What Is PDRN in Korean Beauty? Exploring Medicube's Salmon DNA Skincare Line

Skincare enthusiasts are buzzing about PDRN, or polydeoxyribonucleotide, a regenerative ingredient derived from salmon sperm DNA. Despite its unusual origin, PDRN has gained popularity for its skin-rejuvenating properties, including promoting collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity, and reducing inflammation. This has led to a surge in products incorporating PDRN, particularly from Korean skincare brand Medicube.

What Is PDRN?

PDRN consists of DNA fragments sourced from salmon sperm, known for their high biocompatibility with human skin. These fragments are purified and sterilized before being used in skincare formulations. PDRN is celebrated for its ability to stimulate skin regeneration, making it effective in addressing signs of aging, uneven skin tone, and post-treatment recovery. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe irritated skin.

Why Salmon Sperm?

When it comes to sourcing DNA for skincare, science points to an unexpected hero salmon sperm. Unlike other DNA sources, salmon sperm contains remarkably low levels of proteins, peptides, and impurities, making it the perfect candidate for extracting highly purified DNA. This purity ensures that the active ingredient, known as PDRN, remains stable and effective when used in skincare formulas.

What does PDRN do for the skin?

PDRN is celebrated for its ability to stimulate skin regeneration, promoting tissue repair, stimulating collagen production, and speeding up wound healing. That makes it effective in addressing signs of aging, uneven skin texture and tone, and post-treatment recovery. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe irritated skin.    

Korean PDRN can also inhibit melanin production to help reduce hyperpigmentation, making it great for getting rid of acne scars and sunspots.

On cosmetic ingredient lists, it often appears as Sodium DNA, which is the cosmetically stable form of PDRN.

You may also notice Salmon Egg Extract - while it’s related to the same source (salmon), Sodium DNA is the actual active component that provides the PDRN-like regenerative benefits.

Is PDRN better than Hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a well-known hydration powerhouse that attracts and retains moisture, instantly replenishing the skin for a plumper, smoother, and more radiant appearance. While it delivers an immediate boost of hydration, PDRN works on a deeper level by supporting natural skin regeneration and repair at the cellular level. Over time, this promising skin anti-ageing ingredient helps refine texture, enhance elasticity, and strengthen the skin’s overall health, revealing a firmer, more youthful-looking complexion.

Is PDRN safe for sensitive skin?

One of the standout qualities of PDRN is just how gentle it is, making it a safe and effective option for even the most sensitive skin. Unlike harsher ingredients, it works without stripping or over-correcting, offering regenerative benefits without triggering irritation.

In fact, PDRN pairs seamlessly with other actives - whether retinol, AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C - helping to calm and protect the skin while enhancing their effectiveness. For anyone looking to strengthen their skin barrier and promote healing without compromise, PDRN is a truly versatile ally.

One important note: if you have a fish or shellfish allergy, it’s best to proceed with caution. Always consult your doctor before introducing a new product containing PDRN to ensure it won’t trigger a reaction. Even if you don’t have known allergies, any new skincare product carries a small risk of irritation, so patch testing and gradual introduction into your routine is always a smart move.

Medicube's PDRN Skincare Line

Medicube has developed a range of products featuring PDRN to harness its skin-rejuvenating benefits. Here are three standout products:

1. Medicube PDRN Booster Gel

This hydrating gel is formulated with salmon-derived PDRN and seven types of peptides to improve skin elasticity and texture. It helps calm irritation and supports the skin barrier, making it suitable for daily use.

2. Medicube PDRN Pink Hyaluronic Moisturizing Cream

Combining PDRN with multiple types of hyaluronic acid, this cream provides deep hydration and enhances skin elasticity. It also contains niacinamide and ceramide to brighten and strengthen the skin barrier.

3. Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum

This lightweight serum features PDRN and peptides to improve skin tone and texture. It's designed to hydrate and firm the skin, offering a non-sticky finish ideal for layering in your skincare routine.

Regular use of these products can help achieve a smoother, more youthful complexion.

Incorporating PDRN into your skincare routine can offer regenerative and anti-aging benefits, promoting a healthier and more radiant complexion. Medicube's PDRN-infused products provide a convenient way to experience these benefits at home.