The Globally Popular ‘Vampire Facial’: How Effective Is It for Removing Blemishes, Scars, and Wrinkles?

 The Globally Popular ‘Vampire Facial’: How Effective Is It for Removing Blemishes, Scars, and Wrinkles?

Generally, sessions can be performed at intervals of one month to six weeks. Multiple sessions may be required to address scars, fine lines, or to improve skin texture.

The Globally Popular ‘Vampire Facial’: How Effective Is It for Removing Blemishes, Scars, and Wrinkles?

Microneedling is a treatment that uses tiny needles to create microscopic wounds in the skin, stimulating collagen production to improve skin texture and reduce certain types of blemishes.

According to Dr. Prajwal Pudasaini, microneedling is often combined with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) to treat acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines, and certain types of wrinkles.

On social media, one frequently encounters images of faces being pricked by tiny needles, followed by a appearance that looks red—resembling blood. While some refer to this as a ‘Vampire Facial,’ others recognize it as a microneedling treatment.

Its popularity is growing due to claims that it can improve skin blemishes, acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin texture. But does it actually work as claimed—and as it appears on social media?

Here are edited excerpts from a conversation with dermatologist Dr. Prajwal Pudasaini regarding these topics:

What exactly is microneedling? Microneedling is a treatment procedure that addresses skin issues by using tiny needles to create microscopic wounds—or "micro-injuries"—on the skin.

Typically, needles ranging from approximately 0.5 to 3 millimeters in length are used. The human body possesses a natural healing process for wounds, and this very process is harnessed for skin treatment. When these micro-injuries occur, the body begins to produce proteins, such as collagen, as part of the healing response. This helps improve skin texture and reduces certain types of scars and blemishes.

While microneedling and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) are distinct procedures, why are they often combined in treatments today?

PRP refers to plasma enriched with platelets and growth factors. It is prepared by drawing the patient's own blood and using a centrifuge to isolate the necessary plasma. The platelets and growth factors contained within this plasma are then utilized for the treatment.

In this combination, microneedling initiates the healing process by creating micro-injuries, while PRP provides additional support to this process. Because growth factors facilitate wound healing and collagen production, PRP is used in conjunction with microneedling.

The primary objective of combining these two methods is to rejuvenate the skin and improve its texture. This approach is used for certain types of acne scars—specifically "boxcar" scars—as well as for old surgical or injury scars, stretch marks, fine lines, and general skin texture improvement. Since it promotes collagen production in the skin, it can improve skin firmness and overall texture. Fine lines may also appear less noticeable. However, it should not be viewed as a "cure-all" treatment that resolves every issue at once.

Microneedling is also known as a "vampire facial." Why is it called a "vampire" treatment—a name that sounds rather intimidating?

There are two reasons for this popular name. First, the microneedling process can cause minor bleeding from the skin. Second, the patient's own blood is drawn for the PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) component of the procedure. Consequently, it has come to be marketed on social media as a "vampire facial."

Medically speaking, however, the procedure involves microneedling and PRP; the term "vampire facial" is primarily a marketing label.

How does it help in treating acne scars?

It is frequently used for acne scarring. It can be particularly effective for "boxcar" scars—a type of scarring where the skin appears somewhat indented or depressed. The specific treatment approach and the depth to which the needles penetrate must be determined based on the depth of the scars.

For superficial scars, the needles can be set to a relatively shallow depth, whereas deeper scars may require greater penetration. Therefore, it is not appropriate to use the same needle depth for everyone. Furthermore, it takes time for the scarring to show improvement. Although some changes may be visible immediately after the procedure, it takes time for collagen to form; therefore, it may take several months to see results regarding scars. Often, multiple sessions are required. Furthermore, special care must be taken when performing this treatment on the skin of Nepali individuals.

Can anyone undergo microneedling, or are there specific limitations?

Microneedling should not be performed if there is an active skin infection. It is not suitable for individuals with active acne, bacterial or viral infections, herpes, active eczema, or skin that is extremely sensitive or inflamed. Additionally, caution is required for individuals prone to developing abnormal scarring.

Those taking blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) should also not undergo this treatment without first consulting a doctor. Moreover, extra caution is necessary when treating the skin of Nepali individuals.

