There’s a fine line between a viral skincare trend and a credible innovation, and the so-called “salmon sperm facial” has managed to straddle both. Propelled by celebrity endorsements and endless TikTok videos, it sounds more like a gimmick than a genuine skincare breakthrough, but never one to be left behind, I jumped on the bandwagon to see what all the fuss was about.
So I headed to VIVA Skin Clinics in Fitzrovia to experience the VIVA X PDRN facial for myself, and found out that the headline-grabbing name is a serious move towards regenerative aesthetics.
I was among the first in my circle to try the treatment, and while I’d heard plenty about the science behind salmon-derived polynucleotides (PDRN), I was curious to see whether the experience lived up to the hype. What I discovered was less of a quick-fix facial and more of a carefully considered treatment designed to support long-term skin health.
The appointment lasted around an hour, and from the moment I arrived it felt far more personalised than a typical facial. After an in-depth consultation, my practitioner explained how PDRN works to support the skin’s natural repair processes, stimulate collagen production and improve elasticity over time – rather than an instant fix. Instead of overwhelming me with technical jargon, she broke down the science in a way that felt informative and reassuring, making it clear that this wasn’t about chasing instant results but investing in healthier skin.
The facial itself was wonderfully relaxing. It began with a thorough cleanse and gentle exfoliation before the PDRN treatment was applied. There was a slight prickling sensation as the active ingredients got to work, but nothing uncomfortable -in fact, it was oddly satisfying knowing the treatment was doing something beneath the surface. Throughout the hour, every step was carried out with precision and care, and my practitioner checked in regularly, explaining exactly what each stage was doing and ensuring I was comfortable. The treatment room was calm and peaceful, making it surprisingly easy to switch off completely.
When it was over, I didn’t look drastically different, and that’s exactly the point. This isn’t the sort of facial that promises an overnight transformation or leaves you looking artificially “done”. Instead, it’s designed to deliver cumulative improvements over time by encouraging your skin to function at its best.
That said, there was an immediate healthy glow when I looked in the mirror afterwards. My complexion appeared fresher, calmer and noticeably more hydrated. Over the following days, those subtle improvements became more obvious. My skin felt softer and plumper, the texture looked smoother, and there was an overall luminosity that didn’t feel like makeup or skincare sitting on the surface; it simply looked healthier. I also noticed my makeup applied more evenly, and I found myself reaching for less of it.
The treatment uses VIVA X PDRN, a Korean-developed formula created by the UK-based aesthetics group, combining 10,000ppm salmon-derived polynucleotides with hydrating hyaluronic acid and barrier-supporting niacinamide. The philosophy behind it reflects where advanced skincare is heading: away from dramatic interventions and towards regenerative treatments that strengthen skin quality from within.
Even the packaging reflects that clinical approach. The serum comes in a precision ampoule with a syringe-style applicator, giving it the feel of a professional treatment adapted for at-home use without being intimidating or impractical.
What also impressed me was the atmosphere at VIVA Fitzrovia. The team were warm, knowledgeable and refreshingly honest about what to expect. There was no pressure to book additional treatments or buy products -just realistic advice about aftercare and how results develop with consistency.
At £39.99 for the VIVA X PDRN serum, it sits at an accessible price point for skincare rooted in professional-grade regenerative technology. Like the facial itself, it isn’t about chasing overnight miracles but supporting long-term skin health. It may be one of the most talked-about skincare launches of the year, but after experiencing the treatment firsthand, it feels grounded in genuine innovation rather than social media hype—and that’s what ultimately won me over.
Book in for a profession PRDN facial at a VIVA Clinic here
Buy the product here