Luminae

Evidence-Based Ingredient Profiles

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Every regenerative and complementary skincare ingredient, explained clearly with study counts, confidence levels, and usage guidance.

PDRN
High EvidenceInjectable & Topical

Core Regenerative

PDRN

Polydeoxyribonucleotide · Salmon sperm extract

The most studied salmon-derived DNA fraction. Activates adenosine A2A receptor signalling to drive tissue repair, collagen production, and inflammation resolution.

Anti-agingWound healingCollagenHydration
40+ studies
Deep dive
Polynucleotides (PN)
High EvidenceInjectable & Topical

Core Regenerative

Polynucleotides (PN)

Long-chain DNA polymers · Salmon testes

Higher-molecular-weight DNA strands that provide a biopolymer scaffold for skin regeneration. Primary form used in aesthetic skin boosters (Rejuran, Nucleofill, Plinest).

Skin boosterHydrationBarrierDermal thickness
28+ studies
Deep dive
DNA Repair Enzymes
High EvidenceTopical only

Advanced Actives

DNA Repair Enzymes

T4 Endonuclease V / Photolyase · Biotechnology

Topically delivered enzymes that enter keratinocytes via liposome encapsulation and catalyse the repair of UV-induced DNA lesions (CPDs). Reduces photoaging and skin cancer risk markers.

DNA repairUV protectionAnti-agingPhotoaging
15+ studies
Deep dive
Skin Peptides
Moderate EvidenceTopical

Complementary Active

Skin Peptides

Signal & Carrier Peptides · Synthetic / Fermentation

Short amino acid chains that mimic signalling proteins. Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl), copper peptides, and acetyl hexapeptide-3 (Argireline) are well-studied in anti-aging.

Anti-agingCollagenFirming
55+ studies
Deep dive
Hyaluronic Acid
High EvidenceTopical & Injectable

Complementary Active

Hyaluronic Acid

Sodium Hyaluronate · Fermentation

A polysaccharide that holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Multi-weight HA formulations — combining high, medium, and low molecular weights — deliver surface and deep hydration simultaneously.

HydrationPlumpingFiller
200+ studies
Deep dive
Niacinamide
High EvidenceTopical

Complementary Active

Niacinamide

Vitamin B3 · Synthetic

One of the most versatile skincare actives. At 5% concentration, shown to improve pigmentation, reduce TEWL, minimise pore appearance, and support ceramide synthesis.

BrighteningBarrierPoresAnti-aging
120+ studies
Deep dive