The “salmon sperm facial” explained: microneedling with PDRN and GHK-Cu
What PDRN and GHK-Cu are, what happens during ABK SKIN's Microneedling + GHK-Cu + PDRN appointment, who it suits, and how to prepare.
From the ABK SKIN studio
Charlotte, NC
It has one of the most talked-about nicknames in aesthetics: the salmon sperm facial. Behind the headline is a serious treatment. At ABK SKIN it is booked as Microneedling + GHK-Cu + PDRN, one of four Enhanced Microneedling options on the menu, and Katrina created it to pair two ingredients she calls some of the most powerful regenerative ingredients in aesthetics right now.
Why "salmon sperm"?
PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide. It is made from DNA fragments, and the DNA used in skincare is commonly sourced from salmon. That is where the nickname comes from. It sounds dramatic, but in a treatment room it is simply a professional serum.
The two key ingredients
ABK SKIN uses BioSkin NEXGen PDRN+, which combines several ingredients. The two headline actives are:
- PDRN. Helps support the skin's natural repair and renewal processes, with the aim of improving skin quality, texture and radiance.
- GHK-Cu (copper peptide). A peptide that supports collagen and elastin, the proteins behind firmness and elasticity.
Katrina's Instagram breakdown of the formula also lists spermidine for skin renewal and barrier function, amino acids such as arginine to help skin recover, and hyaluronic acid for deep hydration that helps skin look plumper and smoother.
As ABK SKIN pointed out, peptides were changing skin long before they started trending. What is new is pairing them with PDRN and delivering them through microneedling.
Why pair it with microneedling?
Microneedling creates tiny, controlled channels in the skin. That prompts the skin's own renewal process, and it also allows professional serums applied during treatment to reach further than they would sitting on the surface. In this appointment, NEXGen PDRN+ is the serum delivered through those channels.
What the appointment includes
Based on Katrina's own description, the treatment includes:
- Painless extractions using the HydraFacial machine.
- Lymphatic drainage using the HydraFacial machine.
- Microneedling with NEXGen PDRN+ (PDRN and GHK-Cu).
- Treatment of the face, neck and décolleté.
The appointment is about ninety minutes and is listed at $550 in the ABK SKIN booking menu.
Who it is chosen for
ABK SKIN recommends this option for goals around:
- Texture, including rough or uneven-looking skin.
- Firmness, for skin that is starting to look less bouncy.
- Tone, for a more even-looking complexion.
- Overall skin quality, when you want skin that simply looks healthier.
It is a good next step for clients already considering microneedling who want a targeted serum. If you are pregnant, have active breakouts or infection in the area, a skin condition or a medical concern, raise it at booking. Your aesthetician may recommend a different approach or ask you to check with your doctor first.
Instant and long-term
Katrina designed this facial to deliver both instant and long-term results. Many clients notice a fresh, hydrated look soon after the extractions, drainage and serums. The deeper changes from microneedling build gradually as your skin renews over the following weeks, which is why microneedling is usually planned as a series. Results vary from person to person.
Downtime and aftercare
Redness after microneedling is common. Ask at your consultation how long to allow before an event, and follow the written aftercare you are given. A few general principles:
- Keep it simple for the first few days. Gentle cleansing, hydration and sun protection.
- Skip actives until you are told otherwise. That includes retinoids, acids and scrubs.
- Choose soothing products. Hydrinity's Restorative Post Procedure Kit pairs Hyacyn Active spray with Restorative HA Serum and is designed for after professional treatments.
The other Enhanced Microneedling options
All four options share the same microneedling base and differ in the serum used. Each is about ninety minutes and $550:
| Option | Chosen for |
|---|---|
| Microneedling + GHK-Cu + PDRN | Texture, firmness, tone and overall skin quality |
| Microneedling + Mesotherapy Firming | Early loss of firmness, fine lines, texture and enlarged pores |
| Microneedling + Radiance Mesotherapy | Dullness, uneven tone, dehydration and texture |
| Microneedling + Hydrate Mesotherapy | Skin that feels dehydrated, dull or tight |
Standard Microneedling is also available at $395.
Not sure which one to book?
Book a Skin Consultation, or book standard Microneedling and ask about upgrading. Your aesthetician will look at your skin and goals and recommend the option that fits.
Frequently asked questions
Is it really made from salmon sperm?
PDRN is made from DNA fragments, which in skincare are commonly salmon-derived. That is where the nickname comes from.
Does microneedling hurt?
Comfort varies from person to person. Ask at booking how your skin will be prepared and what to expect.
How many sessions will I need?
Microneedling is usually planned as a series. Your aesthetician will recommend a plan for your skin and goals.
Can I wear makeup afterwards?
Follow the written aftercare you are given. Many providers recommend keeping skin clean and bare for a short period after microneedling.
Is it included in a membership?
Microneedling is named as a six-month anniversary option for ABK SKIN CLUB members. Check the membership agreement for the qualifying treatments.
Questions about your skin?
Email abkskinn@gmail.com or bring them to your next appointment.
