All posts by : parimakeover

After months of seclusion with only the blue light from our computer screens filling the room, most of us are probably feeling a little ‘vampy’ right now.

Start with a pale face, sunken eyes, and a cozy blanket turned cape, and you have a starter kit for a vampire costume!

All joking aside, as we prepare to return to post-pandemic “normal” and the sun is hanging around for longer, we could use a little skin prep and maybe even a procedure to restore our skin’s natural healthy glow.

A vampire facial might just do the trick!

What Is A Vampire Facial?

The vampire facial, also known as the vampire facelift or dracula facial, actually has the opposite effect that you might associate with a blood sucking vampire; It doesn’t leave your skin shriveled or dull, rather, it plumps, hydrates, and nourishes our skin using your own blood.

Technically it is a bloody procedure, but it’s not as invasive as it sounds.

Vampire facials get their name because of their unusual and somewhat gory methods.

During a vampire facial, a sample of your own blood is drawn from your arm.

Then, the vial is placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from the red blood cells.

Once the blood is separated, the doctor performs a procedure similar to microdermabrasion in which tiny needles penetrate the skin.

Finally, the platelet-rich plasma (and a hyaluronic acid filler if you are going for a face lift) is applied and absorbed back into your face.

The suggested benefits of a vampire facial are:

• Reduced wrinkles
• Plump skin
• Faded or diminished acne scars
• Brightened skin

If this sounds a little macabre or fringe to you, you might be surprised to learn that even the biggest celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Bar Refaeli and British actor Rupert Everett have all undergone the “dracula treatment”.

Platelet-rich plasma has been used for over 50 years!

It started as a method to help patients recover from open-heart surgery, but soon became a popular restorative procedure in sports medicine and now, as an anti-aging method.

After a year of DIY facials and masks, experts say that the vampire facial will be among the top in-office procedures done in 2021.

So Does It Work?

The efficacy of vampire facials comes down to plasma.

Plasma is rich in protein and helps to carry nutrients, protein, and hormones to the rest of the body.

This is thought to help stimulate collagen production and elastin in the skin, resulting in firm, youthful skin.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is also a natural way to stimulate healing in the body.

It can also be applied at the hairline to also help improve hair growth.

Aside from encouraging youthful glowing skin and thick glossy hair, it can also be used to help heal sports injuries, damaged muscles, arthritis, and more.

Though there is limited research specifically on vampire facials, research suggests PRP may help stimulate hair growth, reduce pain from osteoarthritis, and treat acute sports injuries.

One study found that “both fine and coarse texture improved significantly more with a single treatment of PRP than with normal saline.”

Is it Safe?

Vampire facials are generally thought to be safe if done with sterilized equipment in a clean environment.

Anyone with premature wrinkles or hyperpigmentation who wants to even their skin tone is an ideal candidate for the procedure.

However, as with most cosmetic procedures, unsterilized equipment increases the risk of infection and disease so make sure to do thorough research before choosing your provider.

With that said, vampire facials are a noninvasive procedure that can safely be done by a doctor or dermatologist with the correct equipment and certifications.

What to Expect

Here’s what you can expect pre, mid, and post-procedure.

Your body replenishes its plasma roughly every three days, so you should try to eat a healthy diet at least for the 3 days leading up to your appointment.

Before your procedure, the doctor will cleanse your skin and apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area.

While your face numbs, a sample of blood will be taken from your arm and put in the centrifuge to separate the platelets.

Once you are nice and numb, the doctor will use a small needling device to permeate the skin.

Finally, the PRP will be applied and worked into the skin.

To top it all off, your doctor might apply a cream that will help speed up the healing process and protect your skin from infection.

All in all, it takes anywhere from 30-45 minutes.

Typically, vampire facials have little to no downtime and you can even drive yourself home from the appointment!

Since you are using your body’s own blood components, there is no risk of rejection.

Possible side effects following the procedure may include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Itching
• Dry skin
• Bruising
• Tingling

The Road to Recovery and Results

You might experience some redness or bruising in the days following your procedure.

Oftentimes, your doctor will give you specific aftercare instructions but as a general rule, use a gentle cleanser and avoid alcohol-based products, artificial fragrances, and exfoliants for at least 72 hours post-procedure.

Make sure to apply SPF daily and avoid the sun whenever possible to avoid sun damage to your freshly facialed skin!

Though the side effects and irritation will likely fade within the first couple of days, results likely won’t be evident from a single session alone.

Depending on your skin’s condition (wrinkles, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, etc.) it could take multiple sessions to see your desired results.

