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What Is a Vampire Facial? | A Doctor Explains the Effects, Cost, Downtime, and How It Differs from Dermapen
"Does the Vampire Facial really work?"
"Does the Vampire Facial hurt? How long is the downtime?"
"How is it different from Dermapen?"
"I want to improve my acne scars and craters."
Do you have concerns or questions like these?
Hello. This is Smart Skin Clinic, an aesthetic dermatology practice.
In this article, we explain the Vampire Facial from a specialist's perspective in clear, easy-to-understand terms—covering how it works, its effects, downtime, the recommended number of sessions, and key points to help you avoid disappointment.
*If you already know what you are looking for, you can jump to the relevant section from the table of contents.
Group Chief Director, Smart Skin Clinic Group
Ishii Kota
Career
Graduated from Juntendo University School of Medicine
Worked at Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital and affiliated facilities
Worked at a major aesthetic clinic in Tokyo
Affiliations / Qualifications
Board-certified specialist, Japan Surgical Society
Board-certified specialist, Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
What Is a Vampire Facial?
A Vampire Facial isa regenerative cosmetic treatment that uses the Dermapen 4 to create microscopic channels in the skin and deliver PRP (platelet-rich plasma) extracted from your own blood, encouraging the skin to regenerate..
Because the needle channels allow PRP to reach the dermis efficiently, greater results can be expected than with the Dermapen alone or PRP alone.
The name comes from the way the face turns red with blood during the procedure, resembling a vampire who has bathed in blood.
PRP is the plasma component of blood that contains a high concentration of platelets.
The collected blood is spun in a centrifuge to extract a platelet-rich layer, which is then delivered into the skin to encourage regeneration.
The growth factors released by platelets work on the "skin-healing power" naturally present in your own blood, addressing the root of a wide range of skin concerns such as wrinkles, sagging, and acne scars.
The Dermapen 4 is a medical device with 16 ultra-fine needles at the tip of a pen-shaped applicator.
It can create up to 1,920 microscopic channels in the skin per second, and the needle depth can be adjusted to match your concerns.
By intentionally creating microscopic wounds in the skin, it activates the skin's wound-healing mechanism, encouraging the formation of new collagen and elastin—the foundation of firmness and elasticity. A variety of effects can be expected depending on the solution combined with it.
Notification of Regenerative Medicine to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
In Japan, treatments using PRP—including the Vampire Facial—fall under the Act on the Safety of Regenerative Medicine (Act on Ensuring the Safety of Regenerative Medicine, etc.). Medical institutions offering the treatment must submit a Type 3 Regenerative Medicine Provision Plan to the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare, and only institutions approved by the government may perform it.
When choosing a clinic, check whether it has filed a Regenerative Medicine Provision Plan.This is a very important point for ensuring safety.
How the Vampire Facial Works
1) New collagen and elastin formation with the Dermapen
When the Dermapen creates microscopic channels in the skin, the skin interprets this as an injury and switches on its natural healing process. During this process, fibroblasts are activated, andnew collagen and elastin—essential for firmness and elasticity—are produced..
Collagen and elastin naturally decrease with age. As the wound-healing mechanism rebuilds them, you can expect tighter pores, restored firmness and elasticity, and improved skin texture.
(2) The role of growth factors contained in PRP
PRP contains many types of growth factors involved in skin regeneration. The main ones are as follows:
- PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor): promotes cell proliferation and collagen production
- TGF-β (transforming growth factor): increases collagen and elastin fibers
- VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor): improves skin blood flow through new blood vessel formation
- EGF (epidermal growth factor): normalizes epidermal cell turnover
- FGF (fibroblast growth factor): activates fibroblasts
theseAs these growth factors reach the dermis, the action of PRP is added on top of the effect of the Dermapen alone..
(3) Drug delivery system (how PRP penetrates to the dermis)
Normally, simply applying active ingredients such as PRP to the skin will not allow them to reach the dermis, as they are blocked by the stratum corneum of the epidermis. However, by using the Dermapen to create ultra-fine channels, a "pathway" is formed to deliver the active ingredients deep into the skin (drug delivery system).
By delivering PRP's growth factors to the dermis, the Vampire Facial can efficiently draw out the skin's regenerative response.This is made possible in this way.
What Concerns Can the Vampire Facial Help With?
- Improving stubborn "acne scars" such as craters
- Tightening "pores"
- Improving fine lines, skin firmness, and radiance (anti-aging care)
- Improving skin dullness, tone, and texture
Improving stubborn "acne scars" such as craters
Acne-scar craters (atrophic scars) are difficult for the skin to heal on its own and are among the hardest concerns to improve through self-care. The Vampire Facialthe Dermapen works directly on the craters while PRP's growth factors support collagen rebuilding, gradually smoothing the uneven texture of acne scars on the skin's surface.This is how the treatment is performed.
