Salmon Sperm Facials: Unpacking The Science Of the Latest Anti-Aging Trend

Salmon sperm injections have reportedly become a popular new option in anti-aging and rejuvenating facial treatments. After getting past the initial shock over the unusual ingredient, the key question arises: Is there any scientific evidence supporting this celebrity-endorsed trend?

Salmon sperm facials attracted significant attention in August 2023 when actress Jennifer Aniston revealed in The Wall Street Journal interview that she had tried the treatment—though she admitted she couldn’t confirm any effects. Over a year later, she confirmed it again on Jimmy Kimmel Live, following Kim Kardashian’s public endorsement of the facial, which seemingly helped propel the trend into the spotlight.

But first, what exactly is a salmon sperm facial? You’ll be glad to hear it doesn’t involve spreading fish ejaculate on your face. However, if you’re afraid of needles, it might be less comforting to learn that the treatment involves microinjections of polynucleotides (PNs) into the skin. PNs are DNA or RNA fragments, and in this case, they’re derived from salmon sperm cells. Unlike some beauty claims, the regenerative effects attributed to PNs have scientific support.

Scientific Evidence Supporting PDRN Therapy and Its Skin Benefits

In 2022, the Chinese Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery published a review of preclinical and clinical studies on polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a type of PN mainly extracted from salmon sperm. The research highlighted several benefits of PDRN therapy, including reducing fine lines and wrinkles, boosting skin elasticity and firmness through collagen production, repairing damage from chronic inflammation or sun exposure, reducing scars, improving skin hydration, and enhancing overall skin quality.

In 2024, the Journal of Dermatological Treatment published a study evaluating Rejuran, the brand name for salmon sperm facials—and its effectiveness in treating burns and scars. The researchers observed significant improvements, including reduced scar visibility. The study featured eight case reports in which patients with various types of scars from trauma, burns, and surgery received Rejuran treatment, demonstrating its versatility in scar healing.

Research indicates that PDRN works by activating the adenosine A2A receptor, which blocks oxidative stress-related signaling, suppresses pro-inflammatory chemicals, and encourages the release of anti-inflammatory agents. Additionally, this receptor activation promotes collagen production, a key protein for skin structure and tissue repair. It also enhances skin healing by stimulating new blood vessel growth from existing ones.

Unlike Botox, which works by blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine to freeze muscles and reduce wrinkles, salmon sperm injections act at the cellular level through the effects of polynucleotides described above.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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