What Is PDRN (Salmon DNA)? Benefits & How to Use It

Updated April 2026 · about a 7 minute read

The quiet, dewy finish salmon DNA is loved for.

PDRN is one of the most talked about ingredients in Korean skincare right now, but between the science heavy name and the salmon DNA headlines, it is easy to feel lost. This guide breaks it down simply: what PDRN actually is, what it does for skin, what the percentages mean, and how to choose and use a PDRN serum at home in Australia.

What PDRN actually is

PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide, a bit of a mouthful, which is why most people just call it salmon DNA. It is a purified fragment of DNA, most commonly sourced from salmon, prepared specifically for use in skincare.

Why salmon? Salmon DNA is remarkably compatible with human skin, which is why it has become a hero ingredient in K beauty serums, skin boosters, masks and creams. You may also see it referred to as a salmon sperm facial online, that is just a nickname; it is salmon DNA, not sperm. We cleared that one up in our salmon sperm facial explainer.

What PDRN does for skin

In cosmetic skincare, PDRN is valued for supporting the look of healthier, more refreshed skin. It is most associated with:

• Hydration, helping skin look plumper, dewier and more comfortable.
• Firmness and bounce, supporting a smoother, more youthful looking surface.
• Radiance, that even, luminous glass skin finish K beauty is known for.
• Soothing the look of stressed skin, often why it is reached for after treatments like resurfacing.

You will rarely find PDRN working alone. Good formulations pair it with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, glutathione, growth factors and exosomes to round out the result.

Behind a science heavy name and a viral nickname sits one of the most skin friendly actives in K beauty.

PDRN vs polynucleotides vs exosomes vs NAD+

These four terms get used interchangeably online, but they are not the same thing. Here is a quick decoder:

The short version: PDRN and polynucleotides are closely related forms of salmon DNA; exosomes are a delivery technology often combined with PDRN; and NAD+ is a separate active that is increasingly layered in. Many of the best skin boosters combine several of these. Browse our exosome skincare range.

What the PDRN percentage means

You will see PDRN serums advertised with a percentage: 1%, 2%, 3%. The percentage refers to the concentration of PDRN in that formula you apply to the skin. A higher percentage means more of the active ingredient per application.

A few honest caveats so you can shop wisely:

• More is not automatically better for everyone. A higher concentration suits people wanting a more intensive experience on the surface of the skin; a lower one can suit gentler routines or the delicate eye area.
• Percentages only compare like with like. A serum percentage is not directly comparable to an in clinic injectable, which is a different product delivered a different way (more on that below).

For a high concentration option you apply at home, our Jeunetique EXOsomes & PDRN 3% offers 3% PDRN, among the highest salmon DNA concentrations you can apply at home in Australia, combined with exosomes.

At home serums vs resurfacing vs injectable PDRN

PDRN shows up in three very different formats, and knowing the difference helps you choose:

• PDRN you apply at home, serums, boosters, masks and creams. A cosmetic routine; the easiest, lowest commitment way to use salmon DNA regularly.
• PDRN with at home resurfacing, applying a PDRN booster alongside a routine using an at home skin tool (a roller, stamp or pen), which helps the serum reach the surface layers of the skin. Still a cosmetic, at home approach.
• In clinic injectable PDRN, treatments such as Rejuran, where PDRN is delivered by injection by a trained professional. This is a medical or clinical procedure, not a cosmetic product, and it is a different category to the skincare we stock. It is not something you do at home, and a serum you apply is not a substitute for it, they are different approaches for different needs.

If you are drawn to the ingredient and want to use it consistently without a clinic visit, PDRN skincare you apply at home is where most people begin.

How to choose a PDRN serum

A simple way to narrow it down:

• New to PDRN? Start with a daily salmon DNA serum or skin booster and build from there. Browse our PDRN serums & skin boosters.
• Want the maximum concentration you can apply at home? Look for a higher percentage plus exosomes, like our Jeunetique 3% and Vitaran Skin Radiance Series.
• Targeting the under eye area? Choose a gentler, eye specific option such as CureNex Eye PN.
• Building a full routine? Layer a cleanser, booster or serum, moisturiser and SPF from the same salmon DNA range so everything works together.

Whatever you choose: patch test first, follow the directions on the packaging, and if you have a skin condition or any concerns, check with your GP or a qualified skincare professional before starting.

The bottom line

PDRN salmon DNA has earned its place in modern skincare for supporting hydration, firmness and glow. Behind the science heavy name and the viral nickname is a well loved ingredient you can absolutely use at home. Start simple, choose a concentration that suits you, and let it become a consistent part of your routine.

Shop PDRN serums & salmon DNA skincare →

CureNex Salmon DNA & Peptide Sheet Masks, Pack of 5

An easy ten minute soak of PDRN and peptides for calm, dewy, glass skin. Lovely on its own or after your at home skin tool.

$55 AUDAfterpay available · free shipping over $150
Shop sheet masks →

Frequently asked questions

Disclaimer: these are cosmetics, not therapeutic goods, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Rejuran is an injectable administered by qualified practitioners and is referenced for comparison only. Always patch test; not suitable for those with fish allergies.