PDRN (“salmon DNA”)

PDRN is short for polydeoxyribonucleotide, a purified mix of DNA fragments. Dermatology Times explains that it has traditionally come from salmon or trout sperm, though newer versions are made from plants or by fermentation. It was first used in medical settings to help repair damaged tissue before moving into skincare, and Hwahae notes that ingredient lists often call it "Sodium DNA."

Hwahae Global, a K-beauty site for overseas shoppers, says the PDRN wave is spreading from serums to creams. Its October report, based on product views from overseas visitors, shows a PDRN firming cream up 1,110%; from Oct 6 it took the overall #1 spot from a long-running ceramide cream and held it on 6 of 7 days in the second week of October. PDRN pads from Skinfood and medicube also made the top 40 of Olive Young's weekly pad ranking (Sep 28–Oct 4).

Lady Kyunghyang reports that PDRN is usually applied at the essence step after cleansing. Hwahae suggests a serum or ampoule as the easiest start, adding a hyaluronic acid or ceramide moisturizer if it feels drying. Both recommend a patch test first, and Lady Kyunghyang advises care when using it with retinol or exfoliating ingredients.

If you have a fish or seafood allergy, Hwahae says to check the label for PDRN or Sodium DNA. Dermatology Times notes that the strongest evidence for PDRN comes from injections; for creams and serums, it says results more likely come from other ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides, and that expensive ampoules may be unnecessary.