Two people who received so-called vampire facials at a beauty spa in the United States have been diagnosed with HIV.
The controversial procedure, said to be a favourite among celebrities including Kim Kardashian and Ferne McCann typically involves re-injecting the patient’s own blood from their body into their face.
The blood is spun in a centrifuge to extract platelet-rich plasma and tiny needles are used to pierce holes in the skin, supposedly to aid the re-absorption process.
It is said to have a plumping effect and helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
But the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has issued a warning as it investigates two cases of HIV infection linked to clients who used the VIP Spa in Albuquerque last year. Both were found to have contracted the same strain of the virus.
It released a statement urging other clients of the now closed down spa to come forward for free and confidential HIV and hepatitis testing.
Kathy Kunkel, NMDOH Cabinet Secretary said: “While over 100 VIP Spa clients have already been tested, NMDOH is reaching out to ensure that testing and counselling services are available for individuals who received injection-related services at the VIP Spa.
“Testing is important for everyone as there are effective treatments for HIV and many hepatitis infections.”
The spa was closed in September last year after an inspection by NMDOH found issues with how needles were handled and disposed of at the facility that “could potentially spread blood-borne infections, such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C to clients.”