Furthermore, the paper below reports that combining PRP with microneedling (≈ Dermapen) produced a clinically significant improvement in atrophic acne scars (approximately 62.2%) compared with microneedling alone.
Asif, M., Kanodia, S., & Singh, K. (2016). Combined autologous platelet-rich plasma with microneedling verses microneedling with distilled water in the treatment of atrophic acne scars: a concurrent split-face study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 15(4), 434-443. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12207
Tightening "pores"
Sagging pores are caused by the loss of collagen with age, which weakens the support around the pores.
By combining the synergy of the Dermapen and PRP to increase collagen and elastin in the dermis, the Vampire Facial is designed to help tighten pores from within.
Rather than clogged pores such as those seen with a "strawberry nose,"it tends to show more noticeable results on age-related sagging pores.treatment.
Improving fine lines, skin firmness, and radiance (anti-aging care)
The Vampire Facial is also considered effective for aging signs such as fine lines around the eyes and mouth and a lack of firmness in the cheeks.
The Dermapen's wound-healing mechanism is activated, and the growth factors in PRP increase collagen and elastin fibers, thickening the dermis to create a firmness that seems to push back from within.It is designed to help reduce the appearance of fine lines around the eyes. It is ideal for those who notice fine lines around the eyes or an overall loss of skin vitality.
Improving skin dullness, tone, and texture
The Vampire Facial can also help with dullness and rough texture caused by disrupted skin turnover.The growth factor (EGF) contained in PRP normalizes epidermal turnover,making it easier for old dead skin cells to shed and allowing a new, healthy stratum corneum to develop, bringing the skin closer to a clearer, brighter appearance.
Differences Between the Vampire Facial, Dermapen 4, and PRP Injection
The Vampire Facial combines the "Dermapen" with "PRP (platelet-rich plasma)." The table below summarizes how it differs from each treatment performed on its own.
| Comparison point | Vampire Facial | Dermapen 4 alone | PRPInjection |
| Treatment Method | Dermapen + topical PRP | Dermapen only | Direct injection of PRP |
| Primary Purpose | Skin regeneration and skin-quality improvement | Improvement of skin quality | Improving wrinkles and hollows |
| Primary action | Wound healing + growth factors | Wound healing | Regeneration via growth factors |
| Concerns We Specialize In | Acne scars, pores, fine lines, firmness | Pores, texture, mild acne scars | Deep wrinkles and hollows |
| Areas addressed | Full face | Full face | Localized injection into the area of concern |
| Collagen production | Very high | High | Limited to specific areas |
| Downtime | About 3 days to 1 week | About 2 to 5 days | Swelling and bruising for several days |
| Allergy risk | Low (uses your own blood) | Depends on the solution used | Low (uses your own blood) |
| Those it is suited to | Those who want to fundamentally improve their overall skin | Those who want mild improvement in skin quality | Those who want to partially improve wrinkles and hollows |
*The above are general guidelines. Results vary from person to person depending on the needle depth, the solution used, and your skin type.
Even the Dermapen 4 alone can produce a collagen-boosting effect through the wound-healing mechanism.
However, in the Vampire Facial, which adds PRP, the PRP-derived growth factors enhance the regenerative response, sothe results per session and the improvement in deep acne scars tend to be greater.are available.
Also, while the Dermapen is recommended for concerns across the whole face, PRP injection is better suited to localized skin concerns.
Pricing
| Sessions | Regular Price | Limited discount price | Price per session |
| Once (20% OFF) | 59,800 yen | 47,800 yen | 47,800 yen |
| 3 sets (25% Off) | 159,000 yen | 119,000 yen | 39,667 yen |
| Set of 5 sessions (30% off) | 239,000 yen | 167,000 yen | 33,400 yen |
Combining With Other Treatments
The Vampire Facial can also be combined with other injection-based treatments.
However, care is needed regarding the spacing between treatments and how their downtime overlaps. We recommend always consulting with your doctor so that a plan can be designed to suit your skin condition.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Vampire Facial
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
| ・Low allergy risk, as it uses your own blood ・Can address multiple skin concerns at once ・Results tend to be relatively long-lasting ・Natural-looking results | ・Involves a blood draw ・Involves downtime ・Does not provide immediate results |
Because the Vampire Facial uses your own blood, the risk of allergy or rejection is extremely low, and it is popular in part because it enhances the skin's own regenerative ability for natural-looking results.
