Salmon Sperm Injections: What They Are, How They Work, Cost, Side Effects and Results

Purpose: Skin rejuvenation through regeneration that improves hydration, texture, firmness, fine lines, dark circles and skin quality. Not a volumiser.

Areas treated: Face, under-eye area, neck, décolletage, hands. Particularly effective in areas with thin or crepey skin.

Procedure: A series of fine needle injections placed across the treatment area. Usually performed using 30 gauge needles or a blunt-tipped cannula. Takes 20 to 40 minutes.

Sessions: A course of 2 to 4 sessions is recommended for optimal results, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. Maintenance every 6 to 9 months.

Safety: Considered safe and highly biocompatible with human tissue. CE-marked products are used by reputable UK clinics. Not suitable for fish allergy sufferers, vegetarians, vegans, pregnant and breastfeeding patients.

Side effects: Temporary swelling, redness and bruising at injection sites are common and resolve within 24 to 72 hours.

Not a filler: Polynucleotides do not add volume, change facial structure or produce immediate visible change. They improve skin quality progressively over weeks.

Treatment type: Regenerative injectable biostimulator (polynucleotide injections)

Common concerns treated: Fine lines, dull skin, dark circles, crepey skin, skin laxity, acne scarring, dehydrated skin, under-eye skin quality

Procedure length: Typically 20 to 40 minutes depending on treatment area

Anaesthetic: Topical numbing cream applied before treatment

Recovery time: Minimal. Mild swelling and redness typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours

Results visible: 3 to 6 weeks after starting treatment, continuing to develop over 2 to 3 months

Sessions recommended: Typically 2 to 4 sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, followed by maintenance every 6 to 9 months

Salmon sperm injections is the popular name for polynucleotide injections, a medical injectable treatment that has been used in clinical practice across Europe and Asia for over two decades. The treatment uses highly purified DNA fragments derived from the genetic material of salmon or trout. These DNA fragments, known as polynucleotides, are injected into the skin where they activate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, and stimulate the skin’s natural regenerative processes.

The name is accurate in origin but misleading in implication. The treatment does not involve injecting raw fish material into the skin. The process begins with salmon genetic material which then undergoes extensive purification. Proteins, cellular material and all biological components are removed until only the purified DNA chains remain. The final product is a sterile, clear solution that is biocompatible with human tissue.

Unlike dermal fillers which add volume, or Botox which relaxes muscle movement, polynucleotide injections work by improving the biological quality of the skin itself. Results are gradual, building over weeks and months as the skin’s own repair mechanisms respond to the treatment.

For a full guide to polynucleotide treatment including how it works, brand comparison and clinic finder, read our polynucleotide treatment guide.

The use of salmon or trout DNA is deliberate. There are specific scientific reasons why fish-derived polynucleotides are used in aesthetic medicine.

Molecular similarity to human DNA: Salmon DNA shares a high degree of structural similarity with human DNA. This makes it highly biocompatible as the human body does not recognise it as a foreign substance and does not trigger a significant immune response.

Ease of extraction and sustainability: Salmon sperm is produced in large quantities as a byproduct of the fish processing industry. It is one of the most accessible and abundant sources of high quality DNA for medical use.

High purity achievable: The purification technology for salmon-derived polynucleotides is well established. Manufacturers can reliably remove all proteins, cellular material and potential allergens to produce a consistent, clinical-grade product.

Proven clinical track record: Polynucleotide injections derived from salmon have been used in clinical practice in Italy, South Korea and across Europe since the early 2000s. The treatment has a longer evidence base than many newer injectable treatments.

The biological source is salmon or trout depending on the specific product. The DNA is extracted, purified and processed in controlled pharmaceutical manufacturing conditions. No live salmon are involved in the procedure itself.

Salmon sperm injections can address a wide range of skin quality concerns. They are most effective for patients whose primary concern is the quality, texture and hydration of their skin rather than volume loss or structural change.

Common concerns treated with salmon sperm injections:

• Fine lines and early wrinkles across the face, neck and around the eyes
• Dull, dehydrated or tired-looking skin that lacks radiance
• Crepey or thinning skin on the face, neck and décolletage
• Dark circles related to thin, poor-quality skin in the under-eye area
• Mild skin laxity and loss of elasticity
• Acne scarring and uneven skin texture
• Sun-damaged skin with uneven tone and roughness
• Sensitive or rosacea-prone skin where gentle regenerative treatment is preferred
• General skin quality maintenance and prevention from the mid-twenties onwards

The most important distinction for patients to understand is that salmon sperm injections and dermal fillers are fundamentally different treatments with different purposes.

