In recent years, the world of skincare has seen some surprising trends, especially on social media. Many people are talking about unusual beauty treatments that might make you question their effectiveness. Some of these treatments are quite strange, such as using salmon sperm or bird droppings. These unconventional methods are part of a larger quest for perfect skin, but it’s important to understand the science behind them—or the lack of it—before trying them out.
Let’s begin with the surprising use of salmon sperm. At a clinic called You & I in Seoul, South Korea, one of the most popular requests is for injections of tiny pieces of DNA taken from salmon sperm. You might be asking yourself, "Why would anyone want to do this?" According to Kyu-Ho Yi, an aesthetic doctor at the clinic, the goal is not to fill out the skin like traditional fillers. Instead, they focus on a process called "biostimulation." This means they aim to create a healthier environment for the skin, helping it to recover and rejuvenate.
This unusual treatment has its roots in regenerative medicine and wound healing. Interestingly, DNA fragments from fish have been studied for their potential to help repair tissue, especially for people with facial scars from injuries. Although scientific research on this specific treatment is still developing, some studies suggest that these salmon sperm-derived DNA fragments could help reduce fine lines and improve skin hydration and texture. Joshua Zeichner, a dermatology professor at Mount Sinai Hospital in the U.S., mentions that while it is unclear how this trend started, it is becoming more popular, especially with celebrities like Charli XCX and Jennifer Aniston promoting it.
But that’s not all! Another strange practice in skincare involves using bird droppings. Yes, you read that correctly—bird poop! This treatment, known as the "Geisha Facial," involves cleaning nightingale droppings with ultraviolet light, mixing them with exfoliants and brightening agents, and then applying this mixture as a face mask. This practice has been around for centuries in Japan, where it was first discovered that bird droppings could effectively remove dye from fabrics. Over time, Japanese entertainers began using it to brighten their skin and remove heavy makeup.
Before you think about collecting bird droppings from the park, let’s clarify: the products used in these facials are purified and modified to be safe. The droppings contain high levels of urea, a compound known for softening the skin, as well as amino acids that can hydrate and brighten it. However, Joshua Zeichner warns against trying to do this yourself—picking up bird poop from the street is definitely not a good idea!
As we explore more unusual skincare trends, we come across something called menstrual masking. This involves using menstrual blood as a face mask. While a study from 2018 suggested that plasma from menstrual fluid might help with wound healing, dermatology researcher Beibei Du-Harpur from King’s College London is skeptical. She believes that no respected doctor would support such a practice, viewing it as a TikTok trend aimed at shock value and gaining views.
On a more scientifically supported note, we have the "Vampire Facial," which uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. This procedure takes a person’s own blood, separates it using a centrifuge to concentrate growth factors, and then injects it back into the skin using tiny needles. The idea is to use the body’s own healing abilities, and while the evidence for its effectiveness varies, some studies suggest it may improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles, especially in older people.
While these unconventional treatments may seem bizarre, they also reflect a larger trend in skincare. The future of beauty treatments may not just be about strange rituals but also about scientifically backed innovations. For example, researchers are looking into new ways to enhance collagen supplements, which could lead to significant improvements in skin texture and hydration. A recent study indicated that certain amino acid supplements could not only improve skin health but also reduce biological age, as shown by DNA tests on saliva samples.
As we navigate this ever-changing world of skincare, it’s important to consider whether these trendy treatments really provide more benefits than traditional skincare products that have been proven effective over time. Joshua Zeichner emphasizes the importance of maintaining a consistent skincare routine that includes sun protection during the day and hydration and repair at night. Instead of spending a lot of money on a $500 facial for a temporary glow, he suggests sticking to a reliable routine that includes sunscreen, moisturizers, and collagen-boosting ingredients like retinol.
In conclusion, while the appeal of strange beauty treatments may be strong, it is important to approach them carefully. The combination of ancient practices and modern science offers an interesting view into the skincare world, but as with any trend, safety and effectiveness should come first. So, the next time you hear about a skincare fad that seems too strange to be true, take a moment to think: Is it really worth the hype, or is it just another fleeting trend in the constantly changing beauty industry?