Vampire Facial Before and After: Real Results from Real People

Skincare and aesthetic treatments, few procedures have generated as much intrigue—and controversy as the vampire facial. Also known as a PRP facial (Platelet-Rich Plasma facial), this treatment combines the science of regenerative medicine with the goal of youthful, glowing skin. 

It gained mainstream attention after celebrities like Kim Kardashian posted their post-treatment photos, faces blood-speckled and raw, which sparked both fascination and fear.

But beyond the dramatic imagery and trending hashtags, what does a vampire facial do? And what kind of results can you expect?

Let’s take a closer look at the real before and after experiences of real people, and uncover the truth behind the facade.

What Is a Vampire Facial?

A vampire facial is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses your blood to stimulate collagen production and rejuvenate the skin. Here’s how it works:

Blood is drawn from your arm.

The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the plasma rich in platelets from red and white blood cells.

The concentrated Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is applied or injected into the face using microneedling or direct injections.

Microneedling creates micro-injuries in the skin, allowing the PRP to penetrate deeper. The growth factors in PRP boost cell turnover, collagen production, and skin healing, resulting in smoother, brighter, and firmer skin over time.

Who Gets Vampire Facials—and Why?

People seek vampire facials for a variety of skin concerns, including:

·       Fine lines and wrinkles

·       Acne scars

·       Uneven skin tone or texture

·       Enlarged pores

·       Dull or aging skin

·       Sun damage

It appeals to those who want natural rejuvenation using their body’s healing mechanisms—no fillers, toxins, or synthetic substances.

Before the Procedure: What to Expect

Consultation

Your skincare provider will evaluate your skin type, discuss your concerns, and ensure you’re a good candidate (people with blood disorders or certain medical conditions may not qualify).

Preparation

Avoid alcohol, smoking, and blood thinners for 24–48 hours before treatment.

Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face.

A topical numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort during microneedling.

The Procedure: What It Feels Like

Most people describe the sensation as mild discomfort, similar to a rough facial scrub or tiny pinpricks. The numbing cream usually makes the process very tolerable.

The session typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes, including preparation, blood draw, and microneedling with PRP application.

Immediately After: The “Bloody Face”

After the treatment, expect your face to appear red and slightly swollen, with tiny pinprick marks or blood spots. This post-treatment appearance is temporary and often referred to as the “raw” or “bloody” phase.

Real Patient Reaction:

“I looked like I had a bad sunburn for a day or two. But by day three, my skin was glowing.”
— Jessica, 34, Los Angeles

The Recovery Timeline

Day 1–2:

Skin is red and slightly swollen

May feel tight, warm, or sensitive (like a sunburn)

Day 3–4:

Redness fades

Skin may begin to flake or peel slightly as it heals

Day 5–7:

Visible improvement in tone and texture

Glow becomes noticeable

Week 2–4:

Collagen production increases

Skin appears firmer, smoother, and more radiant

Before and After: Real Results from Real People

Case 1: Ashley, 29 — Acne Scarring

Before: Ashley struggled with mild acne scars and a dull skin tone.
After 1 Treatment: “My skin tone evened out, and the texture was way smoother. The scars on my cheeks were less visible after about two weeks. I looked like I’d been on a long vacation.”

Case 2: Mark, 43 — Early Aging Signs

Before: Mark had fine lines, sagging around the mouth, and a tired appearance.
After 2 Treatments: “I didn’t expect huge results, but after the second session, my skin felt tighter, and friends told me I looked refreshed—even though I didn’t tell anyone I had anything done.”

Case 3: Lila, 38 — Sun Damage and Texture

Before: Lila had years of sun damage, uneven texture, and enlarged pores.
After 1 Treatment: “My pores looked smaller, and my skin tone was noticeably better. It wasn’t overnight magic, but after a week, my skin was the best it had been in years.”

How Many Sessions Do You Need?

Most providers recommend a series of 2–3 treatments, spaced about 4–6 weeks apart, for optimal results. However, some people see noticeable improvement after just one session.

Maintenance treatments every 6–12 months can help sustain results over time.

Side Effects and Risks

Vampire facials are generally safe when performed by licensed professionals using sterile equipment. However, potential side effects include:

·       Redness and swelling (common and temporary)

·       Mild bruising or peeling

·       Infection (rare)

Hyperpigmentation (especially in darker skin tones, if not performed properly)

Tip: Always go to a board-certified dermatologist or experienced medical aesthetician. Never receive PRP treatments in unregulated or non-medical environments.

Is It Worth It?

If you're looking for natural, noticeable skin improvement with minimal downtime and no synthetic fillers or chemicals, the facial can be an excellent choice.

Pros:

·       Uses your body’s natural growth factors

·       Minimal downtime (usually under a week)

·       Boosts collagen and cell turnover

·       Suitable for most skin types

·       Improves multiple skin concerns at once

Cons:

Can be costly ($500–$1,500 per session)

May require multiple sessions

Some people may not tolerate microneedling well

Final Thoughts

The vampire facial is more than just a trending cosmetic treatment—it’s a scientifically backed skin rejuvenation therapy that delivers real results for real people. While the post-treatment “bloody” look might seem intimidating, the recovery is relatively quick, and the glow that follows is often worth it.

From reduced scarring to smoother texture and firmer skin, PRP facials offer a holistic approach to facial rejuvenation. Just remember, results vary, and working with a qualified provider is key to a successful outcome.