise the treatment to meet your individual needs, determining the appropriate concentration of the product, the optimal injection technique, and the right number of sessions required for the best results. At Essence, our practitioners will also take the time to educate you about the PRP facial procedure, including its potential benefits and risks, and any post-treatment care instructions.
To receive a personalised treatment with high quality patient care, you will want to choose us!