We Tried the Viral "Salmon Sperm" Polynucleotide DNA Facial
It’s a little less crazy than it sounds.
We’ve heard of wild celebrity facial treatments, but none sparked our interest more than the “Salmon Sperm” facial. The treatment became popular amongst stars like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston for its incredible healing properties, delivering the trifecta of skin goodness: plumpness, radiance and tightening. Popularized in South Korea, the science behind the “Salmon Sperm” facial includes the extraction and purification of polynucleotides from salmon sperm, allowing for natural DNA to be taken out and injected or applied topically onto the face. Polynucleotides are small chains of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA — they are used to improve the quality of the skin.
I heard about how insane the results were from just about everybody who works in beauty, so, when I got the offer to try it, I couldn’t say no.
Below, you can read more about my experience at The Spa by Equinox Hotels with Dr. Jennifer Tsai, the ins-and-outs of the treatment and whether or not you should try it, too.
Salmon Polynucleotide DNA Facial: The Rundown
Best for: Those who want to improve skin quality, skin texture and stimulate the production of collagen
Price: $500 to $1,000 USD per session, depending on the location
Rating: 10/10
Salmon Polynucleotide DNA Facial: Why the Hype
This treatment is a two-step process in which, at first, microneedling or microneedling with radiofrequency, is performed on the face. Here, tiny microchannels are created in the skin and then the salmon polynucleotide DNA is applied to the surface. Through the micro-punctures, the salmon DNA is delivered into the layers of the skin. The microneedling process allows the treatment to penetrate further. The salmon polynucleotide DNA, when applied topically, stimulates the production of collagen, improves skin elasticity and texture, as well as reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It can also help with acne scarring and plumping the skin.
Salmon Polynucleotide DNA Facial: An Honest Review
The process, especially at the Equinox Hotel, is comfortable from beginning to start. The environment of the hotel’s spa and treatment rooms is very relaxing — the lighting is dim and it doesn’t feel as clinical as where you’d usually get a facial treatment like this. So, from the start, you’re a little less anxious about the pain you might feel during the procedure. First, numbing cream in a gel-like texture is applied to minimize any discomfort. The procedure is very safe, allowing for a quick recovery process. After the numbing, a typical session lasts around 60 minutes for the full face, including the eye area. Results are usually seen after the first treatment after a few weeks, but several sessions are recommended for optimal results.
To be completely honest, this is not the most comfortable treatment. It’s a bit painful, depending on the length of needle you choose. The bigger the needle, the more painful it is. First, the provider will go over one area of your face with the tool and then apply the salmon polynucleotide DNA on top of it, to speed up the healing process and get the most absorption. The texture of the product is a silk serum with no distinctive smell or sensation. It stimulates collagen and elastin production, activates fibroblasts and stem cells, kickstarting your body’s natural skin renewal process. The treatment provider will go over the forehead, cheekbones and jawline with two passes, before a final application of the “salmon sperm.”
Post-procedure, I was a little red but felt little to no pain — this is surprising, because the first time I got microneedling done, I was in pain for days. The next day, I woke up with some flaking. After three days, I felt like my skin was back to normal.
Salmon Polynucleotide DNA Facial: The Final Verdict
To be honest, I loved this facial wholeheartedly. Although you need multiple sessions to see more permanent results, it can become something that improves your skin quality and texture over time, especially if you’re dealing with acne scarring or fine lines and wrinkles. I’ve had microneedling with radiofrequency before and this time around, I healed significantly faster. I noticed that after a few weeks, my skin was firmer, softer and tighter. I feel like my skin texture has significantly improved, even after one treatment — I’ve even gotten compliments on how glowy my skin has been looking recently. I’d definitely get a second or third round of this treatment to see how my skin could improve even more.
You can get the Salmon Polynucleotide DNA Facial with or without radiofrequency at the Equinox Hotels — pricing will vary.
While you’re here, check out our review of New York’s “It-Girl” facial from esthetician Elizabeth Grace Hand.
