Every in-the-know beauty lover is well aware that Korean skincare is a force to be reckoned with — and PDRN serums are its latest power player. Derived from salmon sperm DNA, PDRN (otherwise known as polydeoxyribonucleotide), is a gentle yet effective ingredient that keeps gaining momentum.
“South Korea is always ahead of the curve when it comes to skin health and recovery, and PDRN’s ability to restore and repair skin — especially post-treatment — is a huge part of why it’s such a loved ingredient,” shares Dr. Christine Hall, K Beauty expert and GP in medical aesthetics at TakTouk Clinic.
“K Beauty routines prioritise the skin’s barrier function, and PDRN helps with exactly that, offering both calming and healing effects. It’s commonly used to hydrate, reduce redness and ease sensitivity, making it invaluable for sensitive or compromised skin,” she explains.
Thanks to the rise of the salmon sperm facials, PDRN is the latest buzzword in the world of aesthetics, having earned endorsements from celebs and beauty editors alike. Although most effective as an injectable, topical PDRN serums offer an easy alternative to incorporate into your skincare regimen.
As a K Beauty enthusiast myself, I’ve been using PDRN facial serums for months, and I’ve already noticed a sizeable improvement to the quality of my skin. They’ve helped me soothe my rosacea flare-ups and reduce any inflammation associated with my PCOS-related breakouts – all while giving my complexion the glowy boost it so desperately needs.
Below, I’ve curated an edit of the best PDRN serums that have launched so far, including my personal favourites. Here’s everything you need to know.
Meet the experts:
How I tested the best PDRN serums
As a beauty journalist who specialises in all things K Beauty, I’ve written hundreds of articles on the best Korean skincare ingredients. And more recently, I can’t stop raving about PDRN-infused face serums.
Since implementing PDRN serums into my daily routine, I’ve learnt a thing or two about what makes a formula genuinely effective.
Through analysing ingredient lists and consulting with my trusted dermatologists, I’ve become more intuitive about identifying formulas that actually deliver on their claims. When reviewing each formula, I always take note of factors like consistency, value for money, fragrance and, most importantly, efficacy.
Your PDRN questions, answered:
What is PDRN and what are its benefits?
“PDRN (or PolyDeoxyRiboNucleotides) are DNA fragments typically derived from fish, often salmon or trout,” shares Dr. Hall. “It has a well-established history in the medical world – particularly for its role in supporting tissue regeneration and wound healing,” she shares.
According to Dr. Shinny Cho, Korean consultant dermatologist at Future Care Medical, “PDRN first rose to fame in South Korea through in‑clinic treatments such as injectables and skin boosters, where doctors noticed how quickly patients’ skin healed and how luminous it looked afterwards.”
Elsewhere, Dr. Hall shares that “although it can’t penetrate the skin deeply to stimulate collagen production like it does with injections, topical PDRN-infused skincare still provides a host of benefits, such as improving skin hydration and texture, as well as promoting overall skin comfort.”
Do PDRN serums cause any side effects?
“PDRN serums are generally very well tolerated,” shares Dr. Cho. “However, mild reactions such as temporary redness or sensitivity are rare but possible with any new ingredient, so a patch test is a sensible step before applying it all over, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin,” she adds.
Dr. Hall also points out that “PDRN is often derived from fish, it’s important for individuals with fish allergies, as well as those with vegan or religious concerns to be cautious.”
What sets PDRN apart from other alternative ingredients?
“What sets PDRN apart is its ability to restore and regenerate the skin at a deeper level,” says Dr. Hall. “Unlike typical actives like hydrators or exfoliants, it supports the skin’s natural repair processes without needing deep penetration, as retinoids or peptides do,” she shares.
“PDRN not only addresses fine lines but also helps heal and repair, making it perfect for supporting the skin’s ability to regenerate and maintain its integrity over time,” she explains.
Which skin types and concerns benefit from PDRN serums?
According to Dr. Cho, “PDRN serums are especially helpful for skin that needs extra care and repair.”
“They are ideal after procedures like lasers, peels, or micro-needling, as they help soothe and support healing. People with sensitive or redness‑prone skin also often find they calm irritation and reduce visible redness over time, while mature or dehydrated skin benefits from the added hydration and a plumper look,” she explains.
“Overall, they’re a great choice for anyone looking to strengthen and maintain a healthy skin barrier,” Dr. Cho concludes.
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