If you visit a beauty stylist regularly, you may have seen them injecting hyaluronic acid into a woman's cheeks to restore volume, elasticity and firmness to the skin, or injecting dermal fillers to create the perfect plump lips. This is a common sight in many medical spas and salons that offer cosmetic procedures, but you should be careful as these treatments can also lead to chronic infections.
Earlier this year, three women reportedly contracted HIV after undergoing a “vampire facial,” also known as a PRP (platelet-rich plasma) facial, at an unlicensed medical spa in New Mexico, USA. According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these cases highlight a new way the infection can spread: HIV transmission through contaminated cosmetic injections. Of course, they also reveal hidden dangers for unlicensed and ill-equipped practitioners. For those unfamiliar, PRP therapy involves injecting the patient's own plasma, rich in growth factors, into the skin, face, or scalp. This activates the clotting mechanism, which in turn activates platelets to release growth factors. The treatment, popularized in 2013 by reality TV celebrity Kim Kardashian, has potential side effects and risk factors, including slow healing and discomfort, cross-infection, and, very rarely, severe reactions such as anaphylactic shock.
While cosmetic treatments have become increasingly popular, it's important to be aware of new risks associated with these procedures, such as skin infections. Although infections can occur due to a variety of other factors, practicing safe and healthy practices can greatly reduce the chances of these issues occurring during cosmetic procedures.
First things first
Being aware of and paying attention to common risk factors when undergoing cosmetic surgery is the first step to staying safe. Experts feel that a comprehensive analysis and cross-check of the procedure site and cosmetic surgery should be done to avoid accidents. You should be careful of the medical equipment such as needles handled by staff, as well as the accessories and creams used during the procedure.
You should also be aware of common complications like infection at the Botox site, laser burns, and failed Botox injections. In the long term, this can lead to drooping eyebrows and eyelids, lethargy, and viral infections.
“Infections have become very common nowadays. We come into contact with many things that may be contaminated unknowingly. This happens especially in public places like spas, salons and tattoo parlours. To avoid such infections, it is ideal to follow protocols. Infections can occur from improper hygiene, contaminated tools and unclean water. To avoid infection, make sure the spa follows strict cleanliness protocols (sterilisation of tools, using disposable items where possible, maintaining a clean environment etc.). You should go to a reputed spa with qualified practitioners,” says Dr Monica Bhambru, head of aesthetics and dermatology at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram. Infections usually occur from sharing tools, improper sterilisation or unhygienic conditions. Dr Bhambru advises to go to salons that prioritise cleanliness, with staff trained in proper hygiene procedures. “You should ask for clean tools and equipment for each client. Check if the salon has posted a hygiene inspection certificate. Avoid sharing personal items like razors and towels. If you notice any hygiene deficiencies, report it immediately or look for other services,” she adds.
Similarly, tattoo infections can result from contaminated needles, unsanitary conditions, and improper aftercare. Choose a reputable tattoo artist who works in a clean, licensed studio. Make sure the tattoo parlor uses disposable, sterile needles and equipment, and be sure to closely follow any aftercare instructions, such as keeping your tattoo clean and moisturized. “Watch out for signs of infection like excessive redness, swelling, or discharge, and seek medical attention immediately if you see any. Minimize your risk by researching the studio's reputation and hygiene practices in advance. If you notice that hygiene practices aren't being properly followed, report it immediately or consider getting services elsewhere,” says VanBrugh.
Dr Raina Nahar, senior consultant, dermatology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, suggests that when choosing a tattoo parlour, make sure the reviews are positive and that they have a good reputation for cleanliness and safety, and that the tattoo artist is properly licensed and adheres to health and safety standards. “Ensure that tools, equipment and work surfaces are sterilised or disinfected between clients. Practitioners should use sterile, disposable needles and ink caps for tattooing. Hands should be washed frequently and gloves and other protective gear should be worn during the procedure,” adds Dr Nahar.
For a safer experience
According to industry veteran Dr. Blossom Kochhar, founder of Blossom Kochhar Aroma Magic, don't just get a treatment because someone recommends it. “Understand the procedure, the ingredients used in the treatment, and the equipment and tools used to deliver the treatment. When getting a new facial treatment, do a small patch test. Be honest with your therapist and let them know what you are comfortable with and what you are not. Don't get multiple chemical treatments done on your hair at the same time, as this can be severely damaging to your hair,” adds Dr. Kochhar.
For a safer experience, check the business license and health inspection report of the spa or salon where you plan to have your treatment, suggests Dr Ipshita Johri, a Noida- and Gurugram-based dermatology and aesthetic consultant and laser specialist, and founder of Skinfinity Derma, a skin, hair and laser clinic. “Avoid treatment if you have any cuts, abrasions, wounds or infected areas,” she adds.
You should always be on the lookout for symptoms like redness, swelling, pain, pus and fever, while treatment may include topical or oral antibiotics depending on the type and severity of the infection. “Keep the area clean and dry and follow any aftercare instructions given to you by your healthcare provider. Do not touch or scratch the area and avoid sunlight for 48 hours. Also, avoid swimming and refrain from applying makeup and lotions unless instructed by a healthcare professional. Keep a record of the procedure including date, location and doctor in case it is required for follow-up or legal reasons,” adds Dr Nahar, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital.
What you need to ensure
Ask questions about the treatments being performed at the spa Check with the practice's owner or manager and their qualifications Be careful with procedures that may cut the skin Always sterilize or disinfect scissors, clippers, and razors between clients Practitioners should wash their hands and wear gloves as needed, especially for treatments that come into contact with the skin Check your skin type, as using products on sensitive skin can increase the risk of infection or rash Look for signs of good hygiene, such as a clean work area and practitioners using new, sanitized tools for each client Monitor your skin and nails, and report any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or inflammation, to the salon and a medical professional
— Dr Raina Nahar, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai.