Regardless of whether you want a follow-up appointment or not, your doctor will likely recommend that you come back to the office after your skin has had time to recover to see its impacts and discuss whether further treatment is needed.

After your 72 hour marker, you may be able to prolong the effects of your procedure by using a brightening daily cleanser and lightweight moisturizer.

Oral collagen supplements may also help you to build up your body’s natural collagen stores to promote healthier, firmer skin for the weeks and months to come.

Cost of Vampire Facials

Vampire facials are not covered by insurance.

Though the prices may vary depending on your location and provider, the average vampire facial cost is around $750-$1000 per session.

Given that an individual may have to undergo anywhere from 2-6 procedures to see desired results, this could total anywhere from $1500-$7500 on the low end.

For some, vampire facials can come with a pretty scary price tag.

Luckily there are other more affordable options on the market if you want to dive into the world of cosmetic procedures.

Let’s explore some options to get similar results for a smaller cost!

Cosmetic Procedures with Similar Benefits

If you’re not ready to commit to your own vampy facial but still want some of the results, there are a handful of other cosmetic procedures that might be a better fit for your wallet and skin type.

Chemical peels:

Chemical peel is a broad category of different controlled applications of toxic chemicals and acids to the skin.

Similar to a vampire facial or microneedling, small superficial wounds are used to stimulate skin repair and renewal from the deepest layers of the epidermis.

There are three different types of chemical peels, superficial, medium-depth and deep, and each can be done with various strengths of acids like glycolic, salicylic, and retinoic.

Chemical peels will remove the damaged upper layer of the epidermis to reveal fresh, newer cells beneath.

Depending on the strength of your chemical peel, costs can be as low as $150, or as high as $3,000.

The benefit is that you don’t need immediate follow-up appointments to see results!

After a brief period of redness or tender skin, you should see hydrated, even, fresh skin should be revealed.

Electro-mesotherapy:

Also similar to microdermabrasion and vampire facials, electro-mesotherapy or electroporation helps products to penetrate the skin deeper without the use of needles.

In this, a small device is used to generate an electromagnetic field within which cell membranes reorganize and open ‘channels’ for products to penetrate deep within the skin.

It can be used to remove fat, reduce cellulite, fade wrinkles, firm skin, and lighten hyperpigmentation.

A single session can cost between $250 and $600 and results vary depending on your skin type and desired outcomes.

Laser Treatments:

There are many different types of laser skin treatments including CO2, erbium, pulsed-dye, and fractional lasers.

Each is used to treat common skincare concerns such as uneven skin tone, texture, wrinkles, or dullness.

Many people, especially those with mild skincare concerns, choose laser treatments because they often require fewer sessions to see results.

You can get one-time, yearly, or even monthly procedures depending on the severity of your skin condition and your budget.

Both the individual cost of a treatment and the amount of sessions required will vary, but the average cost is around $1,963 for ablatives and $1,201 for non-ablative procedures.

Products That Make Vampire Facials Bite the Dust

Still not down with the costs? We hear you!

At Skincare by Alana, we believe that quality and clinically proven skincare should be affordable and accessible.

Luckily, there are affordable, powerful, natural products available that can help you achieve your skincare goals.

Whether you’re looking to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, improve your skin texture, or simply restore your natural dewy glow, we’ve got you covered.

If you want to deeply penetrate the skin and promote renewal from the inside out, here are some products you can apply at home!

For Mature Skin

HydroPeptide Peel: Anti-Wrinkle Polish & Plump Peel:

This two step at-home peel allows you to receive all the benefits of microdermabrasion, a facial peel & more for a fraction of the cost! Check out the ingredients list to learn more about their unique blend of AHAs, friendly bacteria, and antioxidants that make this duo a power couple.

Tria Age-Defying Laser:

The Tria Age-Defying Laser is an FDA-cleared fractional laser that treats multiple signs of aging on the entire face. Designed with dermatologists and plastic surgeons, the Age-Defying Laser uses the same technology as professional in-office treatments but makes it easy to do at your leisure from the comfort of your own home.

For Hyperpigmentation

Eminence Organics Bright Skin Licorice Root Exfoliating Peel:

This is a powerful pigment-correcting product that will do wonders for hyperpigmentation! Natural Hydroquinone Complex from African potato and tara tree helps to lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation while licorice root brightens skin’s overall appearance. Regular use can visibly improve the skin’s tone, restoring it to a youthful glow and leaving it soft, smooth and revitalized.

