PDRN, short for polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a compound made from purified DNA fragments, usually sourced from salmon or trout. It is used in skincare and dermatology for its ability to help the skin repair, regenerate, and stay hydrated. It is becoming a key ingredient in advanced anti-ageing and post-treatment skincare routines. This article will cover everything you need to know when it comes to PDRN.

How PDRN Works

PDRN works at the cellular level by activating the adenosine A₂A receptor, a protein which reduces inflammation and supports cell migration, fibroblast activity and collagen production all of which are essential processes for skin repair, regeneration, and overall barrier recovery. In studies, PDRN was shown to reduce keratinocyte ageing caused by UV or oxidative stress, helping cells regenerate more effectively. Research also indicates that the molecular weight range of PDRN supports better wound closure and tissue repair.

“PDRN has quickly become so popular because it doesn’t just target one concern -it supports almost every aspect of healthy skin function, from healing and hydration to firmness and brightness,” Rhysa Phommachanh, BSc Specialist in Hair and Media Makeup

Benefits of PDRN in Skincare

Here are key benefits of PDRN in skincare and regeneration that are currently backed by research:

• Promotes faster healing: Studies have shown that people treated with PDRN heal almost twice as quickly as those who do not receive it. This is because PDRN helps calm inflammation and increases blood flow to the skin and rebuild damaged areas faster. This makes it especially helpful for people with sensitive, damaged, or post-treatment skin, and for those dealing with skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, acne scarring, or dermatitis, where healing and barrier repair are often slower.
• Supports skin regeneration: Research has found that PDRN helps skin recover after injury by encouraging new, healthy cells to form. It supports the skin’s natural healing cycle, helping to smooth rough texture and restore softness after irritation or treatment.
• Supports anti-ageing: PDRN encourages your skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin. These are the proteins that keep your skin firm, bouncy and smooth. With regular use, this can help reduce the look of fine lines and improve overall texture.
• Reduces inflammation and redness: Because PDRN works to reduce excess inflammation, it means less redness, calmer skin and a quicker recovery especially after treatments such as microneedling, laser therapy or chemical peels. It can also be beneficial for people with inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, acne, or eczema, where the skin barrier is weakened and prone to flare-ups.
• Deeply hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier: PDRN helps the skin hold onto moisture more effectively. It supports the renewal of skin cells and restores balance to the outer barrier, leaving the skin hydrated, plump and less sensitive to environmental stress.
• Brightens and evens skin tone: By supporting healthy cell turnover, PDRN may help to fade dark spots and uneven pigmentation. This gives the complexion a brighter, more radiant look over time and helps reduce dullness caused by environmental stress.
• Reduces the appearance of scars: PDRN can help remodel the skin by supporting the natural breakdown of hardened scar tissue, improving the appearance of acne scars or textured skin. This makes it a good option for those focused on long-term skin repair.
• Minimises pore appearance: By boosting collagen production and improving skin elasticity, PDRN helps refine and tighten the look of pores, leaving the skin smoother and more even.

Is PDRN Safe in the UK?

Yes, PDRN is legal and safe to use in the UK when it comes from a regulated and reputable source. Skincare formulas must comply with UK Cosmetic Regulations, meaning they undergo safety assessments and are approved before sale.

Topical PDRN serums are gentle and well tolerated by most skin types.However, those with fish allergies, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should check with a healthcare professional first. For injectable forms, always visit a licensed aesthetic practitioner.

Alternatives to PDRN serums

If you like the benefits of PDRN but prefer other options available in the UK, here are three excellent alternatives you can find at Landys Chemist. Each offers similar skin-repairing and brightening benefits, with their own unique strengths.

1. Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum

Perfect for those drawn to PDRN because of its brightening and pigmentation-correcting effects. This serum uses viniferine, a natural compound from grapevine sap, to visibly reduce dark spots and even out skin tone. Like PDRN, it promotes healthier cell renewal and glow, but it focuses more on radiance and anti-pigmentation rather than collagen renewal.

