By: Yasmine Lame
Kim Kardashian started the micro needling craze after she publicly promoted receiving the “vampire facial” in 2013. It wasn’t until Kim got this treatment that micro needling sparked public interest. Micro needling works by puncturing the skin using short needles. This tricks the skin into thinking that it’s damaged, initiating collagen production. Since Kim’s seal of approval, numerous celebrities and influencers have posted photographs of their skin after receiving the vampire facial. Its sounds very interesting but what exactly is this facial you ask? I have broken down the processes below.
First, your skin will be cleaned and prepped for the topical numbing cream the doctor will place on your face. While the numbing cream sets in, your blood will be drawn and then put through a centrifuge to extract the Platelet-rich plasma, also known as, PRP. Once the PRP is separated, the doctor will begin micro needling. As this is taking place, the platelet gel will be applied to your skin. This enables the PRP to go into the superficial punctures created by the micro needle. Some bleeding might occur but it’s just a result of the small needles coming in contact with the skin. Fortunately, the pain should be minimal thanks to the numbing cream.
While there are numerous benefits, some of the ones I have found most encouraging are micro needling: increases collagen production, reduces pore size, improves acne scars, wrinkles and sun spots, it’s a natural healing process, and there is little recovery time.
It is suggested this facial should be done every 4-6 months for optimal results. In between sessions, suitable candidates should also try derma planning. Clients may be red afterwards, but by the next day your skin will look significantly brighter and healthier.