Skinfluencers claim that topical salmon-sperm serums can give your skin a glow, but the reality isn’t as impressive. While scrolling through TikTok, I think of Elizabeth Báthory, a 16th-century Hungarian countess rumored to bathe in virgins’ blood to maintain her youth. Despite debates on her being a serial killer, she’s a reminder of the lengths people go for beauty. From vampire facials to snail mucin to bird poop treatments, vanity knows no bounds. The latest trend is Rejuran, a Korean skincare serum featuring PDRN from salmon sperm, promising rejuvenation, elasticity, and collagen production.
PDRN, or polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a DNA fragment initially sourced from human placenta but now mostly from salmon sperm. Though traditionally an injectable, Rejuran launched a topical version. The skepticism around its efficacy as a serum runs counter to the allure of youthful skin. According to cosmetic chemist Victoria Fu, injectables deliver deeper, more effective results than topical products.
Despite a lack of robust evidence for topical PDRN, influencers and celebrities swear by it. Initially a pricey treatment reserved for those able to travel to Korea, it has become more accessible at around $52 per bottle. PDRN’s promotion is part of broader wellness marketing, where even the smart consumer might succumb to trendy promises.
Fu advises that while PDRN is safe, serums cannot replicate injections and shouldn’t overshadow essentials like sunscreen and retinoids. The main risk is financial, yet users can be drawn into the hype.
Ultimately, the fascination lies in experimenting with new products, balanced with fundamental skincare practices. While I’ve tried salmon sperm serums, there’s little noticeable change, but the exploration was enjoyable.