 "What are salmon sperm facials popular among Hollywood celebs?")
Just when you think beauty trends can’t get more fishy, they literally do. A new skincare trend is now taking over the red carpet – salmon sperm facial.
Last year, F.R.I.E.N.D.S star Jennifer Aniston opened up in an interview with the Wall Street Journal, revealing her regimen of “weekly peptide injections that purport to battle the effects of aging”. Despite her aesthetician’s strong recommendations, Aniston expressed some doubts about the actual benefits to her skin.
More recently, Kim Kardashian has also embraced this unusual treatment. Earlier this year, during an episode of The Kardashians, she told her mother, Kris Jenner, “I got a salmon sperm facial,” adding for clarity, “With salmon sperm injected into my face.”
After getting mentions from A-list stars, this peculiar beauty trend is gaining in popularity, it’s captivating the imaginations (and faces) of beauty enthusiasts worldwide. Here’s what we know of the treatment
What is salmon sperm facial?
Salmon sperm facials, technically known as polynucleotide therapy, involve the use of polynucleotides—small fragments of DNA and RNA.
Dr. Richard Westreich, a facial plastic surgeon in New York City, explained to The Guardian that these fragments can stimulate the production of new blood vessels, collagen, and keratinocytes, which are essential for generating new skin cells.
“It’s basically an overall skin boost,” said Dr Westreich.
Polynucleotide treatments have been available in Europe and Korea for long. In those regions, the formula is typically injected directly into the skin.
In India, clinics like The Ageless Clinic in Mumbai and Maya Medi Spa have been offering this skin regeneration treatment for over seven months, as per a LiveMint report.
This treatment though is heavy on the pocket. Each micro-needling session can cost between Rs 8,000 and Rs 11,000, plus taxes. Prices may increase based on the use of more advanced tools and additional ingredients. Doctors typically recommend a minimum of three to four sessions, depending on individual skin conditions.
But why salmon sperm?
The similarity between salmon DNA and human DNA is what makes it so compatible with our skin, according to Dr. Richard Westreich.
The polynucleotides in this therapy were initially derived from the spermatozoa of salmon or trout. In this process, the nucleus is removed from the trout sperm, and the extracted DNA is used to produce the polynucleotides.
Due to salmon DNA closely resembling human DNA, the skin tends to accept it well without causing inflammation. Additionally, fish testes are rich in DNA, which makes extraction more efficient.
“Unlike regular fillers, it’s a bio-stimulator, a highly purified form of DNA derived from salmon DNA, injected into the skin. It mimics about 96-98 per cent of our DNA. It helps stimulate cell renewal, which plays a pivotal role in encouraging the production of new skin cells and works on fine lines, uneven dry skin and minimises pore size and sagging,” Chaitanya Kenchammanahoskote, the founder of Maya Medi Spa told Livemint.
What does it help with?
Polynucleotide therapy offers an array of skin rejuvenation benefits that can target both the face and body. According to Glowday, this treatment can be applied to various areas, including the neck, décolletage, around the eyes, back of the hands, abdomen, thighs, knees, arms, and even stretch marks.
The primary benefits include increased hydration, improved tissue elasticity and tightness, and overall skin revitalisation.
Polynucleotides can also help smooth out lumpy or sunken scars, reduce acne scarring, and address skin issues like hyperpigmentation, melasma, and rosacea. They are also noted for reducing general signs of facial aging and even addressing eyebrow and scalp hair loss.
However, this treatment is not for everyone. It can be potentially unsuitable for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone with a fish allergy.
Is it really effective?
While salmon sperm facials have shown promising results for some, they aren’t guaranteed to work for everyone. Dr Westreich explains that individual reactions can vary, stating, “There’s going to be variability between people in terms of how their body reacts.”
The effects of this treatment generally last around six to nine months. Side effects are usually minimal, but as with any injectable, there is a risk of bruising and inflammation. For those undergoing microneedling with the treatment, temporary redness and swelling are possible.
Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Taglia, medical director at Northwestern Regional Medical Group, advises caution. Speaking with The Guardian, she said, “I think there are more studies needed” and is holding off on recommending the treatment until further research can confirm its effectiveness.
With input from agencies
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