2. Institut Esthederm E.V.E. Serum 

A rejuvenating and regenerating serum designed to support the skin’s natural rebuilding process. It strengthens the structure of the epidermis, helping improve tone, texture, and luminosity. Like PDRN serums, it encourages cellular repair, but it does so through a complex blend of essential nutrients and biomimetic ingredients rather than DNA fragments.

3. Hifas da Terra Mico-Repair Skin Serum 

A powerful, natural serum made with medicinal mushrooms and antioxidants to protect and restore stressed skin. It supports skin barrier health, hydration and recovery, much like PDRN, though it is less focused on anti-ageing and more on repair, soothing, and environmental protection.

“Each of these options provides regenerative and strengthening effects without relying on fish-derived DNA, making them great alternatives for those looking for PDRN-like results with cleaner or vegan-friendly formulations.” says Rhysa Phommachanh.

How PDRN is Used

• Professional treatments: Injected or used in skin booster procedures to repair tissue and improve tone and texture.
• Topical skincare: Found in serums, creams and masks for daily hydration, regeneration, and calming benefits.
• Post-treatment care: Used after microneedling, peels, or laser therapy to reduce redness and speed recovery.
• Medical applications: Studied for wound healing, burns, and other tissue-repair uses.

Summary

PDRN skincare has become one of the most talked-about topics in skin regeneration and repair. Derived from purified salmon DNA, it helps the skin heal faster, stay hydrated and look smoother by boosting collagen production and calming inflammation. It’s especially popular in anti-ageing and post-treatment skincare, helping sensitive or damaged skin recover more quickly.

While clinical studies mainly focus on injectable PDRN, topical PDRN serums can still deliver visible results when used consistently. The ingredient supports hydration, firmness and radiance, making it a smart choice for anyone with tired, ageing or easily irritated skin.

“PDRN is a gentle yet powerful way to help the skin rebuild itself. It’s ideal for restoring balance and radiance in skin that feels dull, stressed or dehydrated,” Rhysa Phommachanh, BSc Specialist in Hair and Media Makeup

FAQs

Is PDRN made from salmon sperm?

Yes. Most PDRN used in skincare and medical treatments is extracted from the sperm cells of salmon or trout. These DNA fragments are then purified and sterilised through advanced filtration to ensure they are completely safe and free from proteins or contaminants. While it might sound unusual, this source is used because salmon DNA is highly compatible with human skin cells and supports natural regeneration.

Can I use PDRN with retinol or acids?

Yes, PDRN can be combined with actives like retinol, AHAs or vitamin C. It helps soothe and support the skin barrier, making strong ingredients more tolerable.

Is PDRN vegan or cruelty-free?

Traditional PDRN is not vegan because it’s fish-derived. However, synthetic and plant-based alternatives are now being developed that deliver similar regenerative benefits.

When will I see results with PDRN skincare?

Most people notice smoother, more hydrated skin within two to four weeks. Long-term improvements in firmness and brightness develop with consistent use.

Is PDRN good for menopause?

Yes, PDRN can be beneficial for menopausal skin. During menopause, collagen levels drop and the skin often becomes thinner, drier, and more sensitive. PDRN supports collagen production, hydration, and skin repair, helping to restore firmness and comfort. It also helps calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier, which can be especially useful for those experiencing increased sensitivity or redness due to hormonal changes.

Sources:

1. PDRN prevents SIRT1 degradation by attenuating autophagy during skin aging | PLOS One
2. An effective range of polydeoxyribonucleotides is critical for wound healing quality
3. Pharmacological Activity and Clinical Use of PDRN - PMC
4. Versatile and Marvelous Potentials of Polydeoxyribonucleotide for Tissue Engineering and Regeneration - PMC
5. Analysis of Skin Regeneration and Barrier-Improvement Efficacy of Polydeoxyribonucleotide Isolated from Panax Ginseng (C.A. Mey.) Adventitious Root