Alana Mitchell Brightening & Exfoliating Pumpkin Anti-Aging Masque:

Reveal your most rejuvenated and youthful skin instantly! One treatment of the 100% natural Brightening & Exfoliating Pumpkin Anti-Aging Masque by Alana Mitchell will remove dead skin cells and debris to reveal a softer, smoother complexion. Near instant results, gentle yet effective ingredients, and a price point that’s under $20 makes this a no-brainer for anyone considering an at-home alternative to the vampire facial.

For Dull Skin

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel:

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel is a professional-grade at-home peel that contains a unique complex of phytoactive AHA extracts, Lactic Acid, and fermented plant enzymes helps reveal new, firmer skin, and removes dulling surface debris without causing dehydration. It gives you ten individually portioned tubes for less than 1/7th of the cost of a vampire facial!

Derma E Overnight Peel:

Slow and steady wins the race right? This easy to apply overnight peel helps your skin tone become more radiant, pigmentation is evened and age spots are visibly diminished. It contains 5% Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) for the safe, effective removal of dead surface skin cells to reveal your inner glow!

For Acne Scars

Derma E Scar Gel:

This powerful scar gel is enriched with Allicin (from onion bulb), Allantoin and Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), to help visibly break down scars and encourage healthy skin. In fact, it’s clinically proven to significantly improve scar texture, color and overall appearance! At only $19.95 a jar, you can’t beat that.

Alana Mitchell Night R1 Retinol Facial Oil:

This gentle yet effective retinol works to repair acne scarring while you sleep! The all-natural formula easily absorbs, leaving you with a moisturized, glowing complexion, and the light citrus scent is the perfect way to end the day. No flaking, redness, or peeling like traditional retinol products, but with all the benefits!

The vampire facial isn’t so scary after all!

When done safely and correctly, it can help you to bid a lackluster complexion and uneven skin tone goodbye with little to no side effects.

Getting the treatment is only half of the battle, however.

Taking care of your skin before and especially after your procedure will make all the difference in how long your effects last and will protect you from damaging your fresh skin.

For more information about building your own perfect skincare regimen, check out the Skincare by Alana blog!

In it, we discuss some of the buzzy and mysterious new products and ingredients on the market from rice water to snail mucin.

We also have tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your at-home skincare routine without breaking the bank or damaging your skin with harmful chemicals.

When it comes to eye makeup, few styles have the staying power of a winged liner. Whether softly smudged or sharply drawn, that flick at the corner can shift an entire face—adding just enough intent to make everything else feel considered. This week, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sonam Kapoor and Tamannaah Bhatia reminded us just how far one clean line can go. Some looks veered romantic, others sculptural, but all carried the same quiet confidence.

Tamannaah Bhatia brought a kind of sacred glamour to the table, wrapped in tradition: a flower-strewn bun, jhumkas, and a red bindi anchoring the look. Her winged liner flicked outward just enough to lift the eye, subtle but intentional. A berry-pink lip, softly edged with brown, added dimension, while the cheeks held the faintest wash of colour. The base stayed light and breathable—letting skin, not structure, take centre stage.

Aditi Rao Hydari took a different route, letting her Raw Mango sari do the heavy lifting. Her makeup leaned minimal and poetic: a barely-there wing, fluttery lashes, and a petal-toned lip. The skin looked like skin—smooth, softly blurred, and quietly luminous. There was no need for strong lines or over-definition here; the overall effect was one of gentle ease, like a deep exhale.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu kept things dialled down too, pairing a Krésha Bajaj with a brown smokey eye that shimmered at the inner corners and framed the eyes just right. Her lipstick sat close to her natural tone—more beige than pink—and the blush was almost imperceptible. The result: a fresh, quietly sculpted look that perfectly complimented her outfit. It was less about making a statement and more about staying in sync with the softness of the silhouette—understated, yes, but all the more striking for it.

Sonam Kapoor, meanwhile, went maximal in the best way. Dressed in a custom Masaba outfit for the House of Masaba’s Mehrauli flagship opening, her look was crisp and deliberate. Hair and makeup by Namrata Soni brought a razor-sharp liner, creamy pink lips, and near-invisible blush into a neat, graphic finish. A bindi sealed the deal; this was contemporary regal done right.

Krithi Shetty glowed from within, with dewy skin, softly lit eyes and a kiss of highlighter that caught the light without competing for it. A warm pink lip pulled the look together, making it feel like golden hour distilled.

