Investigation Reveals HIV Transmission Linked to 'Vampire Facial' Spa in Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque, New Mexico, known as the backdrop for the TV show 'Breaking Bad' and Walter White's infamous 'Meth Lab', was also home to a day spa that offered 'Vampire Facials'. The spa was shut down six years ago after the New Mexico health department began investigating their unsanitary procedures. A recent report by the US Centers for Disease Control revealed that the day spa was responsible for transmitting HIV to five individuals due to their unsafe practices.

So, what exactly is a 'Vampire Facial'? This procedure involves extracting platelets from blood, then injecting them back into the skin using microneedling techniques on the face, scalp, cheeks, and brow. Although there is limited scientific evidence supporting its benefits, it is believed to accelerate healing and improve skin quality. The US CDC investigation uncovered a case in 2018 where a woman tested positive for HIV after receiving a facial procedure at the Albuquerque spa.

The lack of complete client records made it challenging to track potential cases, highlighting the need for regulated businesses to maintain thorough records for traceability. The spa owner, Maria de Lourdes Ramos De Ruiz, admitted to practicing medicine without a license in 2022. This case serves as a cautionary tale for the importance of maintaining safety and hygiene standards in all beauty and wellness facilities.