Celebs And TikTokers Are Injecting Salmon Sperm Into Their Skin, But Should You? Dermatologists Weigh In.
When celebrities sounds off about their favorite facial treatments, it doesn't take long before they go viral. Occasionally, they raise eyebrows—remember Kim Kardashian's vampire facial or Jennifer Aniston’s ice water facial). Well, in an ironic twist of fate, there's another trending treatment that both of those A-listers have raved about once again: salmon sperm facials.
Yes, you read that right.
What's the deal? "You basically put salmon sperm on your face in form of polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN) and purified polynucleotide (PN), both of which are painted onto skin," explains board-certified dermatologist Jeanine Downie, MD. While it doesn't sound very glamorous, people who have tried it swear by its ability to improve their skin's health.
Meet the experts: Jeanine Downie, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Image Dermatology. Teresa Song, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical. Jeanine Downie, MD, is a board certified dermatologist at Image Dermatology.
And when you take a good look at the benefits (more on that below), you might find yourself wanting to try it out. But before you hit the spa to book an appointment, there are a few things worth looking into. Ahead you'll find everything there is to know about the treatment, along with expert advice on what to expect and if it's really worth it.
Ok, so what exactly is a salmon sperm facial?
If you're wondering how this works, trust me, you're not alone. For starters, it's helpful to know that "salmon sperm facial" is only the colloquial name for the treatment. In your doctor's office, it would be called a polynucleotide treatment. It's a facial that revolves around the use of polynucleotides, long chains of proteins linked together by sugars and phosphates that come from the sperm cells of salmon and trout, per Dr. Downie,
There are two ways the facial can be done: topically or with injections. You'll start the process by arriving to your appointment with a clean face (no makeup, skincare products, or sunscreen). If you're doing a topical application, your provider will apply a serum containing polynucleotides. Then, before rinsing, they'll massage it into your skin or use a tool such as a Hydrafacial machine to help with absorption, says board-certified dermatologist Teresa Song, MD.
If you'd prefer to get injections, your provider will apply numbing cream before using a needle to transfer those polynucleotides directly into the dermis. And that's where things get tricky: Overall, there's a lack of research on this form of delivery. Dr. Song adds that most studies on the affect of polynucleotide injections have been tested in cell lines and animal models. "The safety of injecting these substances into the skin has not yet been validated in large scale human studies, and therefore, it is not recommended for the general population at this stage," she says. Because of this, she believes that topical application is the safest route.
What are the benefits of a salmon sperm facial
Most people go into a skincare treatment hoping for skin that looks and feels better, and that's exactly what you can expect from a salmon sperm facial. "A salmon sperm facial can improve overall skin quality through its collagen boosting, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory properties," says Dr. Song. "The cumulative benefits can help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and improve skin elasticity."
The benefits make this facial the perfect treatment for anyone looking to address aging, dull skin, dryness, and dehydration. Those who decide to do this facial can see a noticeable plumpness and glow almost immediately after. However, whether you do it topically or with injections makes a difference. For example, injections lead to some temporary redness and swelling. After several treatments (that should be scheduled four weeks apart), you should be able to see a difference.
The root cause of the issues you're trying to treat also determine how long it will take to see noticeable results. For example, if you have deep wrinkles caused by lifestyle choices such as sun damage from tanning or smoking, it may take longer to see improvements.
How much does a salmon sperm facial cost?
The cost of a salmon sperm facial varies depending on the practice and location. However, Dr. Song says a pure topical application can start at $200 and go up to $700 if it's combined with other procedures. Meanwhile, Dr. Downie says the price can go as high as $1,000. "It's being used around the world and it's exciting and interesting, but it might not be worth it for now until more clinical trials are done," she says.
Bottom line: With more proven rejuvenating methods available to you, such as laser treatments, and neuromodulators like Botox, this is a tide you may want to swim against for now.
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