What Is PDRN in Skincare? Everything You Need to Know

Heard about PDRN in skincare and wondering what it does? Here’s the real science, no spin.

What Is PDRN and what does it do for the skin?

What Does It Do for Your Skin?

PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) might sound like something out of a science lab, but it’s actually a powerful skin-repair molecule your body already knows how to use. First used in medical treatments to help heal damaged skin, it’s now showing up in skincare because, simply put, it works. Here’s what it actually does:

Repairs + renews: Delivers DNA fragments your skin uses to repair itself and speed up skin cell renewal.
Firms + smooths: Activates fibroblasts- the cells that make collagen and elastin for stronger, more elastic, radiant skin.
Calms + restores: Helps skin recover from stress.
Boosts glow + texture: Leaves skin looking smoother, bouncier, and more radiant.

Once exclusively used in clinical treatments like lasers and peels, INKEY’s vegan PDRN brings that same next-level skin repair straight to your daily routine: no needles, no downtime, just results.

How does vegan PDRN differ?

Vegan PDRN skips the salmon and uses plant or biotech sources instead. We use INJIN PDRN, which is derived from the plant, Artemisia capillaris.

Here’s the difference:

Source: Made from plants or microorganisms, not fish. 100% cruelty-free and suitable for anyone avoiding animal ingredients.
Effect: Works the same way- helps renew skin and support collagen but research is newer. INJIN PDRN has been proven to outperform salmon and vegan alternatives in clinical trials*

Vegan PDRN gives you the same repair benefits, without the fish DNA.

*Completed by the supplier of INJIN PDRN.

Key Benefits of PDRN for Skin

Speeds up skin repair and renewal
Boosts collagen production
Improves skin elasticity and firmness
Strengthens the skin barrier
Smooths texture and reduces fine lines
Supports recovery after treatments

How to Use PDRN in Your Skincare Routine

Get the most out of PDRN with these quick tips:

Best for: Skin showing signs of aging or dullness.
When: Use AM and PM as part of your ‘Treat’ step.
How: Apply your PDRN serum after cleansing and before moisturizer.
Pair with: Hydrators like hyaluronic acid or barrier boosters like ceramides.
Avoid overload: If using strong actives like retinol or acids, alternate nights to avoid irritation.
Protect it: Always wear SPF during the day, repair only works if your skin’s protected.

FAQs About PDRN in Skincare

What is PDRN used for?

To repair skin, support collagen, smooth texture, and reduce fine lines.

Does PDRN contain salmon sperm?

Yes, the traditional version does. It’s purified and safe. If that’s not for you, choose vegan PDRN.

Can I use PDRN and retinol together?

Yes, but go slow. Alternate nights or apply PDRN after retinol to calm and repair.

Can I pair PDRN with Vitamin C?

Yes. Use Vitamin C in the morning and PDRN at night, or layer if your skin tolerates both.

Is vegan PDRN sustainably sourced?

Our INJIN PDRN is yes, It’s made from plants, so no animals involved.

What is INKEY Lab?

We created INKEY to cut through the BS - by showing up, listening, and building together.

Welcome to INKEY Lab - where we’re reimagining how skincare is made, with you at the centre. Here, you’ll co-create with us: testing fresh formulas before anyone else, sharing your feedback, and helping decide what makes the cut. You’ll also get exclusive invites and early access to our latest innovations.

Our community means everything to us. As an INKEY Insider, you’ll get to test, trial, and shape the skincare innovations of tomorrow. From lab to launch, you’ll be the first to experience new product drops and the voice behind our biggest launches.

Got an idea? If there’s a product you’ve always wished existed - or a skin concern no brand has quite solved - we want to hear it. No one knows your skin like you do. This is your chance to shape what comes next.

Find out more about INKEY Lab.