New Mexico Medical Spa Linked to HIV Cases from “Vampire Facial” Procedures
In a shocking report released last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that three women were diagnosed with HIV after undergoing “vampire facial” procedures at an unlicensed medical spa in New Mexico. This marks the first documented cases of individuals contracting the virus through cosmetic services involving needles.
The investigation, which spanned from 2018 to 2023, focused on the VIP Spa in Albuquerque. Federal health officials discovered that the facility had been reusing disposable equipment meant for single use, leading to the transmission of HIV to clients through contaminated blood. The CDC report highlights the importance of proper infection control and maintaining client records in spa facilities that offer cosmetic injection services to prevent the transmission of bloodborne pathogens like HIV.
But what exactly is a vampire facial? Also known as platelet-rich plasma microneedling facials, these cosmetic procedures are designed to rejuvenate the skin, reducing acne scars and wrinkles, and giving a more youthful appearance. During the procedure, a client’s blood is drawn, and the plasma, which is rich in platelets and cells, is separated and injected back into the client’s face using either single-use disposable or multiuse sterile needles.
Vampire facials have gained popularity in recent years, partly due to the endorsement by celebrities like Kim Kardashian. The American Academy of Dermatology has stated that despite the known risk of HIV transmission through unsterile injections, vampire facials are generally considered safe.
The link between the HIV cases and the spa was established when the New Mexico Department of Health was notified in the summer of 2018 about a woman who had no known HIV risk factors but was diagnosed with the infection after receiving vampire facial services at the spa. Further investigation revealed similar HIV strains among three women, all of whom were former clients of the spa. The evidence strongly suggested that contamination from the spa’s services led to these three patients testing positive for HIV.
Furthermore, another woman who received services at the spa and her male sexual partner, who did not visit the spa, were also found to have a close HIV strain. However, it is believed that their HIV diagnoses were likely attributed to exposures before receiving the cosmetic injection services. Health officials discovered various violations at the spa, including equipment containing blood on a kitchen counter, unlabeled tubes of blood and injectables stored alongside food, and improperly disposed unwrapped syringes. Surprisingly, a crucial sterilization equipment, an autoclave, was not found at the spa.
Following the investigation, the New Mexico Attorney General’s office took legal action against the former owner of VIP Spa, Maria de Lourdes Ramos de Ruiz. She pleaded guilty to five felony counts of practicing medicine without a license, which included performing unlicensed vampire facials. Prosecutors stated that code violations were found during inspections conducted by state health and regulation and licensing departments, leading to the spa’s closure in the fall of 2018. Ramos de Ruiz received a 7 1/2-year sentence with four years suspended on supervised probation, 3 1/2 years in prison, and parole.
The implications of these cases are concerning, shedding light on the potential risks associated with cosmetic services that involve injections. It serves as a crucial reminder that proper infection control is vital in any establishment offering such procedures. The incident raises questions about the need for stricter regulations and monitoring in the cosmetic industry to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers.
Looking ahead, it is likely that there will be increased scrutiny and oversight of medical spas and cosmetic practices by health authorities. The New Mexico case may act as a catalyst for the development of stricter guidelines and regulations surrounding the use of needles and other equipment in cosmetic procedures. This incident could prompt the adoption of standardized infection control practices and mandatory licensing for practitioners, ensuring that proper precautions are taken to prevent the transmission of bloodborne diseases like HIV.
While the vampire facial trend may continue to attract individuals seeking youthful and refreshed skin, it is paramount that both consumers and providers prioritize their safety. Clients should thoroughly research the spas they intend to visit, ensuring that they are licensed, have a history of proper infection control, and prioritize client safety. It is vital to have an open dialogue with the aesthetic practitioner about their procedures, the hygiene protocols in place, and any concerns regarding infection control.
In conclusion, the HIV cases linked to the vampire facial procedures at the unlicensed New Mexico medical spa have highlighted the importance of proper infection control and compliance with regulations in the cosmetic industry. The incident has paved the way for potential future trends, including stricter guidelines and regulations, higher standards of infection control practices, and mandatory licensing for practitioners. As consumers, it is crucial to prioritize our safety by thoroughly researching and selecting reputable spas that prioritize our well-being. By promoting stricter regulations and practices, we can hope for a safer and more secure future in the cosmetic industry.