Would you inject your face with blood?

By Sarah Emily Gilbert 

As its name suggests, the Vampire Facelift involves blood extraction, but don’t worry, it also includes blood infusions. Let us explain.

To perform the procedure, a certified medical professional draws blood from the patient’s arm and places it into a centrifuge to isolate a certain type of blood plasma called Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). These platelets are cells in the blood that contain growth factors that help the body heal injuries. During a Vampire Facelift, numbing cream and a microneedle are used to inject PRP back into the body through the face. The blood plasma kick starts the body’s healing processes, regenerating tissue and promoting collagen growth. The result reduces wrinkles and creates tighter and smoother skin.

For years, PRP therapy has been used as a way to treat wounds or injuries, but in 2013, it became a trend in the world of dermatology when Kim Kardashian underwent the procedure on the hit television show Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Since then, the Vampire Facelift has popped up in doctor’s offices and spas across the country, including Ethos Skin and Laser Center, located in Summit and Englewood, NJ.

In just 30 to 40 minutes, patients leave the luxury medical spa with a brightened and tightened face thanks to the all-natural injections. Unlike other facial filler that contain chemicals, PRP comes from the patient’s own body, leaving no other side effects than some possible redness, bruising, or swelling. Perhaps the best part of the facial is its longevity. The effects of the procedure improve for two to three months and can last for one to two years, making it well worth the $1,000 it costs at Ethos Skin and Laser Center.

If you get squeamish around blood, you might want to stick to more traditional fillers like Botox. But if you want that Kim K glow, head to Ethos at 89 Summit in Summit or 12 N Dean Street in Englewood.