Core Regenerative
PDRN
Polydeoxyribonucleotide
Cellular repair at the deepest level
Origin: Salmon sperm (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
How It Works
PDRN activates the adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) on skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes. This triggers a signalling cascade that upregulates VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and TGF-β, driving new collagen and elastin synthesis. Simultaneously, PDRN suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines — particularly TNF-α and IL-6 — accelerating tissue healing. PDRN's nucleotide fragments also serve as direct building blocks for cellular DNA synthesis, which is especially beneficial in UV-damaged skin where nucleotide pools are depleted.
Clinical Evidence
PDRN has been used in wound-care medicine since the 1990s, giving it one of the more mature evidence bases in regenerative skincare. A 2015 RCT in the Annals of Dermatology showed significant improvement in atrophic acne scars. A 2019 prospective study in Dermatologic Surgery demonstrated a 31% average improvement in elasticity (Cutometer measurement) at 3-month follow-up. A systematic review of 34 studies (Marine Drugs, 2021) confirmed consistent anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative effects. The injectable form (e.g., REJURAN Healer) has the strongest clinical data; topical studies are fewer but show measurable benefits in hydration and surface texture.
Efficacy and Safety of PDRN for Atrophic Acne Scars
2015Statistically significant improvement in scar depth and skin texture vs placebo at 12 weeks (n=40 RCT).
Intradermal PDRN for Facial Skin Aging
201931% improvement in skin elasticity and visible reduction in fine line depth at 3-month follow-up (n=52).
Salmon-Derived Biomaterials for Dermatology: Systematic Review
2021Review of 34 studies confirmed anti-inflammatory, pro-regenerative, and hydration-enhancing effects across in vitro and clinical settings.
How to Use
Apply 2–3 drops of PDRN serum to cleansed, slightly damp skin before your moisturiser. For maximum penetration, precede with a multi-weight hyaluronic acid toner to open hydration channels. For accelerated delivery, use in conjunction with a 0.25–0.5mm derma roller or derma stamp 1–2 times per week — apply the PDRN serum immediately after microneedling on clean skin. Consistency is essential: most studies showing measurable results used daily application over 8–12 weeks.
Best For
Acne scarring, fine lines, loss of elasticity, post-procedure recovery, barrier repair, mature skin, sensitive skin
Cautions
Generally very well tolerated. Not recommended if you have a fish allergy (salmon-derived). As with all active ingredients, introduce gradually if you have reactive skin. Consult a dermatologist before use during pregnancy.
Key Benefits
- Wound healing
- Collagen induction
- Anti-inflammatory
- DNA repair
- Growth factor stimulation
Pairs Well With
Tags
Products with PDRN
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