PDRN Skincare Explained: Why Everyone Is Talking About 'Salmon DNA'
PDRN is the ingredient of the year in Korean skincare. Here is what it is, what it can do and how to add it to your routine.
PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a DNA fragment, often derived from salmon, that has been used in Korean clinics in injectable treatments for skin repair. Skincare brands now put it into serums, toners and creams, where it is valued for supporting a healthy skin barrier, hydration and a plumper, bouncier look.
What PDRN skincare can (and cannot) do
- Can: help skin feel more hydrated and resilient, support recovery after irritation, and give a smoother, glowier look over time.
- Cannot: replicate professional injections. Topical products work at the surface and deliver gradual results.
Best PDRN serums
- Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum 30 ml: PDRN with peptides, a best-seller for glow and bounce.
- Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum 30 ml: PDRN plus hyaluronic acid capsules for hydration.
- Numbuzin No. 2 Rose PDRN Collagen Plumping Serum 30 ml: a plumping serum with rose and collagen.
- EQQUALBERRY Purple PDRN Pore Minimizing Serum 30 ml: PDRN aimed at pores and texture.
PDRN toners, mists and creams
- Toner: Anua PDRN 100 Hyaluronic Acid Booster Toner 250 ml or Axis-Y Triple PDRN Gel Toner 270 ml.
- Mist for AC-dried skin during the day: Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist 100 ml.
- Cream: Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream 55 g or Mixsoon PDRN Collagen Cream 50 ml.
- Eye care: Medicube PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch 60 Pcs.
How to use PDRN
PDRN is gentle and pairs well with almost everything, including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides and vitamin C. Use it morning and evening after toner. If you use retinol, PDRN makes a good companion on the same night because it supports the barrier.
See all PDRN products in our Medicube and Anua ranges, or browse Korean Serums & Ampoules.
Frequently asked questions
Is PDRN skincare safe for sensitive skin?
PDRN is generally well tolerated and is often used to calm and support the barrier. Patch test any new product first if your skin is reactive.
Can I use PDRN with retinol?
Yes. PDRN is a good partner for retinol because it supports hydration and barrier recovery.
Is PDRN vegan?
Most PDRN is derived from salmon, so it is not vegan. Some brands use plant-derived alternatives; check the product description.
