PDRN serums are the latest K-Beauty trend on the block – meet my favourite formulas
Every in-the-know beauty lover is well aware that Korean skincare is a force to be reckoned with — and PDRN serums are its latest power player. Derived from salmon sperm DNA, PDRN (otherwise known as polydeoxyribonucleotide), is a gentle yet effective ingredient that keeps gaining momentum.
“South Korea is always ahead of the curve when it comes to skin health and recovery, and PDRN’s ability to restore and repair skin — especially post-treatment — is a huge part of why it’s such a loved ingredient," shares Dr Christine Hall, K Beauty expert and GP in medical aesthetics at TakTouk Clinic.
“K Beauty routines prioritise the skin’s barrier function, and PDRN helps with exactly that, offering both calming and healing effects. It’s commonly used to hydrate, reduce redness and ease sensitivity, making it invaluable for sensitive or compromised skin,” she explains.
Thanks to the rise of the salmon sperm facials, PDRN is the latest buzzword in the world of aesthetics, having earned endorsements from celebs and beauty editors alike. Although most effective as an injectable, topical PDRN serums offer an easy alternative to incorporate into your skincare regimen. Options abound and show no sign of slowing down.
“Over the past year, Korean PDRN skincare has moved from being a niche, novel ingredient to being a versatile clinical skincare staple,” says Dr Y. Claire Chang, board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm, who regularly travels to Seoul to bring the latest in K-clinic innovation back to her own practice. “It is now widely used in serums, ampoules, creams, sheet masks and even sunscreens. In Korea, there has been a surge in PDRN products from mid-tier to premium brands, and this has translated into growing global interest.”
PDRN is now so popular that several Korean skincare brands have released plant-powered versions of the ingredient — derived from sources like rose stem cells, ginseng, and green tea. “The newer vegan PDRN serums on the market typically use plant-derived DNA fragments or bioengineered peptides designed to mimic the regenerative effects of traditional PDRN,” Dr Chang explains. While they differ in chemical structure, some “may have similar benefits" when it comes to hydration and overall skin support.
As a K Beauty enthusiast myself, I've been using PDRN facial serums for months, and I've already noticed a sizeable improvement to the quality of my skin. They've helped me soothe my rosacea flare-ups and reduce any inflammation associated with my breakouts – all while creating the coveted glass-skin effect.
Below, I've curated an edit of the best PDRN serums that have launched so far, including my personal favourites. Here's everything you need to know.
Meet the experts:
- Dr Christine Hall, K Beauty expert and GP in medical aesthetics at TakTouk Clinic.
- Dr Shinny Cho, Korean consultant dermatologist at Future Care Medical.
- Dr Y. Claire Chang, board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm.
How I tested the best PDRN serums
Since implementing PDRN face serums into my daily routine, I've learnt a thing or two about what makes a formula genuinely effective.
Through analysing ingredient lists and consulting with my trusted dermatologists, I've become more intuitive about identifying formulas that actually deliver on their claims. When reviewing each formula, I always take note of factors like consistency, value for money, fragrance and, most importantly, efficacy. The PDRN serums on this list have also been tested and reviewed by Glamour's Beauty Contributor and K Beauty expert Denise Primbet.
Why you can trust me
As a beauty editor for more than a decade, I've written hundreds of articles on skincare, many of them focusing on all things K Beauty. Since my introduction to Korean skincare in 2016, I’ve gravitated towards their innovative delivery systems and gentle efficacy.
Since then, I’ve continued to test new launches, including snail mucin creams, cleansing oils, Korean cleansers, rice toners, smoothing Korean eye creams, and hydrating ampoules. I regularly travel to Seoul for market research and even spent three months there researching the latest emerging trends. During that time, I interviewed cosmetic chemists, dermatologists, and K Beauty experts about PDRN skincare, which helped inform my knowledge of what makes a truly great formula.
Scroll for my curated edit of the best PDRN serums that impressed me most…
Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
- Key ingredients: PDRN, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides.
- Concentration of PDRN: 10,000 ppm.
- Size: 30ml.
- Pros: Feels soothing on the skin, helps strengthen the moisture barrier, smoothes skin texture, suitable for sensitive skin.
- Cons: Not fragrance-free.
Why we love it: Medicube is a brand that keeps on giving, and its PDRN range is seriously impressive. Formulated with a 10,000 ppm concentration of PDRN, this hydrating serum helps improve the skin's elasticity, soothe inflammation and plump up the skin.
Inside, you'll find a whole host of skin-loving ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and peptides – all of which will also help fortify your skin barrier, retain moisture and fade hyperpigmentation.
