Ingredient Intelligence A–Z · Nucleic-acid derivative (fish DNA)
PDRN
Also called: Polydeoxyribonucleotide, Salmon DNA, Sodium DNA (cosmetic labelling)
Editorial draft, pending expert review.Grades here are provisional editorial calls and may change after review. This is not medical advice.
What it is
A mixture of DNA fragments, typically extracted from salmon or trout reproductive tissue, used in some medical products and increasingly in skincare.
Why it is trending
Heavy consumer and media attention around 'salmon DNA' serums and injections. See our Big Beauty Story. Trend status is a qualitative editorial call; search and social signals have not been quantified.
How it could work (mechanism only)
Proposed to act through adenosine A2A receptor signalling and by supplying nucleotides for cell repair. Laboratory and animal studies show effects on fibroblast growth, blood-vessel formation and inflammation.
What human studies show
A 2026 systematic review of randomised trials found seven trials (183 participants) of polynucleotide and PDRN products, with the most consistent benefit in wound healing and smaller, more mixed data for skin rejuvenation. Almost all of the data concern injected or clinician-applied products, not shop-bought serums.
Who may benefit
Injectable use is a clinician decision. Topical products are mainly marketed for hydration and barrier support.
Medical use
Used medically in some markets for wound healing, and in clinics as an injected skin booster.
Safety
No serious treatment-related adverse events were reported in the trials reviewed, but samples are small. Injections carry procedure risks such as bruising and infection.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not well studied for cosmetic use in pregnancy; ask your doctor.
What regulators say
Classification varies by market and product. In the US, no injectable PN or PDRN product is FDA-approved for intradermal skin use; topical PDRN is sold as a cosmetic and cannot make medical claims.
Where marketing overreaches
Serum claims of injection-like results. Evidence for topical PDRN is much weaker than for injected products.
Independent editorial information only. It does not replace diagnosis, treatment or advice from your own doctor.
