PDRN

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is DNA extracted from salmon. More specifically, it is often extracted from the cells in salmon sperm. Salmon DNA is said to be close to human DNA, lending PDRN to have therapeutic effects for human skin. Those on the cusp of industry trends have undoubtedly heard of salmon facials or salmon sperm for skin care, but this ingredient was previously known for its benefits in health care.

PDRN activates the adenosine A2A receptor, which can help the body manage the inflammatory response and apoptotic process. Activating this receptor can also help repair and heal tissue.

 In clinical practice, PDRN has shown anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcerative, scar preventative, bone regenerative, anti-osteoporotic, anti-allodynic and wound healing benefits. In recent years, however, it has been researched in recent years for its skin care benefit. This is due to K-beauty innovators recognizing its potential for skin care.

PDRN can be injected or applied topically. When it is injected, it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to plump and repair the skin. The result is skin regeneration. We do not inject PDRN, as that method is not currently approved by the FDA.

However, it has also recently been formulated into topical skin care products. Though the PDRN injected in skin care clinics and used in some skin care is derived from salmon, there is PDRN from plant sources available on the market.. When applied topically, PDRN has been shown to reduce pigmentation, increase collagen and elastin and reduce inflammation. The result is firmer and younger-looking skin.

PDRN fillers, known for its collagen building benefits derived from salmon sperm, are commonly used in Korean beauty for its biocompatibility to human DNA. However, it is not yet FDA approved in the U.S. Many surgeons and medical skincare companies, however, are finding ways to innovate solutions infused with this DNA to keep up with Korean beauty trends and provide rejuvenation post-treatment.

When PDRN is used in medical-grade skincare and topicals, it typically adheres to regulations including FD&C Act, the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. PDRN injections would be considered a dermal filler—a class III medical device, however, and while we wait for its approval in injectables. It is actually really great for our skin when infused through other methods.

Though the ingredient is widely used in many Asian countries, the U.S. market often lags behind Asia in adopting skincare innovations.

A recent study [1] surveyed 235 Korean board-certified dermatologists familiar with skin boosters, and 88% replied that they practiced PN injection. The top six indications reported in the survey for PN were fine lines on the cheek followed by infraorbital fine lines, periorbital fine lines, uneven skin texture, dry skin and fine lines on the forehead. 

Its global expansion is already here and as technology advances, PDRN will likely expand beyond the face into full-body skin health, hair restoration and even medical wound care.

How PDRN Compares to Other Fillers

Salmon DNA is for skin rejuvenation, and HA fillers are for volume and contouring; Botox is for wrinkle prevention and treatment.

In comparison to PRP therapy, PDRN is ideal for those seeking hydration, repair and anti-aging benefits without relying on their own blood quality. It is a better option for those who prefer a natural treatment using their own body’s healing factors. 

PRP can be inflammatory whereas PDRN is anti-inflammatory and it works regardless of one’s health or age in comparison to PRP effects varying by blood quality. Some patients may be averse to blood draw, and, therefore, can opt for PDRN.

Salmon DNA injectables are likely to become more prominent in aesthetic medicine due to their natural regenerative properties, safety profile and expanding applications, yet until FDA approves injecting PDRN, we must continue to use them according to the guidelines.

Spermatozoa are one of the cleanest sources for DNA extraction, with minimal protein, peptide and contaminant levels. We source PDRN from wild Norwegian salmon, ensuring purity and effectiveness.”

PDRN in serums promote cell proliferation, tissue regeneration and inflammation reduction, inhibiting melanin production for skin brightening and repair post-treatment recovery.

Topicals, whether PDRN injectables become FDA cleared in the near future or for some time from now, their benefits are still finding a way to replenish skin, especially for those who don’t want to undergo fillers and its side effects.

PDRN is generally safe and well-tolerated, but like any injectable treatment, it has potential side effects, such as mild and temporary redness or swelling, Bruising can occur at injection sites, especially for sensitive skin, and small bumps may form, but subsides within 24–48 hours.

Although PDRN injectables are highly biocompatible, some individuals may develop hypersensitivity, itching, hives or swelling. We may do a patch test for sensitive skin and seafood allergies if an individual did undergo these fillers in the future. Allergies to salmon DNA are rare, however.

Salmon DNA will definitely continue to be in demand as more people seek a natural long-term anti-aging rejuvenation treatment that enhances skin function at the cellular level. PDRN is considered one of the safest injectable treatments due to its natural, non-toxic and highly biocompatible nature.

The PDRN within the product are combined with ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, glutathione and Vitamin C to improve skin tone and texture, giving it a bright, smooth and youthful appearance, McCarthy adds. LúmEnvy was designed to enhance the benefits of PDO threads by boosting skin quality at a cellular level. 

How PDRN Approval Could Benefit Your Aesthetic Goals: A Natural Anti-Aging Solution for Every Age Group

Salmon DNA will definitely continue to be in demand as more people seek a natural long-term anti-aging rejuvenation treatment that enhances skin function at the cellular level.

Salmon DNA seems to have benefits for all age groups.

For individuals in their 20s or 30s investing in preventative treatments rather than waiting for visible aging signs, salmon DNA helps maintain hydration, collagen levels and skin resilience for early intervention.

PDRN can reduce fine lines and early wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and mouth, improving skin texture and slowing down collagen loss–a goal of patients in their 30s and 40s who wish to delay visible signs of aging, she adds.

Ages 40 and up, however, want to address repair, rejuvenation and restoration by simulating skin regeneration in areas of volume loss, increase skin density and firmness, and PDRN helps rejuvenate the skin post-laser or microneedling recovery.

The future of aesthetics is leaning toward natural-looking results, with a greater focus on skin quality as the true indicator of youth. Biostimulators are shaping this future, offering a maintenance approach rather than quick fixes.