In their quest for flawless and youthful skin, beauty freaks are willing to do anything. From getting vampire facials to applying snail mucin on their faces, we have seen them doing some bizarre things in the name of beauty on social media.

The latest obsession? The salmon sperm facial. The trend has skyrocketed in popularity since Hollywood star Jennifer Aniston admitted to trying it.

Enjoying a delicious salmon dish is one thing, getting a salmon sperm facial is a whole new level of insanity.

What is this?

“Salmon sperm? Sounds disgusting, right? But that’s not really the case with the ingredients. It’s a popular K-Beauty trend because of its anti-ageing skin benefits. It uses polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a term for purified molecules found in the DNA of salmon fish. It’s injected on the face to improve skin tone, repair damaged cells, increase hyaluronic acid levels and hydrate your skin,” says Dr Rinky Kapoor, a Delhi-based dermatologist at The Aesthetic Clinics. india today,

Further, Dr. Shifa Yadav, Consultant, Dermatology and Cosmetology, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, explains that polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), an active mixture of polynucleotides with molecular weights ranging from 50 to 1500 kDa, is extracted and purified primarily from sperm cells of salmon trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) or chum salmon (Oncorhynchus kita).

How is this done?

According to Dr Kapoor, this Korean beauty trend involves applying DNA extracted from salmon sperm to the face to enhance facial features.

• This process first requires cleansing and exfoliating your skin to remove any impurities or dead skin cells.
• Next, a special serum containing salmon sperm DNA is applied liberally to the face.
• The serum is then applied to the skin by massaging it for 10 to 20 minutes for better absorption.
• People can also get DNA extracted from salmon sperm injected into their faces by a certified cosmetologist.

Dr. Yadav says, “Injections are more effective and give quick and long-term results.”

The doctor also explains how salmon sperm differs from facial fillers.

“Fillers are hyaluronic-based injectables and physically plump up the skin. The polynucleotide acts as a bio-stimulant, increasing the body’s fibroblast cells and therefore increasing collagen and elastin levels, without adding any additional volume,” she says.

What’s good in this?

“Some people claim that this facial has anti-aging properties that can make skin look younger and supple,” says Dr. Kapoor. “The DNA from salmon sperm is believed to improve collagen production, which may help reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines.”

She adds, “It also promotes the growth of new skin cells, giving a fresh look. However, there is not enough evidence or research to prove the effectiveness and benefits of this K-beauty trend.”

In the meantime, Dr. Yadav shares some more benefits/clinical implications of polynucleotides:

• anti inflammation
• Anti-osteoporosis
• anti-ulcer
• wound healing
• Preventive effect on scar formation
• Helps with hyperpigmentation

Are there any side effects?

Experts say that people who get salmon sperm facial done may experience various types of allergies and side effects on the skin.

• These include mild to severe swelling at the injection area, facial rash, redness, and bruising.
• If these symptoms persist for more than a week, immediate medical attention may be required to avoid further complications.
• It can also cause serious skin problems that can be life-threatening, such as blocked blood vessels, skin lumps, and skin infections.

Should you seek treatment?

Dr. Yadav says that almost anyone who wants to improve skin quality, sagging and wrinkles can undergo a salmon sperm facial, as it gives very natural results and is very safe without any side effects.

The doctor further added, “It is great for dark circles under eyes and the results are visible in one go. It works wonders for dull and dehydrated skin, and gives the skin a very subtle natural glow.”

According to the expert, three sessions are usually recommended and the results last for 6-8 months.

While this treatment can give you naturally glowing skin with fewer wrinkles and lines, it cannot help you get a lifted look because it is not a filler, nor does it replace any volume loss in the face.

Popularity in India

Dr. Yadav says, “Salmon sperm facial is slowly becoming popular in India too due to its quick and natural results.”

On the other hand, Dr Kapoor says that beauty enthusiasts in India do not experiment much when it comes to their skin and try to choose safer and more effective options.

However, it is important to note that although PDRN has many therapeutic properties, further research is needed to identify more cost-effective extraction methods and maximize its use in the cosmetic industry.

Reserve your appointment

It is important to consult your cosmetologist before getting a salmon sperm facial and understand the potential benefits and side effects of the treatment.

• This will help you assess the effectiveness of the treatment and prepare mentally.
• Get a facial done by a certified and experienced cosmetologist to ensure your safety.
• Don’t follow this trend just because it is being supported on social media.
• You can also get similar results from other expert-recommended facials that offer similar benefits, such as erasing fine lines and wrinkles.

There are many other facials or beauty treatments available that are safer and more effective than salmon sperm facials. These are vitamin C facials, collagen facials, and hyaluronic facials. Maintaining a proper skincare routine can also give you similar results.