Many practitioners use both treatments together for patients who have both skin quality concerns and volume loss. The treatments are complementary rather than competing.

The under-eye area is the most popular treatment zone for salmon sperm injections. The skin in this area is the thinnest on the face and responds particularly well to polynucleotide treatment because the treatment improves skin quality from within rather than adding volume.

Salmon sperm injections under the eyes are effective for dark circles caused by thin, poor quality skin, fine lines and crepey texture. They are not effective for structural hollowing of the tear trough, that requires tear trough filler.

For a full guide specifically covering polynucleotide treatment for the under-eye area, including a comparison table with tear trough filler and specific products used, read our dedicated polynucleotides under eyes guide.

Salmon sperm injections gained mainstream attention partly through celebrity association. Jennifer Aniston and Kim Kardashian have both been publicly linked to polynucleotide treatments. The BBC covered the treatment in November 2025, describing it as an area of growing clinical interest.

The celebrity connection has brought a wider patient audience to regenerative aesthetics. It has also brought misunderstanding. The treatment celebrities are talking about is exactly the same one offered at verified clinics across the UK. There is no exclusive or upgraded version. It is the same product, the same injection process and the same clinical outcome.

Celebrity coverage is useful for raising awareness, not for making a treatment decision. The questions worth asking are whether the treatment is right for your specific skin concerns and whether a qualified practitioner has assessed whether you are a suitable candidate.

Salmon sperm injections in the UK typically cost between £250 and £600 per session. London clinics are generally at the higher end of this range, with premium London practitioners sometimes charging £400 to £650 per session. Regional clinics in Manchester and Birmingham typically charge £250 to £350 per session.

Key cost factors and pricing breakdown:

Location and provider: Premium London clinics charge significantly more than regional clinics. Harley Street and Mayfair practitioners are typically at the upper end of the London range.

Treatment course: Most clinics recommend and price a course of 3 sessions. A course package typically costs between £700 and £1,200 for a mid-range UK clinic and may represent better value than booking sessions individually.

Area treated: Under-eye treatment alone costs less than a full-face treatment. Full face and neck combined costs more than face alone. Ask for a treatment plan and pricing at consultation.

Product used: CE-marked medical-grade products from established manufacturers cost more than unlicensed alternatives. Unusually low pricing may reflect a compromise on product quality.

Maintenance: Results last 6 to 9 months, after which maintenance sessions at the single-session rate are typically recommended to sustain improvement.

When comparing prices, consider both cost and practitioner qualifications. Salmon sperm injections are a medical injectable procedure that should only be performed by a trained and qualified practitioner. Unusually low prices can reflect shortcuts in clinical standards rather than good value.

Before the procedure: A topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area and left for 20 to 30 minutes. Before treatment begins, your practitioner must conduct a consultation reviewing your medical history, allergy history (fish and seafood allergy is an absolute contraindication), medication history (blood thinners must be discussed) and treatment goals. A fish allergy screen is non-negotiable before any polynucleotide treatment.

During the procedure: The polynucleotide solution is injected across the treatment area using fine needles or a blunt-tipped cannula. Multiple small injection points are placed in a grid or fan pattern. Most patients experience mild discomfort described as a light pricking or pressure sensation. Treatment takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on the area.

Immediately after treatment: Small raised bumps or wheals at injection sites are normal and expected as they indicate the product has been correctly placed. These flatten within hours. Redness and mild swelling are common on the day of treatment. Most patients can return to work and normal activities the following day.

Salmon sperm injections deliver gradual, progressive results rather than immediate dramatic change. The improvements are driven by the skin’s own biological response to the treatment, which is why they develop over weeks rather than days.

Immediately after treatment, some patients notice temporary plumpness around treated areas due to mild swelling. This typically resolves within 12 hours and should not be mistaken for the treatment’s actual results, which develop gradually over weeks.

Before treatment, skin typically appears dull, dehydrated, or crepey. Fine lines are visible at rest. Dark circles under the eyes appear regardless of sleep quality. Skin texture feels rough or uneven.

After a completed course, most patients report improved skin hydration and a visible reduction in dullness from the second session. Significant improvement in skin texture, fine lines and dark circles typically becomes visible from 3 to 6 weeks, with continued improvement over 2 to 3 months as new collagen and elastin develop.

