Kim Kardashian’s “Salmon Sperm Facial”: What It Really Is
When Kim Kardashian revealed on Keeping Up With The Kardashians that she tried a “salmon sperm facial,” the internet went wild. Beauty forums, TikTok, and news sites quickly picked it up — and it’s easy to see why. The name alone grabs attention.
But beyond the viral nickname lies a science-backed treatment with real regenerative benefits. What Kim likely experienced is a polynucleotide (PN) skin booster, a therapy that uses purified DNA fragments to stimulate repair, regeneration, and long-term skin health.
Far from being just another passing beauty trend, PN skin boosters have been widely used in South Korea and are now gaining popularity in Singapore for their ability to improve skin texture, hydration, elasticity, and even acne scars.
So, What Exactly Is the “Salmon Sperm Facial”?
The term is catchy — but also misleading. There’s no sperm involved. What the treatment actually uses are polynucleotides (PNs), DNA fragments that act as bioactive messengers to encourage the skin to heal and regenerate.
These PNs are usually derived from natural sources such as salmon or trout DNA. Kim’s treatment was salmon-derived, which explains the viral “salmon sperm” name.
What Are Polynucleotides (PNs)?
To put it simply, polynucleotides are long chains of nucleotides — the building blocks of DNA. When purified and introduced into the skin, they act like biological messengers that communicate with skin cells, stimulating repair and regeneration.
Because they are structurally similar to human DNA, PNs are well accepted by the body, with low risk of rejection.
How Do Polynucleotides Work in the Skin?
More than just hydrating agents — they actively repair, regenerate, and strengthen skin from within. Once introduced into the skin, these DNA fragments interact with fibroblasts (the cells responsible for building collagen and elastin) and the extracellular matrix to restore balance and vitality.
Skin revitalization effects of salmon-derived polynucleotide skin boosters, showing improvements in elasticity, collagen composition, and surface texture. Source: Chang Sik Pak et al., 2014
Here’s how they work:
Collagen and elastin biostimulation → Polynucleotides activate fibroblasts, prompting the skin to produce new collagen and elastin. This improves firmness, elasticity, and structural integrity, making them especially effective for softening fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars.
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects → They regulate inflammatory pathways, calming irritation and redness while reducing oxidative stress. This makes polynucleotides helpful not only for post-treatment recovery but also for chronic inflammatory conditions like acne and rosacea.
Deep hydration and barrier support → With strong water-binding properties, polynucleotides help the skin lock in moisture. This restores a plump, dewy glow and strengthens the barrier so the skin can better protect itself against environmental stressors.
In short, PN therapy doesn’t just treat the surface of the skin — it works from within, repairing and strengthening the tissue so the skin becomes healthier and more youthful over time.
What to Expect During Treatment
Polynucleotide (PN) therapy is primarily delivered through microinjections by a certified doctor, using one of several techniques depending on your skin needs:
A multi-needle injector gun
Tiny, single-point injections
Or a cannula technique for precise placement
These methods allow the PN molecules to reach the deeper layers of the skin, where they can stimulate collagen production, improve elasticity, and enhance repair.
A typical programme involves 3–4 sessions spaced a few weeks apart, allowing the skin to gradually rebuild and strengthen. Many patients notice subtle improvements after the first session, with ongoing enhancement over several weeks.
The choice of salmon-derived vs. trout-derived PN is determined during consultation, based on your skin’s specific needs — whether that’s deeper regeneration (like acne scars and laxity) or hydration and surface rejuvenation.
Needleless PN Treatment: A Gentler Alternative
For those who prefer a gentler approach, polynucleotide (PN) skin boosters can also be delivered needle-free using microneedling with Dermapen 4. This method creates controlled microchannels that allow the PN molecules to penetrate the skin without traditional injections. It provides a comfortable alternative while still supporting:
Improved hydration and skin texture
Collagen stimulation and tissue repair
Support for acne scars, pigmentation, and early signs of aging
While needle-free delivery with microneedling may target more superficial layers than traditional injections, it remains highly effective for skin rejuvenation and maintenance, and can be combined with injectable polynucleotide skin boosters for a comprehensive skin regeneration programme.
The Appeal of Polynucleotide Skin Boosters
While Kim Kardashian’s “salmon sperm facial” recently made headlines, polynucleotide (PN) skin boosters are far from new. Many celebrities have long turned to PN therapy for its proven regenerative benefits — notable figures include Jennifer Aston.
We can only guess why Kim chose this treatment, but for someone constantly in the public eye, every detail of their appearance matters. PN skin boosters provide a subtle yet effective way to maintain hydration, elasticity, and a youthful glow, while repairing acne scars and supporting long-term skin health.
By combining science-backed results with gentle, natural rejuvenation, PN skin boosters have become a trusted choice not only for celebrities but for anyone seeking resilient, glowing skin.