Salmon Sperm Facials: Costs and Benefits of This Korean Skincare Trend

Salmon sperm facials are a regenerative treatment rooted in Korean aesthetic medicine that has gained substantial popularity in recent years. Although it has an unusual name, this highly effective form of biostimulatory therapy uses purified DNA (PDRN) that is extracted from salmon sperm to rejuvenate and heal skin. 

Part of the popularity of this trend is that it aligns with regenerative skincare that works to improve the overall function of the skin, not simply mask signs of aging. Unlike traditional facials that focus on exfoliation or surface hydration, salmon sperm facials aim to activate cellular repair pathways that enhance the skin’s long-term health and resilience.

PDRN facials are increasingly being offered in medical spas, dermatology clinics, and other cosmetic practices, and are known for their ability to accelerate the healing process, boost collagen, and improve texture with minimal recovery time. For providers interested in regenerative practices like PDRN, peptides, and exosomes, you can find educational opportunities through Empire Medical’s virtual and on-site training courses. 

In this article, we’ll explain what a salmon sperm facial treatment is, how exactly it works, what benefits patients can expect, and how much these treatments typically cost. 

What Is a Salmon Sperm Facial?

Salmon sperm facials use PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) (highly purified DNA fragments from salmon sperm) to stimulate healing, collagen production, hydration, and overall skin rejuvenation. PDRN can be applied topically or delivered via microneedling for deeper penetration and better overall results. 

Rather than acting as a cosmetic quick fix, this facial works by supporting the skin’s natural repair mechanisms. By improving cellular communication and tissue recovery, PDRN facials help restore healthier skin architecture over time. 

Providers can learn advanced regenerative skincare procedures, including PDRN and combination protocols, through Empire’s Anti-Aging & Regenerative Workshops.

How Does Salmon Sperm (PDRN) Work on the Skin?

PDRN treatments don’t use the sperm cell itself. Instead, it utilizes the purified DNA extracted from salmon sperm. These DNA fragments can activate powerful cellular repair pathways.  

PDRN activates several complementary pathways that, in turn, support skin repair, enhance collagen production, improve hydration, and manage inflammation. Instead of targeting a single issue, salmon sperm facials work to restore overall skin function.

Here are some ways PDRN facials impact the skin: 

• Activates A2A Adenosine Receptors: This receptor helps regulate tissue healing, collagen synthesis, and inflammation control. PDRN also makes skin more focused on repairs, which can support healthier overall cells.

• Enhances Collagen & Elastin Production: PDRN stimulates fibroblasts, which can strengthen dermal structure and improve fine lines. Over time, this change leads to firmer, more elastic skin minus the stiffness associated with more aggressive collagen-stimulating treatments.

• Deep Hydration Effects: The DNA’s water-binding capacity boosts moisture retention and barrier repair. This can improve the skin’s resilience and help reduce transepidermal water loss, which makes the skin appear fuller and more balanced.

• Accelerates Skin Healing: PDRN improves recovery after processes such as microneedling, lasers, chemical peels, or PRP (platelet-rich plasma) facials. 

• Reduces Redness and Inflammation: Salmon sperm facials are ideal for sensitive, irritated, or post-procedure skin. According to the National Institute of Health, PDRN demonstrates strong wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effects in dermatology and regenerative medicine (NIH).

What are the Benefits of Salmon Sperm (PDRN) Facials?

Salmon sperm facial benefits go far beyond just surface-level improvements. Because PDRN can support regeneration at the cellular level, patients often notice immediate and long-term improvements in skin without needing to return for multiple treatments. 

Common benefits patients report include:

• Brighter, more even complexion: Salmon sperm facials can improve discoloration, dullness, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. By supporting healthy cell turnover and reducing inflammation, skin tone often appears clearer and more balanced.

• Enhanced skin hydration: These injections strengthen moisture barriers and provide a dewy, plump appearance. Improved barrier function also helps the skin stay hydrated for longer, which reduces flakiness and tightness.  

• Reduction in fine lines and early wrinkles: PDRN is also effective for under-eye and periocular rejuvenation. Gradual collagen support can soften fine creases while preserving natural facial movement.

• Improved texture and scar appearance: These facials can help treat acne scarring, rough texture, and enlarged pores. 

• Faster healing after microneedling or lasers: PDRN reduces your typical recovery time after microneedling or laser resurfacing.

• Reduced redness and skin sensitivity: This treatment can have anti-inflammatory effects that calm irritated or reactive skin. It is especially beneficial for patients prone to rosacea-like flushing or post-procedure sensitivity.

Salmon Sperm Facial vs. PDRN Injection: What’s the Difference?

Although topical facials offer great hydration and radiance, injections deliver stronger anti-aging and regenerative effects.

How are Salmon Sperm Facials Performed?

For providers performing salmon sperm facials, there is a typical structured protocol in place. However, there is flexibility to alter the treatments to the needs of individual patients as needed. 

Here are the standard steps of a typical salmon sperm facial: 

• Skin Prep: First, the area needs to be cleansed and exfoliated. Next, a numbing agent for microneedling-based facials is applied. This helps reduce irritation and ensures the PDRN serum will penetrate effectively. 

• Microneedling or Microchannel Creation: Next, the provider will need to create microchannels. Providers typically use microneedling pens, RF microneedling, or microinfusion devices for this step. 

• Application of PDRN Serum: PDRN is then applied immediately after microchannels are created to ensure absorption. Acting quickly allows the regenerative DNA fragments to better support healing and collagen production.

• Healing & Hydration Mask: Once this process is completed, providers will often offer LED therapy to enhance anti-inflammatory benefits. This step keeps skin calm, reduces redness, and supports post-treatment recovery.

• Aftercare Instructions: Your provider will give specific instructions, such as avoiding makeup for 12–24 hours, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy sweating.

How Much Do Salmon Sperm Facials Cost? 

Pricing reflects not only the procedure itself, but also product purity, provider expertise, and the regenerative potential of the treatment. When reviewing salmon sperm facial before and after outcomes, patients should consider the cumulative benefits of multiple sessions rather than a single treatment.

Average Costs in the U.S.:

Factors that influence cost:

• Product source and purity

• Provider expertise

• Inclusion of energy-based treatments

• Number of sessions in a package

A typical series of PDRN facials includes 3–4 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Salmon Sperm Facials?

Salmon sperm facials are an ideal treatment option for patients looking for gradual, natural-looking skin improvements rather than immediate, dramatic changes. They are also an excellent option for those who struggle with aggressive facial resurfacing treatments. 

Ideal candidates include patients with:

• Dehydrated skin

• Early signs of aging

• Acne scarring

• Rough texture

• Inflammation

• Hyperpigmentation

• Redness or sensitivity 

Patients should avoid salmon sperm facials if they have: 

• Severe fish allergies

• Active infections

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

How do PDRN Facials Differ From Traditional Hydrating Facials?

How Can Providers Get Trained in PDRN and Advanced Regenerative Facials?

Salmon sperm facials are one of the most innovative Korean skincare trends in recent memory. They provide opportunities for real, regenerative benefits that go far beyond surface hydration. 

Clinicians trained in PDRN facial protocols provide opportunities to attract trend-seeking patients and expand their overall regenerative treatment menu. However, providers offering injectable and regenerative aesthetic treatments should also be trained in recognizing and managing complications to help ensure patient safety. 

If you’re interested in training for PDRN facials, microneedling protocols, or other regenerative injection strategies, enroll in Empire’s hands-on Anti-Aging & Regenerative Workshops to learn more.