For a full breakdown of what results look like across all treatment areas and a week-by-week timeline, read our polynucleotides before and after guide.

Salmon sperm injections are considered safe when performed by a trained medical practitioner using CE-marked products. The side effect profile is generally considered lower than many other injectable treatments because the treatment does not add volume or alter facial structure, and the purified DNA fragments are highly biocompatible with human tissue.

Common temporary side effects (resolve within 24 to 72 hours):

• Redness and swelling at injection sites. Normal inflammatory response to the injection
• Bruising occurs in approximately 15% of patients, typically resolving within 48 to 72 hours
• Small raised bumps or wheals at injection sites. Expected and indicate correct product placement, flatten within hours
• Mild tenderness at injection sites
• Temporary localised sensitivity as the skin adjusts

Rare and more serious risks:

• Allergic reaction particularly in patients with fish or seafood sensitivity. This is why allergy history must be taken before every treatment session
• Persistent swelling or inflammation. Some cases report prolonged swelling potentially lasting weeks if adverse reactions occur. Contact your practitioner promptly if swelling persists beyond 5 days
• Infection at injection sites are rare when proper aftercare is followed and treatment is performed in a clinical environment with sterile technique
• Nodules or granulomas. Long-term skin irregularities are rare but have been reported. More common with incorrect injection technique or inappropriate product choice
• Flare-ups in patients with chronic inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea or eczema. Disclose these at consultation before proceeding, as the injection process may temporarily aggravate existing inflammation

Risk management:

The most important factor in reducing risk is practitioner selection. Many adverse reactions to polynucleotide treatment are linked to incorrect injection technique or undertrained practitioners. Choosing a practitioner with specific training and experience in polynucleotide injections, in a properly equipped clinical environment, significantly reduces the risk of complications.

Always disclose all allergies, medications and medical conditions before treatment. Do not have treatment from a practitioner who does not conduct a proper pre-treatment consultation including allergy screening.

Salmon sperm injections are not appropriate for everyone. The following patients should not have this treatment:

• Fish or seafood allergy: The DNA is derived from salmon and although the purification process removes proteins, the treatment is absolutely contraindicated for anyone with a known fish or seafood allergy
• Vegetarians and vegans: The treatment uses fish-derived ingredients and is not suitable for those who avoid animal products on ethical grounds
• Pregnant or breastfeeding: The treatment is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Autoimmune conditions: The treatment stimulates immune-mediated repair processes and should be discussed carefully with a doctor before proceeding
• Active skin infections or inflammation: Treatment should not be performed over active infection or inflamed skin
• Blood-thinning medications or supplements: Including prescribed anticoagulants, ibuprofen, aspirin, high-dose omega-3 and ginseng. Discuss with your practitioner before treatment

Salmon sperm injections are a medical injectable procedure. They should only be performed by a trained and qualified practitioner in a proper clinical environment.

When choosing a clinic for salmon sperm injections, consider:

• The practitioner’s specific training and experience in polynucleotide treatment
• Whether the clinic uses CE-marked products and can confirm the specific product being used
• Whether a proper pre-treatment consultation is conducted including allergy screening and medical history review
• Before and after photos from real patients treated at the clinic for similar concerns
• Check statutory registration: General Medical Council (GMC) for doctor-led clinics, General Dental Council (GDC) for dentist-led clinics, Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for nurse-led clinics
• Professional membership of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) for doctor and dentist-led clinics or the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN) for nurse-led clinics
• Voluntary Care Quality Commission (CQC) registration – not mandatory for aesthetic clinics but demonstrates an exceptionally high level of clinical governance where held
• Accreditation with Save Face, the UK’s only government-approved aesthetics register, or the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP)

Every clinic listed on The Aesthetic Standard has been reviewed against these criteria before being listed. We verify statutory registration, professional body membership and CQC registration where held. We review independent patient feedback across Google, Trustpilot and RealSelf and speak directly with the lead practitioner at every clinic. Browse our verified listings across London, Manchester and Birmingham.

Before your consultation, read our list of questions to ask at your polynucleotide consultation for guidance on what to ask any aesthetic practitioner about injectable treatments.

The Aesthetic Standard has reviewed and verified polynucleotide clinics across major UK cities.

• Polynucleotide Clinics in London
• Polynucleotide Clinics in Manchester
• Polynucleotide Clinics in Birmingham

For the full polynucleotide treatment guide including how it works, product comparison and costs, read our polynucleotide treatment guide. Browse our treatments guide or clinic directory to find verified practitioners across the UK.