PDRN, explained

Polydeoxyribonucleotide, better known as “salmon DNA”, went from Korean skin clinics to the top of 2026’s best-seller lists. Here is what it is, how K-beauty uses it, and how to compare the options.

Also called: salmon DNAsodium DNAvegan PDRN
Compare PDRN picksAll ingredient guides
#1Best-selling TikTok Shop product in Q2 2026 was a PDRN balm
100,000 ppmPDRN content VT states for its PDRN 100 Essence
5Popular formats: serums, essences, creams, pads and masks
2Sources: salmon DNA or plant-derived “vegan PDRN”

What it is

DNA fragments, in skincare form

PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is made of small DNA fragments. The original source is salmon or trout, which is why it is nicknamed “salmon DNA”. Newer “vegan PDRN” versions come from plants. On ingredient lists it often appears as sodium DNA.

In Korea it is best known from professional clinic treatments. Skincare brands now add it to serums, creams, pads and masks, where it is mostly positioned for hydration, a bouncier look and calm, comfortable skin.

  • Source: salmon or trout DNA, or plant-derived vegan PDRN
  • Label names: PDRN, sodium DNA, polydeoxyribonucleotide
  • Often paired with peptides, collagen, niacinamide or hyaluronic acid

From clinic treatment to everyday serum

Label reading

How to read a PDRN label

  1. 01

    Find it on the list

    Look for sodium DNA, PDRN or polydeoxyribonucleotide in the ingredients. Ingredients are listed from most to least.

  2. 02

    Check the source

    Salmon-derived or plant-derived. If you avoid animal-derived ingredients, look for vegan PDRN.

  3. 03

    Look at the concentration claim

    Some brands state a ppm number (parts per million). 100,000 ppm equals 10%. Many brands do not share a number at all.

  4. 04

    Notice the partners

    PDRN usually comes with peptides, collagen, niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. The partners shape how the product feels and what it is designed for.

Compare

PDRN picks at T.E.R

Side by side: format, what each brand highlights, price and reviews.

ProductFormatWhat the brand highlightsPriceReviewsStock
SUPPURU
SUPPURU Cica-PDRN Vitalizing Serum		SerumAnti-Aging & Wrinkle Care Serum for Sensitive Skin$25.00★ 5.0 (1)In stock
Medicube
Medicube Salmon DNA PDRN Pink Peptide Eye Serum		Serum—$19.99NewIn stock
Medicube
Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum		Serum—$22.99NewIn stock
Abib
Abib PDRN Collagen Lip Mask Glazed Jelly		Mask—$18.99NewIn stock
EQQUALBERRY
Purple PDRN Pore Minimizing Serum 1.01 FL OZ		Serum—$23.99NewIn stock
VT Cosmetic
VT COSMETICS PDRN 100 Essence		Essence100,000ppm Vegan PDRN Glow Serum$32.00NewIn stock
Arencia
Arencia PDRN Booster Shot		ShotRosy + Salmon PDRN Serum – 30ml$23.45NewIn stock
Medicube
Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Exosome Shot 2,000 – 1.01 fl oz		Shot—$19.99NewIn stock
Medicube
Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream		Cream—$21.99NewRestocking

Good to know

Before you add PDRN

It is a supporting step

Most PDRN products are hydrating serums or creams that slot in after toner and before moisturizer.

Vegan options exist

If you avoid fish-derived ingredients, look for plant-derived vegan PDRN.

Fish allergy?

Salmon-derived PDRN comes from fish. If you have a fish allergy, check with your doctor first.

Patch test first

Try a new product on a small area for a few days before using it all over.

Questions

PDRN FAQ

What does PDRN do for skin?
Brands position PDRN products for hydration, a plumper and bouncier look, and calm, comfortable skin. Results vary by product and person.
Is PDRN really salmon DNA?
Traditional PDRN comes from salmon or trout DNA. Vegan PDRN versions come from plants.
Is a PDRN serum the same as a clinic PDRN treatment?
No. Clinic treatments are done by professionals. Skincare products apply PDRN to the skin’s surface in a cosmetic formula.
Can I use PDRN with retinal or vitamin C?
Many routines layer them. Follow each product’s directions and introduce one new product at a time.
How do I find PDRN in the ingredient list?
Look for sodium DNA, PDRN or polydeoxyribonucleotide.

Not sure which one fits?

Take our free Skin Match quiz and get picks matched to your skin type, or browse every ingredient guide.

Take the Skin Match quizAll ingredient guides
We are a K-beauty retailer, not dermatologists. Product information comes from the brands, and results vary from person to person. This guide is not medical advice; for a skin condition or concern, please talk to a dermatologist or your doctor.