Salmon sperm, silk threads, and exosomes—when it comes to anti-aging aesthetic medicine, innovations are plentiful. But do they really live up to the hype? Could they even outshine the classic Botox? Let’s take a closer look.
While today’s beauty landscape champions self-acceptance and natural aesthetics, aesthetic medicine is far from fading into obscurity. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), the total number of surgical and non-surgical procedures increased by 3.4% in 2023, reaching 34.9 million worldwide. Among the most popular treatments are Botox and hyaluronic acid injections, laser hair removal, non-surgical skin tightening, and non-invasive fat reduction.
Facial rejuvenation remains a top priority, but the trend is shifting towards more natural-looking enhancements, steering away from overly frozen results. The focus is now on gentler, less invasive methods. This year, three procedures, in particular, are generating buzz: salmon sperm injections, Korean silk thread lifts, and exosome therapy.
Salmon sperm injections
Celebrity-approved and social media’s latest obsession, salmon sperm injections are making waves in the beauty world. Though this Korean technique has existed since 2015, it recently made a comeback thanks to Jennifer Aniston and Kim Kardashian. In July, the reality star revealed on her show that she had tried the treatment. Then, in October 2024, Aniston confirmed on Jimmy Kimmel Live that she, too, had undergone the procedure—both praising its anti-aging effects.
Salmon sperm is said to be rich in polynucleotides, small fragments of DNA and RNA. “When injected into the skin, they stimulate the production of new blood vessels, collagen, and keratinocytes (which make up 90% of the epidermis), promoting cellular regeneration,” explains Dr. Richard Westreich, a New York-based plastic surgeon, in an interview with The Guardian. Of course, it’s not raw sperm but purified extracts. The result? Plumper, more hydrated, and visibly healthier skin.
On paper, it sounds like the ultimate anti-aging solution. However, scientific studies on its efficacy are mixed. While some report “significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration,” others find the benefits minimal, if not negligible. As for side effects, opinions are divided. Some experts claim the treatment is safe when administered by professionals, while others report redness, bruising, or post-injection swelling.
Beyond its questionable effectiveness, this method raises environmental and ethical concerns. With salmon already at risk due to overfishing, PETA has denounced the extraction process as extremely painful for the fish. Bottom line? This trend is a hard pass.
@vakitamedia S’injecter du sperme de saumon dans le visage, ça vous paraît fou non ? C’est pourtant la nouvelle mode en chirurgie esthétique. Une tendance qui (une fois encore) exploite les animaux.
Korean Silk Thread Lift
As the name suggests, this aesthetic treatment also hails from Korea. But unlike traditional lifts, it smooths wrinkles and signs of aging without needles. Known as the “hiko” lift, it involves infusing silk protein threads, soaked in a serum containing hyaluronic acid and marine collagen, into facial creases. The skin absorbs them instantly, delivering an immediate tightening effect.
This revolutionary approach offers several advantages. It’s non-invasive, completely painless, free from side effects, and suitable for all skin types. Silk proteins are natural and biocompatible with the epidermis.
The real wow factor? Results are visible instantly—wrinkles are filled, and skin appears firmer. Even better, just one session per year is enough to maintain long-lasting youthful effects. Still skeptical? A quick search for before-and-after photos on social media speaks for itself. While this treatment is still relatively rare in Morocco, it’s only a matter of time before it becomes widely available in aesthetic clinics. In France, several beauty institutes already offer the hiko lift.
Exosome Therapy
Here’s another game-changing innovation—one that doesn’t involve injections. Meet exosome therapy. While still relatively unknown in France and Morocco, this treatment is booming in South Korea and the U.S., with a certain celebrity leading the charge… Yes, Kim Kardashian (again!). Exosomes are naturally occurring components in the body that facilitate cellular communication.
These nano-vesicles (tiny sacs) transport proteins, lipids, growth factors, minerals, and vitamins, acting as messengers that promote cellular renewal. However, as we age, the number of healthy cells declines, and their communication weakens.
Exosome therapy involves applying these nano-vesicles directly to the skin to kickstart cellular regeneration. The practitioner then uses microneedling to create micro-channels, allowing the exosome-rich serum to penetrate deeply. This stimulates collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production while strengthening the skin barrier.
The results? Tightened pores, smoothed wrinkles, a more radiant complexion, faded scars, and firmer skin. Unlike Botox, exosomes work on the entire skin surface for a holistic anti-aging effect. This method can also be used on the scalp to boost hair growth.
For lasting results, three to five sessions spaced 15 days apart are recommended, with maintenance every six months. Derived from plants, exosomes are suitable for all skin types and have no contraindications. The only potential side effect? Mild redness post-treatment. They can even be used preventatively from the age of 30. Notably, Exomide-brand exosomes have recently entered the Moroccan market and are now available through select aesthetic doctors and dermatologists.
Not ready to take the plunge? You can start with at-home skincare. Brands like Skin Diligent and Dr. Barbara Sturm now offer serums and creams enriched with plant-based exosomes—though their concentrations are significantly lower than in professional treatments.
Bonus: The Notox Trend
For those reluctant to dive into aesthetic medicine, there’s another anti-aging trend making waves: Notox—a blend of “no” and “Botox.” This approach relies on skincare and techniques that naturally stimulate cellular regeneration. Think: hyaluronic acid-, peptide-, vitamin C-, and bakuchiol-enriched cosmetics, LED light therapy, and a daily facial massage routine. Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective.
Picture (c) : Vogue
