06 Jul Salmon DNA and Dark Circles: Dr Bela’s Take on This Viral Trend
On TikTok and Instagram, before-and-after videos promoting salmon DNA as a cure for dark circles have racked up millions of views. Presented as a treatment to rejuvenate the eye area, these injections are attracting growing curiosity from patients who come to the clinic wanting to know more. Behind this catchy marketing name lies what are actually polynucleotides (PDRN) — DNA fragments extracted from trout or salmon sperm, used in skin biorevitalisation. But how effective are they really on the particularly delicate under-eye area? As an oculoplastic surgeon, I offer a rigorous analysis of this trend: its actual mechanism of action, its level of scientific evidence, and its place among established dark circle treatments. What Salmon DNA Injections Really Are The term "salmon DNA" is an effective marketing shorthand, but it is medically imprecise. The injected product actually consists of polynucleotides (PDRN) — purified DNA fragments derived from the gonads of salmon or trout. These molecules are highly filtered and stripped of any animal proteins that could trigger an allergic reaction. One point deserves clarification, as it sometimes concerns patients: these injections do not alter your human DNA in any way. Polynucleotides act locally within the dermis and do not interact with the genetic...