Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN)

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is a chemical made up of many (that’s the “poly” part of the name) deoxyribonucleotides. What are deoxyribonucleotides? Good question! They’re the building blocks of DNA, the genetic material of all living organisms. The polynucleotides present in this ingredient are biocompatible with human skin, imparting visible repair, surface regeneration and soothing properties, as verified by tests on skin cells and collagen-creating cells known as fibroblasts. Currently, PDRN masks, treatments, moisturizers and serums are gaining popularity. Research has shown that PDRN has dual antioxidant properties: it helps thwart oxidative damage from free radicals and, like superstar antioxidant glutathione, can increase skin’s supply of its own antioxidants, thus revving up its external defenses. It’s also been shown to help repair deeper damage to skin resulting from UV exposure. Although this ingredient has a few sources, most associate it with fish sperm. The appeal of an ingredient derived from fish sperm (usually salmon) is, well, limited. As such, it’s reassuring that there’s a vegan source of polydeoxyribonucleotide to remedy the ick factor some people may feel. Derived from _Panax ginseng_ root, the plant form of PDRN has proven barrier repairing and wound-healing benefits. In 2025, an Amorepacific funded study also found that PDRN could be created from a microalgae source, specifically _Auxenochlorella protothecoides_, formerly known as _Chlorella protothecoides_. The salmon-derived form is rich in cell-energizing, anti-aging compound adenosine. The ginseng-derived polydeoxyribonucleotide also contains adenosine in addition to other bio-active compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Adenosine is the star since it influences multiple signaling pathways that aid visible skin repair, hence its reputation as an anti-aging ingredient. It’s an energizing molecule that helps power many cellular processes that lead to healthier-looking skin. PDRN has also been shown to “connect” with adenosine receptor sites in skin’s uppermost layers. Research has also shown that polydeoxyribonucleotide helps to fade hyperpigmentation when combined with vitamin C and niacinamide and delivered to skin via microneedling. Results were compared with using PDRN alone as well as gold standard ingredient hydroquinone, and the PDRN + vitamin C and niacinamide blend was on par with hydroquinone. Polydeoxyribonucleotide is only available as a cosmetic ingredient as a mixture made of water, butylene glycol and sodium DNA. This explains why you won’t see “polydeoxyribonucleotide” on an ingredient list of a skin care product. Use levels of polydeoxyribonucleotide in cosmetics range from 0.5–2%, with the preponderance of such products coming from Korean skin care brands. Greater amounts are available for use via microneedling or injections from medical spas/aestheticians and dermatologists (in what they often call “salmon sperm facials”), where use indications may go beyond cosmetic benefits. Important note: a systematic review of the use of PDRN in medical settings reviewed 16 clinical trials involving 750 patients revealed that although positive results are possible, there were significant data gaps, inconsistencies and other anomalies which kept them from giving an enthusiastic go-ahead for these treatments. The use of PDRN for skin in aesthetic or medical settings is still developing, and long-term safety data is lacking (remember, these in-office treatments typically use greater amounts of PDRN than are found in skin care). PDRN is considered safe as used in cosmetics.

Related ingredients: Sodium RNA Adenosine Panax Ginseng Root Extract