Salmon DNA: Is This Skincare Ingredient Worth The Hype?

From snail mucin and bull semen, to bee venom and sheep placenta, skincare is known to churn out bizarre skincare ingredients that borrow from animals. The latest addition to this growing list of weird animal-based skincare ingredients is salmon DNA. 

Salmon DNA, scientifically known as PDRN, is the newest offering of ‘regenerative aesthetics’, an anti-ageing branch of cosmetic medicine that prioritises renewing aging tissues over just masking the symptoms. PDRN has quickly gained the status of one of the most talked-about skincare ingredients lately, and if you too, would like to understand it a little better, we’ve got you! 

PDRN acts as a tool to repair and heal the skin, and not just work on the external signs of aging. In terms of structure, salmon DNA is very similar to human DNA, and it helps our skin heal at a cellular level. 

How can PDRN help your skin?

As opposed to treating targeted concerns, this ingredient is used to enhance the skin’s overall health. It is meant to boost collagen, strengthen the skin barrier, and support the skin’s healing process. Dermatologist and Founder of Maven Esthetics, Dr Geoffrey Vaz explains, “Clinically, we use PDRN to improve overall skin quality. It can be particularly helpful for patients experiencing early signs of ageing, reduced skin elasticity, dullness, dehydration and skin that’s recovering after procedures like lasers or microneedling. There is also growing evidence supporting its role in improving certain types of acne scars and assisting with wound healing, although research in these areas continues to evolve.”

Where is PDRN available?

PDRN is available in the form of injectable treatments, as well as in over-the-counter products. However, they both serve different purposes. “It’s important to understand that topical products and injectable treatments aren’t interchangeable.” explains Dr Vaz. “When PDRN is delivered through an in-clinic treatment, it reaches the deeper layers of the skin where it can actively support tissue repair. A topical product may complement your routine by supporting hydration and the skin barrier, but it shouldn’t be viewed as a substitute for professional treatment because they are simply designed for different purposes,” he adds.

Is PDRN safe to use?

Now that you know that this ingredient is dermatologist-backed and comes with a bunch of scientifically-proven benefits, here’s the big question: does it have any risks or side effects involved? Dr. Vaz points out, “Overall, PDRN has demonstrated an excellent safety profile when administered appropriately. Like any injectable treatment, you can expect temporary redness, mild swelling, tenderness or bruising around the injection sites, but these effects usually settle within a few days.”

Is Salmon DNA safe to be paired with other actives?

If your skincare routine already includes actives like retinoids, niacinamide, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA, where does PDRN fit into your skincare routine? “One of the advantages of PDRN is that it works through the skin’s repair mechanisms rather than by exfoliating or accelerating cell turnover, so it generally pairs well with ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin C and retinoids.” says Dr. Vaz. “That said, immediately after an injectable treatment, I usually recommend simplifying your skincare for a short period. Giving the skin time to recover before reintroducing stronger actives like retinol or exfoliating acids allows you to maximise healing while minimising unnecessary irritation because skincare should always be tailored to the individual, rather than following a one-size-fits-all routine,” he concludes.