BEAUTY

DEMYSTIFYING: PDRN

By Ayis Stephen-Diver, 20 October 2025

There’s a new player in the world of skincare: PDRN. If you haven't heard of it, it’s the mysterious goo being injected into faces in Korea (we’ve all seen those videos), as well as the force behind viral brand MEDICUBE’s hydration icons. But like the snail mucin craze a few years back, is it a new marketing fad or truly innovative tech with the potential to revolutionise skincare? Read below for everything PDRN, from treatments to the products to know and the ingredient's key benefits.

WHAT IS PDRN?

PDRN, AKA Polydeoxyribonucleotide, consists of salmon DNA fragments that can help restore the skin’s natural barrier function. It’s usually derived from salmon sperm cells, which might sound strange, but if it works, we're all for it! These DNA fragments are isolated through a process that promises high compatibility with human skin cells because the salmon DNA is structurally similar to ours.

WHAT DOES PDRN DO FOR THE SKIN?

PDRN's main benefit is that it can help reinforce the skin's barrier and increase its resilience. Other benefits are that it can also help brighten the complexion, support collagen production for skin elasticity and firmness, and has skin-calming properties (which is great for those with sensitive skin). We love this ingredient because you can target so many concerns with it, making PDRN-rich products great for streamlining your am and pm skincare regimens.

IS PRDN BETTER THAN HYALURONIC ACID?

Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Serum, £20

Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Glow Pad, £22

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant – in other words, it retains moisture in your skin by binding to water molecules. PDRN operates on a cellular level to deliver hydration to your skin. This means instead of comparing the two, they’re actually more effective alongside each other. But don’t worry, you don’t need to add hyaluronic acid into your routine if you don’t already use it. Both MEDICUBE and Anua have blended PDRN with hyaluronic acid before, so you can enjoy a dose of hydration and lock it in simultaneously.

HOW DO YOU USE PDRN?

As PDRN comes in serums, toners, moisturisers and even face masks, you can use it exactly how you would your usual products. The most popular method? Serums. MEDICUBE’s pink peptide serum features 1% PDRN and is infused with niacinamide to help give your skin a glow. Use it right after toning (or essence) and seal in all its benefits with a hydrating moisturiser. Another great thing about PDRN – it’s suitable for all skin types!