The semen facial is the latest health and wellness craze, but is it actually good for your skin?

Anecdotal data suggesting that the nutrients in semen may support skin health is the main source of the theory that semen may be good for skin health. Picture: Pexels

Anecdotal data suggesting that the nutrients in semen may support skin health is the main source of the theory that semen may be good for skin health. Picture: Pexels

Published Oct 31, 2022

Share

There isn't much scientific proof, despite some anecdotal data, that semen may have skin-benefiting properties.

Although semen may contain substances that are good for the skin, their small amounts are unlikely to have any effect.

Additionally, there is a chance of an allergic reaction and STDs when eating or applying semen to the skin.

Anecdotal data suggesting that the nutrients in semen may support skin health is the main source of the theory that semen may be good for skin health.

Despite the fact that semen contains nutrients that may be good for the skin, there isn’t any proof to suggest that consuming it or using it topically can help someone’s skin look and feel better.

Protein, zinc, magnesium, and urea are listed as some (but not all) of the nutrients present in semen in an older review examining its characteristics.

Semen, according to some, may aid in the treatment and improvement of acne. This is based on the notion that spermine, an organic substance present in semen, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities. However, there is no solid scientific evidence in favour of using semen as an acne cure.

The odour of semen is brought on by spermidine, a substance found in semen. According to a study from 2021, spermidine, which is released by streptococcus bacteria, can aid in skin healing by promoting the synthesis of collagen.

Spermidine in sperm is probably not enough to make skin look younger. However, several foods, like citrus fruits and green peppers, have high spermidine concentrations.

Potential dangers

There are several possible hazards associated with applying semen to the skin. Some of them could be:

STDs

A person who touches their skin with semen runs the risk of contracting a STD like chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

For instance, if a person gets semen in their eye, they could get gonorrhoea or chlamydia. Furthermore, gonorrhoea can affect the skin and result in a rash.

Allergic response

After being exposed to semen, a person could have an allergic reaction. The following signs and symptoms could be present in someone who is allergic to semen: skin irritation, inflammation, urticaria (hives) and antihyperglycemic shock

Itchy skin

The use of semen on the skin carries the same risk of causing skin irritation as using any other product on the skin.

The fluid that the penis secretes after ejaculation is called semen. Although semen contains nutrients and chemicals that may be beneficial to skin, these are present in small amounts. Therefore, it is doubtful that topical application or ingestion will result in any benefits for the skin or hair.

Read the latest issue of IOL Health digital magazine here.

Related Topics:

viralnutritionsafety