On the other hand, because it involves a blood draw, it can be a burden for those who dislike needles. Since results appear gradually with repeated sessions,it is not well suited to those seeking dramatic change in a short time..
Pain during the procedure can be eased with anesthesia
You may worry that "having needles inserted sounds painful." It is true that, because the Vampire Facial inserts the Dermapen needles into the skin, it would be quite painful without anesthesia. That is why a topical anesthetic (anesthetic cream) is applied to the entire face before the procedure.
Once the anesthetic has taken full effect, most patients feel only a "slight tingling" during the procedure. However, you may feel a sharper sensation in areas where the needle is set deeper, such as craters, or around the thin skin of the eyes and forehead.
Downtime, Recovery, Side Effects, and Risks You May Be Wondering About
Duration and Symptoms of Downtime
- Downtime period: about 3 days to 1 week
- Redness, swelling, warmth: eases within a few days
- Bruising: absorbed in about 1 week
- Peeling, dryness, itching: about 3 days to 1 week
- Needle marks: become less noticeable in 2 to 3 days
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: may appear weeks to months later and is more likely with inadequate UV protection
The deeper the Dermapen needle is set, the longer the downtime tends to be. The needle is set relatively deep for improving acne scars and craters, and relatively shallow for improving skin quality.
*Symptoms vary from person to person.
Redness and Swelling From Immediately After the Procedure to the Next Day
Immediately after the procedure, you will experience redness, warmth, and mild swelling, similar to after sunburn. This is a sign that the skin is undergoing its regenerative response, and it peaks in about 24 to 48 hours.
Since makeup can be applied from the next day, redness can be covered with foundation or concealer.
Peeling and Dryness From 3 Days to 1 Week After the Procedure
From the third day after the procedure, as skin turnover is stimulated, light peeling and dryness become more likely. Because the skin is very delicate during this period, please avoid rubbing it and keep to a simple skincare routine that prioritizes moisturizing. The peeling naturally settles down in about a week.
How to Spend Your Downtime
To spend your downtime comfortably and get the most out of your results, please keep the following in mind:
- Avoid bathing, saunas, strenuous exercise, and excessive alcohol on the day of the procedure (increased blood flow can worsen redness and swelling).
- Refrain from washing your face for 6 hours after the procedure to let the solution settle into the skin.
- Makeup can be applied from the next day.
- Take a break from harsh skincare for about 2 weeks (peeling, scrub cleansers, tretinoin, hydroquinone, etc.).
- Be thorough with UV protection (sunscreen, hats, parasols, etc.).
- If itching occurs, cool the area and do not rub it.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Although the Vampire Facial is a relatively safe procedure, because it is a medical treatment, the following side effects and risks may occur in addition to the downtime symptoms described above.
- Infection: Although extremely rare, a bacterial infection may occur at the treatment site. It is important to choose a medical institution with thorough hygiene practices.
- Allergic reaction: Because PRP is derived from your own blood, the risk of allergy to PRP itself is extremely low; however, reactions to the anesthetic or aftercare pack are possible.
Those who are not eligible for the treatment
The following individuals cannot receive the Vampire Facial. Please be sure to inform us during your pre-treatment consultation.
- Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Those with blood disorders (bleeding tendencies, coagulation abnormalities, etc.)
- Those currently taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet medication
- Those with a keloid-prone constitution
- Those with active acne, herpes, or infection at the treatment site
- Those undergoing treatment for autoimmune disease or cancer
- Those allergic to metals or anesthetics
How Many Sessions Are Needed to See Results? Guidelines for Frequency
- Number of treatments: once every 4 weeks × 3 to 5 times
- Time to notice results: skin firmness and radiance begin to appear in about 1 to 2 weeks, with gradual improvement over 3 to 6 months across several sessions
- Duration of results: about 6 months to 1 year
- Maintenance frequency: about once every 3 to 6 months
Some patients notice a change in skin firmness and radiance after just one Vampire Facial session, but because it takes time for new collagen and elastin to form, dramatic changes do not appear immediately after treatment.
To achieve a clear visible change, we recommend receiving at least 3 to 5 treatments.In particular,5 or more sessions are recommended for deep craters and severe acne scars..
The interval between treatments is generally once every 4 weeks (about one month), taking into account the skin's turnover cycle and recovery time. Repeating treatments at shorter intervals can place excessive strain on the skin and may instead lead to irritation.
If I stop the Vampire Facial, will my skin return to how it was?
Many people worry, "If I stop, will the effect drop to zero and my skin go back to how it was?" In short,your skin will not suddenly revert to its original state..
This is because the collagen and elastin newly formed through the treatment do not disappear right away.
