What is PDRN?

Polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), or the more commonly known term, Salmon Sperm, are biochemical cues that deliver regenerative signals to the skin. As your skin absorbs these DNA/RNA building blocks, they trigger cellular processes that promote turnover, enhance radiance, and subtly thicken the skin over time. It’s a powerhouse ingredient that helps your skin behave like its younger, healthier self, which is why we often use it post-procedure or in aging skin that’s lost some of its resilience. 

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How does PDRN affect the skin?

PDRN works on a cellular level by stimulating the skin’s natural healing and regeneration processes. It activates receptors in the skin that promote tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and improved microcirculation. It helps your skin behave like younger, healthier skin, more elastic, more hydrated, and better able to repair itself from stress, sun damage, or inflammation.

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Is there vegan PDRN available?

Most PDRN on the market today is fish-derived, and while it’s highly purified and biocompatible, it’s not vegan. That said, lab-grown and synthetic alternatives are starting to emerge, and I’m excited to see the innovation happening in that space. However, until those formulas are backed by solid clinical data, I tend to prioritize what’s proven to deliver regenerative results, which is salmon sperm-derived PDRN. 

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Timeframe to see results? 

In the US, PDRN is only approved for topical use, but when paired with in-office treatments like microneedling or laser, we’re seeing results come on faster. My patients typically notice dewier, glassier skin that looks more plump and elastic, even though PDRN doesn’t add volume in the filler sense. These changes usually appear within a couple weeks of daily use, or within a week when paired with a cosmetic procedure.

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From my global peers, especially in markets where injectable PDRN is more common, the data shows improvement in skin resiliency and glow, but those results tend to be short-lived, often lasting just a couple of months, so maintenance treatments are key. Whether topical or injectable, it’s a regenerative tool that works best as part of a consistent routine.

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Favorite PDRN products?

PDRN is still relatively new to the US market, and because medical-grade skincare requires extensive clinical testing before claims can be made, we haven’t seen many widely available topical options here, yet. That said, there are a few international brands I recommend to patients who are specifically looking for PDRN skincare. Rejuran is one of the most established and well-researched lines, especially in Asia, and IOPE has some innovative formulations that incorporate PDRN for hydration and barrier support. As the science continues to build, I expect we’ll see more options coming soon, especially for post-procedure recovery and skin regeneration.

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Safety for all skin types?

PDRN is gentle and well-tolerated across all skin types. It was originally used to treat burns and wounds, so it’s designed for sensitive, compromised, or aging skin that needs repair and resilience. I’ve used it in patients with melasma, acne-prone skin, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, you name it. Just be mindful of what it’s formulated with; if it’s combined with acids or other actives, that’s where irritation can sneak in.

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Are there any side effects?

Topical PDRN is generally very low-risk. Occasionally, if it’s used right after a procedure like microneedling or laser, patients might notice mild redness or warmth, but that’s more from the treatment than the product itself. On its own, PDRN tends to calm the skin rather than aggravate it, which is why we often reach for it when the barrier is stressed or inflamed.

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Click here to learn more about the restorative powers of PDRN

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For personalized recommendations, schedule a consultation at SOM Aesthetics to learn how PDRN can transform your skin.

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