PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide, which is a longer way of saying chains of DNA fragments. Most PDRN in skincare is traditionally extracted and purified from salmon, which is where the name comes from and why it sounds more like an ingredient in your dinner than skincare routine.

When looking at the back of a new serum bottle, you’ll usually see find it named as sodium DNA, it’s found amongst other popular K-Beauty ingredients, such as snail mucin or panax ginseng. But don’t let the names fool you, they are the key to glass skin results! Discover all of our K-Beauty favourites in our glossary.

PDRN has a focus on hydration and comfort. It leaves your skin feeling plumper and softer, and with consistent use (it’s worth it, we promise), it could give your skin a more radiant look over time. Warning: this glow will cause compliments and questions on your routine. 

You’ll often find it paired with hydrators like hyaluronic acid or collagen, so your skin stays supple from day to night. If you want support withdark spots on your face, our guide to the best ingredients for hyperpigmentation is always a bright idea. 

Is PDRN the same as the salmon sperm facial?

Does topical PDRN actually work?

Topical PDRN can work, as long as you manage your expectations and use it consistently. Research on PDRN is stronger for injectable treatments than for skincare, so think of topical PDRN as a nourishing addition to your night time routine rather than a shortcut to the clinic results you might have seen on TikTok.

How do you use PDRN in your routine?

PDRN fits in-between your toning and moisturising steps, working best alongside the products that are lighter and more watery. As with most K-Beauty routines, we advise to apply your formulas from the thinnest to the thickest. If you’re still feeling a bit stuck, our K-Beauty Decoded guide walks you through a beginner-friendly routine that is simple and timeless.

After your toner or essence, the next phase of your routine could be with the Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum 30ml. It pairs 10,000ppm salmon PDRN with a 5-peptide complex and niacinamide in a lightweight formula that absorbs quickly, so there’s no waiting around before your moisturiser. Smooth it over your face and gently pat it in, wait until it dries. 

If you’d prefer your serum to do double duty, Laneige Water Bank Aqua Facial - Hydrating Serum for Glow 30ml combines PDRN with a gentle exfoliation for a refined texture and glassy, radiant skin. As it exfoliates, keep it to alternating nights when you’re not using a retinoid. 

For a Sunday evening treat, Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask x1 is enriched with salmon PDRN and hydrolysed collagen, and the sheets turn clear when they’re ready to come off, so you can relax - there's no need to set a timer. 

And for regular top-ups throughout the day, ANUA PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist - Hydrating Face Mist should be your go to. It’s formulated with 2,000ppm of salmon PDRN and supports skin to look youthful. Spritz the mist whenever your face is getting tighter and dry, and it also doubles up as a setting spray to keep your makeup feeling fresh (a lifesaver in an office when you can’t control the heating or air conditioning).