CDC Investigates First Possible Cases of HIV Transmission from Needles Used in Cosmetic Procedures

Three women who were diagnosed with HIV after receiving “vampire facial” procedures at an unlicensed New Mexico medical spa are believed to be the first documented cases of people contracting the virus through a cosmetic procedure using needles, according to federal health officials. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted an investigation into the clinic from 2018 through 2023, revealing that the clinic apparently reused disposable equipment intended for one-time use.

While HIV transmission from contaminated blood through unsterile injection is a known risk, this is the first documentation of probable infections involving cosmetic services. Many popular cosmetic treatments, such as Botox and fillers, are delivered with needles. A “vampire facial” involves using needles to inject plasma into the face to rejuvenate the skin, while tattoos also require needles.

The New Mexico Department of Health began investigating the spa in the summer of 2018 after a woman in her 40s tested positive for HIV despite having no known risk factors. The woman reported exposure to needles through a procedure at the clinic that spring. The spa was subsequently closed in fall 2018, and its owner was prosecuted for practicing medicine without a license.

The CDC report stressed the importance of requiring infection control practices at businesses offering cosmetic procedures involving needles. It also highlighted the need for keeping better records in case clients need to be contacted later. The investigation was hindered by poor record keeping at the spa, further underscoring the importance of proper record-keeping practices at such establishments.