Lately, there’s been a lot of hype around PDRN—also known as salmon DNA extract—in the beauty world. Once reserved for dermatology clinics and post-procedure treatments, this powerful ingredient is now making its way into everyday skincare products. But what exactly is PDRN, and how does it benefit your skin when used in creams and serums?
What is PDRN?
PDRN stands for Polydeoxyribonucleotide, a compound derived from the DNA of salmon sperm. While it may sound a little out there, it’s actually a highly biocompatible ingredient—meaning it's structurally similar to human DNA, allowing it to support skin regeneration on a cellular level. Originally used in skin-repair injections (like Rejuran), PDRN is known to boost collagen production, accelerate wound healing, and improve skin elasticity and texture.
Effects Based on Concentration
Here’s what you can expect when PDRN is used at different concentrations in skincare:
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5% PDRN
At this level, PDRN helps soothe and hydrate the skin while promoting gentle recovery. It's ideal for daily use and suitable for sensitive or irritated skin. -
10% PDRN
A more noticeable improvement in elasticity, fine lines, and overall skin tone. Great for anti-aging routines and post-breakout recovery. -
20% or higher
This is typically used in intensive treatments or post-procedure care. While it can deliver deeper regeneration benefits, it may also cause mild irritation for sensitive skin types. Formulating at this concentration can also be tricky, as it may affect product stability.
Are There Any Side Effects?
PDRN is generally well-tolerated, thanks to its natural origin and compatibility with human skin. However, some precautions include:
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Allergic reactions: Rare, but possible—especially for those with seafood allergies.
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High concentrations: At 20% or more, there’s a higher chance of redness or a tingling sensation, especially in sensitive skin.
Always patch test new products, especially those with active ingredients like PDRN.
How Much PDRN Can Be Used in Skincare?
There’s no strict legal limit (as of now) on how much PDRN can be used in cosmetics, but most formulations stick to 1–10%. That’s because higher concentrations can cause instability in the product texture and may lead to unwanted skin reactions. For consumer skincare products, 20% is considered the upper limit—and is rarely used outside of specialized treatments.
PDRN is a promising and powerful ingredient that supports skin renewal, hydration, and anti-aging. But more isn’t always better—especially when it comes to sensitive skin. If you’re curious to try PDRN, start with a product that uses 5–10% and see how your skin responds. As research continues to grow, expect to see PDRN playing a bigger role in the future of high-performance skincare.
Salmon PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is quickly becoming a star ingredient in skincare, thanks to its powerful regenerative properties. Derived from salmon DNA, this naturally occurring compound helps stimulate cell repair, improve skin elasticity, and promote collagen production. Originally used in medical treatments for wound healing, PDRN has now made its way into serums and creams, offering anti-aging benefits without harsh chemicals. It's especially popular in products targeting dull, damaged, or aging skin—delivering a smoother, more youthful complexion over time.
Check out these skincare products formulated with Salmon PDRN: 