What is unique about the skin of Nepali individuals that necessitates such extra caution during this treatment?

Special care is required because the skin of Nepali individuals has a relatively higher susceptibility to pigmentation issues. Since microneedling creates tiny wounds or injuries on the skin, it can trigger an increase in melanin production. This carries the risk of developing dark spots or pigmentation in the treated area. This risk is particularly high for skin that already exhibits melasma or existing pigmentation.

Therefore, when performing microneedling on skin affected by melasma or pigmentation, a doctor must assess the condition of the skin to determine the appropriate depth and method for the treatment. Using needles at an excessive depth can cause significant trauma to the skin, which may, in turn, increase pigmentation.

Following the procedure, it is crucial to avoid sun exposure for a few days, use the sunscreen recommended by your doctor, and refrain from applying unnecessary cosmetics or active skincare ingredients. Since the skin often becomes red and sensitive after the treatment, prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk of developing dark spots.

Therefore, it is not advisable to replicate treatments seen on social media—performed on non-Nepali skin types—directly onto Nepali skin. The depth and method of the treatment must be determined based on an individual's specific skin type, concerns, and sensitivity.

How should one prepare for the treatment?

Because microneedling involves creating tiny punctures in the skin, it may cause some pain or discomfort. To address this, a topical anesthetic (numbing) cream can be applied about half an hour before the procedure.

Before the treatment, the skin must be thoroughly cleansed, ensuring that all makeup and other products are removed. The depth at which the needles are applied should be determined by the doctor, based on the condition of the skin and the specific issues being addressed.

What precautions should be taken after the treatment?

Following the procedure, the skin may appear red, swollen, or feel like it is burning. Typically, these effects can persist for anywhere from one to several days. It is especially important to protect the skin from the sun after the treatment; because the treated skin is highly sensitive, exposure to sunlight may increase the likelihood of developing dark spots. If you must go outside, ensure you use sunscreen as advised by your doctor. Similarly, it is advised to avoid using makeup, face wash, various serums, or other cosmetic products for a few days following the treatment. It is also best to refrain from strenuous exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating for at least one to two days, as sweat can further irritate sensitive skin.

If necessary, the doctor may prescribe medication or ointments for a few days. Applying a cold compress can provide relief if you experience redness or discomfort.

Since this treatment involves injections and the use of blood, are there potential side effects?

Typically, you may experience mild redness, swelling, a burning sensation, or skin sensitivity after the procedure. These effects usually subside over time. However, if the procedure is performed under improper conditions or incorrectly, there is a risk of infection, prolonged redness, or scarring. Extra caution is required, especially for individuals who have a history of abnormal scarring.

At what age can one undergo microneedling?

Generally, it can be performed from the age of 18. However, if it is medically necessary at a younger age, it may be done with the consent of a doctor and in the presence of a parent or guardian. For purely aesthetic purposes, it is generally recommended for those aged 18 and older.

How many sessions are required?

The number of sessions varies depending on the specific skin concerns and the goals of the treatment. Sessions are typically spaced one month to six weeks apart. Addressing issues like scars, fine lines, or skin texture may require multiple sessions; significant improvement is often observed after about four sessions. Afterward, depending on individual needs and goals, maintenance sessions can be performed once or twice a year. Can other treatments, such as PRP, be combined with microneedling?

Depending on the requirements, microneedling can be combined with PRP, radiofrequency, subcision, or, in certain cases, other treatments. Subcision can be useful for deep acne scars. In some instances, it may also be combined with TCA CROSS or chemical peels. However, this does not mean that everyone requires all these treatments simultaneously. The choice of treatment should be based on the specific issue, the depth of the scars, and the condition of the skin.

How effective is this treatment for fine lines and wrinkles?

As we age, the levels of collagen and elastin—which keep the skin firm and balanced—begin to decline. This causes the skin to lose some of its firmness and leads to the appearance of fine lines. Since microneedling stimulates collagen production, it can help improve fine lines and overall skin texture. However, it should not be considered the most effective treatment for deep wrinkles. Depending on the specific concerns and desired outcomes, other treatments might also be necessary.