Before we dive into Sulfur’s benefits, let’s first take a look at the skin inflammation we are looking to treat. Acne is the result of a combination of factors including dead skin build-up, excess sebum, bacteria, and trapped dirt. The causes of acne vary for blackheads, whiteheads, and closed comedones (the skin-colored, small bumps frequently found on the forehead and chin of those with acne).

Sulfur is primarily recommended for people who have oily skin to help clear their pores as it can cause irritation for those with more sensitive skin types. It is most commonly known as a rather pungent natural mineral, but within the skincare world, it is a very popular ingredient in acne treatments. To best understand how Sulfur treats acne though, you must first understand how breakouts develop on the skin. Pores can become clogged with dirt and grime if the skin is not cleaned on a regular basis. As these substances become trapped under the skin’s surface, inflammation occurs and often results in painful acne [1].

When topically applied, Sulfur removes the top layer of skin by drying it out and allowing it to easily peel off. This helps slough away a layer of dead skin, keeping pores unblocked and allowing fresh new layers of skin to grow in its place. Sulfur also has antibacterial properties, which help to combat the presence of any lingering bacteria on the skin that may cause infections under the skin’s surface. Our team at the Kate Somerville Clinic loves Sulfur because of these properties. Kelly Viavattine, our very own celebrity esthetician, shares that “this is the primary ingredient in our EradiKate® Acne Treatment, which contains the highest level of Sulfur permitted at 10%, and in our EradiKate® Daily Foaming Cleanser, which is loaded with 3% Sulfur. Sulfur is a natural ingredient that fights bacteria and helps reduce acne by shedding excess skin cells. It’s a powerhouse!”

What Else is Sulfur Used For?



Because of its ability to remove dead cells from the skin’s surface while also fighting bacteria within the pores, Sulfur can also be used in products that treat sensitive skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, eczema, and dandruff [2]. As a result, you may frequently see it as a primary ingredient in soaps and shampoos alike.

When used in skincare, you will want to take note of the amount of Sulfur present in products to ensure their safety. This is because using high strength Sulfur products on a daily basis could cause a number of side effects, such as irritation, and possibly make acne worse as opposed to better. Be advised that any product on the market with greater than 10% Sulfur is illegal.

Should I Use Sulfur Treatments?



Despite its power in combating acne, Sulfur is not suitable for all skin types and some may actually find Sulfur to be harmful to their skin instead of helpful. The same elements that make Sulfur an effective acne treatment can also cause skin irritation for some due to its high pH balance. The strength of Sulfur may break down the skin’s natural protective barrier and leave the skin more vulnerable. Plus, without a strong moisture barrier, your skin will dry out and be more susceptible to environmental aggressors.

Because of the way Sulfur works on the skin, it is actually most effective in treating mild acne breakouts that consist of whiteheads and blackheads. Unfortunately, moderate acne, such as papules or pustules, and severe acne, like cysts and nodules, are best treated with stronger ingredients and under the supervision of an esthetician or dermatologist. However, once more severe acne is cleared up, Sulfur could be an excellent ingredient to help maintain clear skin moving forward.

Struggling with acne is a challenge for many of us, but it is important that you remain vigilant in the products you choose to treat your skin with. Many will seek out intense treatments that excessively dry out the skin. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s important you work with a dermatologist or esthetician to determine the right solution for your skin.

Alternative Treatment Options



If for some reason you are unable to use Sulfur-based products, don’t panic! There are alternative spot treatment options, which can also be effective in treating acne at its source. Two of the most commonly used ingredients are Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide. Like Sulfur, Benzoyl Peroxide is a drying agent that helps remove dead and dry skin from the surface and reduces the presence of bacteria. Salicylic Acid, on the other hand, is more gentle. Though it is less intense in its effects, Salicylic Acid is still able to aid in the removal of dead skin and penetrate into pores to clean out the hair follicle and clear any existing breakouts. Our EradiKate® Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment is a good alternative for those who are unable to use Sulfur-based products.

Clearly, Sulfur is an incredible acne fighting ingredient. By removing dead skin cells both in your pores and on the surface of your skin, it can help to eliminate existing acne and prevent new breakouts. With a little patience and dedication to your skincare routine, your acne should begin to clear within a few days to a few weeks. However, while Sulfur treatments are safe, they are not the best option for everyone, so make sure you work with your dermatologist or esthetician to find the best treatments and regimen for your unique skin. At the Kate Somerville Skin Experts Clinic on Melrose Place, we take pride in working with every one of our clients to find the best possible solution for them.

Sources:

1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/107146.php
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17147562