“Apart from the aesthetically pleasing look of this pink formula, I've been thoroughly enjoying the benefits that come with it. As someone who has sensitive and rosacea-prone skin, I loved its soothing properties and the immediate hydrating feel. From calming my flare-ups to fading my dark spots and strengthening my skin barrier, there's a handful of reasons why I've already emptied three bottles of this multitasking serum,” shares Glamour's Primbet.
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Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid complex, PDRN, hydrolysed collagen.
- Concentration of PDRN: 100 ppm.
- Size: 30ml.
- Pros: Offers an instant boost of hydration, helps plump up the skin, and doesn't feel too thick or greasy.
- Cons: Not vegan.
Why we love it: Whether you're just dipping your toes into the world of K Beauty or if you consider yourself a Korean serum veteran, this clever formula from Anua is definitely worth checking out. Infused with PDRN, hyaluronic acid and hydrolysed collagen, it doesn't feature any irritants or comedogenic ingredients, making it suitable for all skin types.
Not only will it instantly replenish the skin, but it will also deliver lasting hydration – all while leaving your complexion glowier than ever. “What I love most about this serum is that it's surprisingly lightweight and fast-absorbing for a formula that gives me such a serious boost of hydration. And for this reason, it's managed to dethrone every hyaluronic acid serum I own,” says Glamour's Primbet.
Rejuran Turnover Ampoule C-PDRN
- Key ingredients: PDRN, Adenosine, raspberry leaf extract.
- Concentration of PDRN: 5,000 ppm.
- Size: 30ml.
- Pros: Helps improve a damaged skin barrier, feels nourishing on the skin, clinically-backed formula.
- Cons: Expensive.
Why we love it: It's no secret that Rejuran is behind one of the most popular injectable facials in South Korea, and with good reason. Although you may not get the same transformative results, this PDRN serum could be a great start towards healthier skin. Enriched with adenosine to help tighten the skin, this clinically developed formula may be far from affordable, but it certainly lives up to its claims. Apart from strengthening your skin barrier, it also helps tighten the pores and soothe any irritation – making it a great PDRN serum to rely on for just about any skin type (including sensitive skin).
“This was the first PDRN serum I tried and it remains a favourite,” says Glamour's Wu. “My skin always feels especially firm and bouncy after consistent use.” Dr Chang also highly rates Rejuran's formula. “It's formulated with c-PDRN, a patented salmon-based PDRN that helps to hydrate, repair, soothe, and brighten the skin,” she says. “The texture is smooth and absorbs well.”
- Key ingredients: PDRN, ceramides, panthenol.
- Concentration of PDRN: 100,000 ppm.
- Size: 30ml.
- Pros: Vegan, has a pleasant milky texture, features a higher concentration of PDRN.
- Cons: More expensive compared to other formulas.
Why we love it: Sourced from ginseng, this PDRN serum offers a great vegan alternative to fish-derived PDRN formulas. Its lower molecular weight and enhanced stability help increase the absorption rate, making it just as (if not more) effective as traditional PDRN serums. This “milky” formula also comes infused with panthenol and ceramides – both of which are known for their barrier-strengthening and moisturising benefits. Oh, and did we mention that it's also fast-absorbing and free from any added fragrance?
Genabelle PDRN Vita Toning Ampoule
- Key ingredients: PDRN, glycerin, hyaluronic acid.
- Concentration of PDRN: 5,000 ppm.
- Size: 30ml.
- Pros: Feels lightweight on the skin, has soothing properties, helps brighten the skin.
- Cons: Not fragrance-free.
Why we love it: If you're someone who has sensitive or sensitised skin, you'll love this gentle yet effective formula from Genabelle, which has undergone special testing for low irritation. Containing 5,000 ppm of PDRN, this serum is infused with vitamin capsules to help simultaneously brighten and nourish the skin. Its antioxidant properties will help shield your skin from free radicals while hydrating heroes like glycerin and hyaluronic acid will keep your complexion nice and hydrated in the process. About the only con worth spotlighting is that it's not entirely free of fragrance, which may not be great news if you're sensitive to scented formulas.
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- Key ingredients: Bio-PDRN, probiotics, caffeine, niacinamide.
- Concentration of PDRN: 38%
- Size: 30ml.
- Pros: Feels lightweight on the skin, helps decrease the look of puffiness.
- Cons: Expensive
Why we love it: Iope pioneered one of the first plant-based PDRN serums, derived from green tea extract. It remains well-loved in Korea and is also one of Dr Chang's top picks. The formula contains 38% plant-derived PDRN, 20,000ppm caffeine, niacinamide, beta-glucan, and adenosine. “It's very lightweight and hydrating,” says Dr Chang. “I like to use it on days when my face is swollen, given the high concentration of caffeine.” Pairing caffeine and PDRN in one formula is key to simultaneously targeting hydration, inflammation, and puffiness. Like Rejuran's PDRN serum, it's on the expensive side but well worth the investment.
