Why Salmon Sperm Facials Are the Newest Anti-Aging Skin Care Trend

What Are the Ingredients?

A salmon sperm facial is also known as a PDRN treatment. It harnesses polynucleotides, DNA-building compounds found in salmon sperm, said Hannah Kopelman, MD, a dermatologist in private practice at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery.

Benefits of Salmon Sperm Facials

While the science is still evolving, there is some evidence to show that salmon sperm facials can benefit your skin, said Adam Friedman, MD, a professor and chair of dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

These five potential benefits include:

• Anti-aging effects: Salmon sperm facials could reduce fine lines and wrinkles by promoting collagen production. One study even found that these treatments improved skin elasticity.
• Better skin texture: More collagen may translate to smoother, more radiant skin.
• Skin hydration: One study linked the treatment to better skin hydration.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Early research (mostly in animals) suggests that PDRN may reduce inflammation and potentially ease symptoms of conditions like arthritis, gum disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. However, more research is needed in humans to understand these effects, and those benefits wouldn’t necessarily come with a facial treatment.
• Wound healing: Animal studies indicate that PDRN may help speed skin repair, but more research is needed to confirm its effects in humans.

Drawbacks of Salmon Sperm Facials

While the treatment is generally considered safe, there isn’t much scientific research to back up all the claims, said Mansha Sethi Thacker, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at St. Luke’s University Health Network.

Another issue is that it could cause an allergic reaction. For topical treatments, it’s best to do a patch test to check for skin irritation or allergies, she added.

There also might be ethical concerns due to the use of salmon sperm. “If you avoid animal-derived ingredients, this probably isn’t the treatment for you,” Sethi Thacker said.

Conclusion

Salmon sperm facials are getting attention for their supposed anti-aging benefits. However, results vary from person to person, with some potential drawbacks. Given the limited scientific evidence and regulatory concerns, it’s best to talk to a dermatologist first.

FAQs

Q: What is a salmon sperm facial?
A: A salmon sperm facial is a type of skin treatment that uses the proteins and nutrients found in salmon sperm to nourish and rejuvenate the skin.

Q: How does it work?
A: The treatment harnesses polynucleotides, DNA-building compounds found in salmon sperm, to promote collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Q: Are there any side effects?
A: Yes, there is a risk of allergic reaction, and it may not be suitable for those who avoid animal-derived ingredients.

Q: Is it safe?
A: While the treatment is generally considered safe, there isn’t much scientific research to back up all the claims.