However, collagen and elastin are components that decrease day by day due to aging and UV exposure. With continued treatment, you can maintain a regeneration cycle that offsets this decrease, but if you stop treatment, your skin returns to its natural pace of aging.
In other words,It is more accurate to think of it as "stopping = returning to natural aging" rather than "stopping = getting worse."Continuing regular maintenance is the best choice for keeping your skin beautiful over the long term.
The Vampire Facial Treatment Flow
Please feel free to share any concerns or wishes you have. We will examine you in detail to determine whether the Vampire Facial is suitable for you. There is no sales pressure or up-selling, so you are welcome to come in for a consultation only.
Since PRP uses your own blood, a standard blood draw is performed.
PRP is extracted and processed at our in-house facility. This takes approximately 1 hour (you're welcome to step out during this time).
Because anesthesia is applied before the procedure, there is little to no pain during injection. After cleansing your face, a topical anesthetic cream is applied to the entire face, and we wait about 20 to 30 minutes.
Using the Dermapen 4 with the needle depth adjusted to your skin condition, microscopic channels are created evenly across the entire face, allowing the extracted PRP to penetrate into the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Vampire Facial
- Can men receive the Vampire Facial?
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Yes, absolutely. It is a highly popular treatment for deep acne scars (craters) and is especially well received among male patients.
- How much does the Vampire Facial hurt?
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Because a topical anesthetic cream is applied, most patients feel no more than a slight tingling sensation during the procedure.
- Can the Vampire Facial be combined with other cosmetic treatments?
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Yes, it can. Since the spacing between treatments and their downtime need to be taken into account, please consult with your doctor.
- How long are the needles used in the Vampire Facial?
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The Dermapen 4 needle can be adjusted from 0.2mm to 3.0mm in 0.1mm increments. Your doctor will set the optimal depth to match the area of your face and your skin concerns.
- What benefits does the Vampire Facial offer?
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This treatment can address multiple skin concerns at once, including acne scars (craters), enlarged pores, fine lines, firmness and elasticity, and dullness.
- Is there any downtime with the Vampire Facial?
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Yes, downtime lasts roughly 3 days to 1 week. The main symptoms are redness, swelling, and peeling.
- Will the Vampire Facial leave scars?
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As a rule, no needle marks remain. The microscopic channels created by the Dermapen close within a short time thanks to the skin's natural healing ability.
- How many Vampire Facial treatments are needed?
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It depends on your particular concerns, but 3 to 5 treatments are generally recommended to see a clear visible change.
The Vampire Facial at Smart Skin Clinic
The Vampire Facial combines PRP made from your own blood with the Dermapen 4 to draw out the skin's self-regenerating ability to the fullest. It can address multiple concerns at once—such as acne scars, pores, fine lines, and a lack of firmness—and because it uses your own blood, the allergy risk is low, making it a highly safe form of regenerative medicine.
On the other hand, there are aspects to consider, such as non-zero downtime, the burden of a blood draw, and the need for multiple sessions. It is a treatment suited to those seeking "fundamental improvement" rather than "immediate results."
Our clinic isa medical institution approved by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for its Regenerative Medicine Provision Plan.We keep unnecessary costs down and provide treatment at smart, reasonable prices. We do not engage in unnecessary upselling.
Please feel free to come in for a free consultation first.
Details
| Treatment Time | 40–60 minutes (plus about 1 hour of waiting time while the PRP is being prepared) |
| Recommended Number & Frequency of Treatments | 3 to 5 times, about once every 4 weeks |
| Downtime | About 3 to 7 days |
| Treatment on the day of counseling | Available |
| Makeup | 12 hours recommended |
| Skincare | We recommend not using face wash, toner, emulsion, etc. for 12 hours |
| Shower | Wait 12 hours for the face; from the neck down is possible the same day |
*Results vary from person to person.
Reference
Clinic List
Jimbocho Clinic
〒101-0054
3-16-1 Kanda Nishiki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, EX Kanda Nishiki-cho Building 8F (general reception) / 7F
Hours: Mon–Fri 11:00–20:00 / Sat & Sun 10:00–19:00
Yokohama Clinic
〒221-0835
TS Plaza Building 2F, 2-23-2 Tsuruya-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
Hours: 10:00–19:00
About the physician supervision of this site
This site is operated under the supervision of a Smart Skin Clinic supervising physician.
This page was produced in accordance with the Medical Advertising Guidelines Medical Advertising Guidelines revised and enforced in June 2018, under which we produce and provide this information.
- Scope of supervision: treatment descriptions, risks and side effects, price display
- Last supervision date: June 26, 2025