From clinics to vanity tables: the salmon DNA craze transforming Korean skincare
Those who have been keeping tabs on Korean beauty and skincare trends, or whose FYP has made it to the K-beauty side of TikTok, should be familiar with the PDRN skincare craze. More provocatively (and less scientifically) known as the “salmon sperm” skincare trend, it has taken over where snail mucin has left off.
Celebrities and influencers who have tried the clinical treatment have extolled its rejuvenating powers, claiming it has resulted in smoother, firmer and more radiant skin. While the results sound promising, many of the claims come from personal testimonials, and clinical studies are still underway to fully understand how effective PDRN is and what side effects it might have.
And for those less inclined to have salmon sperm derivatives injected into their faces, topical PDRN-infused serums and creams are now widely available in the K-beauty market.
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What is PDRN?
PDRN, or Polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a DNA compound that has been clinically tested for anti-inflammatory, wound-healing and skin-regenerative properties, all essential buzzwords in the skincare industry. This naturally sourced compound is the key active behind the so-called “salmon sperm” skincare trend sweeping Korean beauty, prized for its ability to promote cellular repair and visibly rejuvenate the complexion.
While it can be derived from various sources, the most popular and widely used is salmon sperm cells, thanks to the remarkable compatibility between salmon DNA and human DNA. Administered in clinics via micro-injections or applied topically post-microneedling or laser procedures, it penetrates deeply into the skin and cues skin regeneration, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.
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Thanks to its popularity, it was only a matter of time before PDRN made its way to store shelves and gained a significant presence in the at-home skincare market. Although the results pale in comparison without the clinical procedures necessary for the product to penetrate the skin more deeply, topical PDRN serums and creams are known to improve the skin’s texture and elasticity. It just takes much longer, and the results aren’t as dramatic. Below are some PDRN products to consider for your beauty routine.
1. Rejuran Turnover Ampoule
(Photo: Rejuran official website)
From the same company behind the injectable PDRN used in clinical treatments comes this bestselling ampoule. Containing a high concentration of salmon-derived PDRN delivered in small molecules for faster skin absorption, it promises to improve skin tone and texture and help diminish fine lines and wrinkles. The formula also includes hyaluronic acid to boost collagen production and increase skin hydration.
2. IOPE PDRN Caffeine Shot Serum
The PDRN in IOPE’s Caffeine Shot Serum is derived from green tea, making it an ideal option for vegans and people with seafood allergies. Working in tandem, the PDRN provides hydration and repair, while the caffeine helps with skin lifting and tightening.
3. Innisfree Retinol Green Tea PDRN Skinbooster Ampoule
Another vegan option, Innisfree’s version contains a 56 per cent concentration of green tea-derived PDRN to support enhanced skin turnover, triple retinol complex for anti-ageing and hyaluronic acid for hydration. The product promises firmer skin, improved texture and reduced visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.
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4. Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Medicube’s PDRN cream is specially designed to even out skin tone and fade dark spots. Its salmon-derived PDRN, along with collagen, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, is delivered in capsule form to preserve its effectiveness.
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5. Gangnam Glow Rejunol Mucin Cream
(Photo: Gangnam Glow official website)
Here, you get the best of both worlds—combining snail mucin and salmon sperm-derived PDRN in one face cream. Other hero ingredients include three types of hyaluronic acids and five types of ceramides. Together, they work to hydrate, plump and even out skin tone.
6. Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
Formulated with salmon-derived PDRN to repair and rejuvenate, this serum also features hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and collagen to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture, leaving the complexion plump and refreshed.
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