Rejuran Injections Attract U.S. Travelers to South Korea Amid Pending FDA Approval and Doctor Skepticism

A growing number of American women are traveling to South Korea to receive Rejuran injections, a popular skincare treatment, despite the product's lack of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for injectable use and ongoing skepticism from some American medical professionals. The trend highlights the global appeal of Korea-born beauty products and rituals, often referred to as K-beauty. As stated in a recent tweet from The Wall Street Journal, "South Korea has long been a mecca for skincare enthusiasts, and part of Rejuran’s success is due to a broader interest in Korea-born beauty products and rituals. But some American doctors remain skeptical.

Rejuran is a skin rejuvenation treatment that utilizes polynucleotides (PN), which are DNA fragments derived from salmon. These polynucleotides are designed to stimulate skin regeneration, improve elasticity, and boost collagen production. The treatment is typically administered via microinjections into the skin, aiming to enhance overall skin quality, reduce fine lines, and address issues like enlarged pores and uneven texture.

Originating in South Korea in 2014, Rejuran has gained significant popularity across Asia and is approved for injectable use in over 20 countries, including Canada and South Korea. Its success is deeply intertwined with the global phenomenon of K-beauty, which emphasizes innovative ingredients and multi-step skincare routines. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian have also reportedly endorsed "salmon injections," further fueling interest.

However, Rejuran injections have not yet received U.S. FDA approval. While Rejuran products are available topically in the U.S., their injectable form is not FDA-cleared, meaning it can only be used off-label under a physician's discretion. This regulatory gap is a primary reason American women are undertaking medical tourism to South Korea, where the treatment is readily available and often at a lower cost.

American doctors express caution due to the limited long-term data on Rejuran's effects and potential side effects. Dr. Catherine Chang, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Beverly Hills, noted concerns about "potential side effects such as irritation, rashes, and discoloration," emphasizing that "one-time testimonials are not data." Cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Connie Yang also highlighted the inherent risk of infection with any injection.

Despite these concerns, patients report positive experiences. Brittany Yip, a New York-based marketer, observed improvements in her skin's radiance a week after treatment in South Korea. Trish Bo, a nurse from Toronto, chose South Korea because the cost was nearly half that in Canada, reporting firmer skin and a natural glow within eight days of treatment. PharmaResearch, the South Korean manufacturer, states it has observed only minor skin reactions and no severe adverse side effects since Rejuran's launch. The company has reportedly filed an application for FDA approval for injections in the U.S.