Before Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) or the salmon DNA-derived ingredient, as we popularly know it, managed to get a firm footing in beauty’s hall of fame, it had humble beginnings in wound healing. Its sudden trajectory from a niche Korean treatment to being a favourite of celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Hailey Bieber and Miley Cyrus is down to its immense benefits. But as it grows in popularity and form – from injectables to topical options and now vegan ones – does its effectiveness and by that, its very credibility, change? We ask the experts.
What is PDRN?
More often than not, you would have heard of PDRN being referred to as the ‘salmon sperm’ ingredient. That’s a bit of an oversimplification. Traditional PDRN consists of DNA fragments extracted mainly from the sperm cells of specific salmon species, such as steelhead trout or chum salmon, which then undergo extensive purification.
Basically, the ‘sperm facial’ you hear so many enthusiasts raving about is a mix of purified polydeoxyribonucleotides that are injected into the skin with tiny needles. Given that salmon DNA is similar to human DNA, PDRN is biocompatible with the human body. Apart from injectables, PDRN is also available in topical formulas, both traditional and plant-based.
What benefits can you actually expect from PDRN?
The proof is in its popularity, it would seem, and it does have science to back it up. “PDRN has a more serious clinical background than some beauty trends because it was primarily used in tissue repair and healing, for its ability to support cell repair, to create new blood vessels and to reduce or modulate inflammation through different pathways within the tissues. So, since it had a credible repair story in medicine, of course skincare and skin injectables became interested in the same process,” explains Dr Swetha Dilip, aesthetic physician at the White Door.
As for whether it delivers, Dr Yash Mehta, facial plastic surgeon and founder of Aesthetic & Cosmetic Surgery (ACSC), says he genuinely sees healthier skin. “The science behind its regeneration is real; the marketing around it can sometimes become exaggerated. PDRN can definitely improve skin quality and recovery.” His patients report better hydration, smoother texture, reduced sensitivity and better recovery. “But what it does not do is replace treatments for laxity, facial volume loss, pigmentation or major textural concerns,” he adds.
Who should use PDRN
At its very core, Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder and director of Yavana Skin & Hair Clinic, believes that PDRN is a “recovery ingredient rather than an aggressive corrective active. Unlike retinol, which pushes skin cells to turn over faster, PDRN supports the skin in repairing and rebuilding itself.” She finds it most beneficial for people dealing with early ageing, dullness, compromised skin barrier, dehydration, post-procedure recovery or skin that heals slowly. “It’s particularly useful for patients in their 30s and beyond because natural regenerative activity declines with age. It can also help younger individuals who live in polluted cities, those who have stressed skin or struggle with inflammation after acne,” she says. “PDRN is not going to erase pores, completely remove wrinkles or transform severely damaged skin on its own. One of the biggest mistakes I see is people expecting PDRN alone to replace proven skincare basics or medical treatments.”
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: vogue.in