Your PDRN questions, answered:
What is PDRN and what are its benefits?
“PDRN (or PolyDeoxyRiboNucleotides) are DNA fragments typically derived from fish, often salmon or trout,” shares Dr Hall. “It has a well-established history in the medical world – particularly for its role in supporting tissue regeneration and wound healing,” she shares.
According to Dr Shinny Cho, Korean consultant dermatologist at Future Care Medical, “PDRN first rose to fame in South Korea through in‑clinic treatments such as injectables and skin boosters, where doctors noticed how quickly patients’ skin healed and how luminous it looked afterwards.”
Dr Chang adds that the ingredient is known for “skin-repairing and anti-inflammatory properties” when used for injections. “PDRN has been shown to potentially support collagen production and reduce pigmentation,” she says.
Elsewhere, Dr Hall shares that “although it can’t penetrate the skin deeply to stimulate collagen production like it does with injections, topical PDRN-infused skincare still provides a host of benefits, such as improving skin hydration and texture, as well as promoting overall skin comfort.”
Do PDRN serums cause any side effects?
“PDRN serums are generally very well tolerated,” shares Dr Cho. “However, mild reactions such as temporary redness or sensitivity are rare but possible with any new ingredient, so a patch test is a sensible step before applying it all over, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin,” she adds.
Dr Hall also points out that “PDRN is often derived from fish, it’s important for individuals with fish allergies, as well as those with vegan or religious concerns to be cautious.”
What sets PDRN apart from other alternative ingredients?
“What sets PDRN apart is its ability to restore and regenerate the skin at a deeper level,” says Dr Hall. “Unlike typical actives like hydrators or exfoliants, it supports the skin’s natural repair processes without needing deep penetration, as retinoids or peptides do,” she shares.
“PDRN not only addresses fine lines but also helps heal and repair, making it perfect for supporting the skin’s ability to regenerate and maintain its integrity over time,” she explains.
Which skin types and concerns benefit from PDRN serums?
According to Dr Cho, “PDRN serums are especially helpful for skin that needs extra care and repair.”
“They are ideal after procedures like lasers, peels, or micro-needling, as they help soothe and support healing. People with sensitive or redness‑prone skin also often find they calm irritation and reduce visible redness over time, while mature or dehydrated skin benefits from the added hydration and a plumper look,” she explains.
“Overall, they’re a great choice for anyone looking to strengthen and maintain a healthy skin barrier,” Dr Cho concludes.
More PDRN-infused skincare worth trying:
While serums are a great entry way into the world of PDRN skincare, the good news is that it doesn't end there. From rejuvenating toner pads to travel-friendly single-use ampoules, moisturisers and even face masks, there's no shortage of PDRN-infused formulas that will take your routine to new levels.
Dr. Reju-All Advanced PDRN Rejuvenating Cream
This nourishing PDRN moisturiser is known for its highly purified PDRN. Dr Chang notes that the formula uses “pharmaceutical-grade salmon-derived PDRN” and is “designed to support skin regeneration and recovery.” She recommends it for its “silky, rich feel” and smooth finish. “It improves hydration and overall skin texture,” she says. Glamour’s Wu adds that this formula is especially moisturising compared to the other PDRN skincare on this list, making it ideal for dry and dehydrated skin types.
Dr.Althea PDRN Reju 5000 Cream
This PDRN moisturiser focuses on the ingredient’s soothing benefits by pairing it with Centella asiatica, a popular Korean skincare ingredient for calming inflammation and redness. “The high concentration of PDRN (5,000 ppm), Centella asiatica, panthenol, and multi-weight hyaluronic acid support skin repair, hydration, and barrier health,” says Dr Chang. “It's great for those with dry or sensitive skin.”
medicube Salmon DNA PDRN pink collagen jelly gel mask
The ultimate overnight skin saviour, this gel mask from Medicube has already gone viral for its glow-boosting and soothing benefits, and with good reason. If you can get past the idea of wearing it to sleep, it can definitely help revive your skin in a matter of hours. Great if you're prepping for a special event.
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Genabelle PDRN Rejuvenating Cream
Everyone knows that a solid skincare routine starts with a quality moisturiser, and this PDRN-enriched cream from Genabelle is a great all-rounder formula for all skin types. Despite its lightweight feel, it feels surprisingly nourishing on the skin, which helps your skin retain that much-needed moisture throughout the day.
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