The glass skin trend is here to stay, and PDRN is the ingredient dubbed the ultimate glass skin hack. But what exactly is PDRN, and is it really made from salmon sperm? Well…yes. PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is an ingredient derived from salmon DNA, or more specifically, salmon sperm. However, this does not mean your skincare actually contains salmon sperm, just its DNA fragments.
How does PDRN work?
According to Melody Yuan, founder of K-beauty store Skin Cupid, PDRN works by activating A2A adenosine receptors in the skin, which control anti-inflammatory responses, stimulate cell growth, and encourage new blood vessel formation. Not only that, but PDRN is also a fantastic anti-aging ingredient. Yuan explains that PDRN encourages the proliferation of fibroblasts, the skin's collagen-producing cells, helping to boost skin firmness, elevate skin hydration levels, and enhance tissue regeneration, speeding up wound healing. Thanks to their low molecular weight, these fragments do a far superior job of penetrating the skin, making the skincare much more effective than regular products.
Top PDRN skincare products
Already a hugely popular ingredient in Korea, PDRN made its way West in early 2025, with many top brands now using the technology. After extensive testing and reviewing, here are the very best PDRN skincare products you should be adding to your routine immediately.
Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
Anua's PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum is formulated with PDRN, hyaluronic acid, and hydrolyzed collagen to leave skin glowing, hydrated, and visibly plumper with every use. Non-sticky with a lightweight gel-like texture, it is perfect under your moisturizer or daily SPF. Buy Now for £20.
VT PDRN Reedle Shot 100
With PDRN technology behind it, VT's PDRN Reedle Shot 100 is designed to penetrate deep into the skin to deliver a plethora of skin benefits. Applied daily, this lightweight cream will improve collagen production, skin elasticity, and hydration. Buy Now for £35.
Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
If you have dull, drab skin and a compromised skin barrier, Medicube's PDRN Pink Peptide Serum can work wonders. Formulated with a high dose of salmon-derived PDRN, peptides, and niacinamide, it smooths the look of fine lines, strengthens the skin, and gives complexions a brighter, more even finish. Buy Now for £24.
Dr. Althea PDRN Reju 5000 Cream
The Dr. Althea PDRN Reju 5000 Cream is a non-greasy moisturizer that brings moisture to the skin, smooths skin texture, and improves elasticity. Formulated with 5,000ppm PDRN (from salmon DNA) and calming centella asiatica, it works to support skin repair while soothing irritation and strengthening the barrier. Buy Now for £22.30.
Biodance Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask (4 Pack)
K-beauty brand Biodance delivers serious glow with its Caviar PDRN Real Deep Masks. Packed with PDRN, caviar, hydrating ingredients, niacinamide, and glycerin, it helps boost radiance while keeping skin calm and comfortable. In just an hour, skin feels softer, firmer, and deeply nourished. Buy Now for £14.90.
Glow Recipe PDRN Repair + Soothe Toner Pads
Glow Recipe's PDRN Repair + Soothe Toner Pads are a quick fix for stressed, reactive skin. With plant-based PDRN, centella, and panthenol, they help calm redness while giving skin a boost of hydration and support. Suitable for sensitive skin, fragrance-free, and easy to use, they leave irritated skin feeling cooled and comforted. Buy Now for £27.
Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Peptide Glowy Balm
Korean skincare brand Haruharu Wonder brings its signature gentle touch to lip care with the Rose PDRN Peptide Glowy Balm. This no-scent, no-tint formula is made purely for comfort and hydration. With moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil, it keeps lips soft and smooth rather than sticky. Formulated with a blend of peptides, lactic acid, and vegan rose-derived PDRN, it helps refine texture over time, supporting a healthier, plumper-looking pout. Buy Now for £11.
Genabelle PDRN Vita Toning Ampoule
If you have dull, uneven skin, the Genabelle PDRN Vita Toning Ampoule is a gamechanger. Made with 5,000ppm PDRN to help support collagen, repair skin, and bring back a healthier-looking glow, as well as encapsulated vitamins B, C, and E, plus a HTD-Genacomplex, it works to even skin tone, fade hyperpigmentation, and soothe sensitivity while delivering a hit of deep hydration. Buy Now for £26.
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