Vampire Facials Turn to Tragedy: Three Women Diagnosed with HIV After Unlicensed New Mexico Spa Reuses Needles during Cosmetic Procedures

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, three women have been diagnosed with HIV after undergoing “vampire facial” procedures at an unlicensed medical spa. This is the first known instance of people contracting HIV through a cosmetic procedure involving needles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted an investigation from 2018 to 2023 and discovered that the clinic in question had reused disposable equipment meant for single use.

The report highlights the risks associated with using needles during cosmetic procedures such as Botox injections, fillers, and “vampire facials”. These procedures often involve injecting substances into the skin to improve its appearance. However, if not properly sanitized or used correctly, these substances can carry infectious agents that could potentially harm patients.

In 2018, the New Mexico Department of Health launched an investigation into the spa after a woman in her 40s tested positive for HIV without any known risk factors. She reported exposure to needles during a procedure at the clinic that spring. The spa closed in the fall of 2018 and its owner was prosecuted for practicing medicine without a license.

The CDC report emphasizes the importance of enforcing infection control practices at businesses offering cosmetic procedures with needles. It also highlights the need for improved record-keeping as poor documentation can slow down investigations like this one down significantly. Businesses providing these services should maintain better records to facilitate contact with clients if necessary in the future.

Overall, this incident serves as a reminder of how important it is to ensure that medical professionals are properly trained and equipped when performing any type of medical procedure involving needles or other invasive techniques.