Risks from a non-FDA-approved injection can include blood clots, nodules, allergic response, and inflammatory reactions, adds Dr. Levine. “Injecting a product that has not been run through that process exposes the patient and practitioner to tremendous risk,” emphasizes Dr. Shamban. Even if the product gets approved in the future (or if you travel to get the treatment in a country where it’s legal), there will be risks to consider. Because it’s derived from fish, salmon DNA sounds like a “natural” treatment, which can imply safety to some, but salmon-based treatments can cause irritation, allergic reactions, and breakouts, says Dr. Gohara.
Microneedling followed by topical, FDA-approved PDRN also comes with some risks, including introducing bacteria or triggering inflammation. “Imagine giving your skin tiny paper cuts—now imagine rubbing fish protein into those cuts,” Dr. Gohara explains. “That’s why sterility, proper technique, and post-treatment care are non-negotiable.”
Red flags abound in the aesthetics world; some of the biggest ones to look out for when seeking a safe salmon DNA treatment include vague ingredient lists, pressure to act fast with “limited time” deals, and treatments offered in non-medical settings, Dr. Gohara says. “Legit procedures will always be clear about what’s in the product, how it’s applied, and whether it’s FDA approved.”
Doctors do think there’s potential for more FDA-approved salmon treatments in the future. “Salmon injections are used in other countries with good results in certain cases. I think they are best when combined with other regenerative products,” says Dr. Levine. If they were to be approved for injection purposes in the United States, she’d like to see “differences in formulations of the different companies, as well as decide where I was comfortable injecting it on the face,” and, of course, she wants proof the injections would provide “substantial results.”
Word of mouth and social media can be really persuasive; if you’re seeing tons of videos of people with glowing, radiant skin saying they owe it all to salmon sperm, it’s natural to want to try it for yourself. But for every video praising the service, there are more from board-certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons saying to hold off and wait for more research along with the FDA’s blessing. “If you’re booking a service based on a TikTok trend, take a breath and ask, ‘Who’s performing this? What’s the product? Is it approved for this use?’” Dr. Gohara says. “When in doubt, check with a board-certified dermatologist. Your face is not the place for guesswork.”
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