Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
PDRN seems to be everywhere right now, but can even the best PDRN serums really deliver all the skin-smoothing, barrier-strengthening benefits people claim? Before you start slathering on salmon sperm DNA (yes, really), it helps to understand more about one of the buzziest ingredients to emerge from K-beauty. “PDRN, or polydeoxyribonucleotide, refers to DNA fragments that are most commonly derived from salmon sperm DNA,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City. It's been used in regenerative medicine for years in Europe and Asia, where "there is credible clinical use of [injectable] PDRN in medical settings for wound healing and ulcers,” Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut, previously told Allure, who noted that it's generally well-tolerated.
The thinking behind PDRN is that it can supposedly target certain receptors on your cells. “Think of the skin cell as a ball, and the receptor is sticking out on top of it like a light switch,” said Dr. Gohara. “PDRN injections are basically turning on the switch to wake up the cells and hopefully get them to produce more collagen.” It's historically been used as an injectable skin booster abroad, where it's offered as a “regenerative” skin booster as well as part of post-procedure recovery after lasers, chemical peels, and microneedling. PDRN injections are not approved by the FDA for cosmetic skin rejuvenation and are not legally used for those purposes in the United States.
Our Top PDRN Serums
- Best Overall: IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum, $59
- Best for Uneven Texture: Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+, $96
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist, $21
- Best for Early Signs of Aging: Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule, $55
Whether that translates to topical products, though, is still unclear. There’s a difference between hype and hard evidence, “and I’m skeptical as to how well the data is substantiating PDRN’s skin-care claims,” Kelly Dobos, a Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist, previously told Allure. So far, much of the research on PDRN as a skin-care ingredient has taken place in petri dishes, which don't account for the many complexities of human skin cells. “The evidence that we have on PDRN’s benefits is in cell cultures, where it can do things like turn off melanin production. That’s not the same thing as saying, ‘If you put this in a cream, and put that on your skin, it’s going to work,’” Perry Romanowski, a Chicago-based cosmetic chemist, previously told Allure.
And while topical PDRN has become a buzzy skin-care ingredient, there's currently little clinical evidence showing that PDRN serums deliver the same benefits seen when it's injected. That doesn't necessarily mean these formulas can't improve the look of your skin, but rather that it's difficult to know how much of the credit belongs to PDRN itself. Many of the products on this list also contain well-studied ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide, and retinoids, which have years of evidence to back up their ability to hydrate, smooth, brighten, and plump the skin.
So while the jury is still out on topical PDRN, the supporting cast in these formulas may be doing much of the heavy lifting. Still game to see whether it works for you? The PDRN-infused products our editors and dermatologists keep reaching for.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- Why has PDRN become so popular in Korean skin care specifically?
- Does PDRN skin care actually work?
- What is plant-derived PDRN?
- Is it worth using if you’re already using ingredients like retinol, peptides, or growth factors?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum
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Iope
XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Why it's worth it: Plenty of brands claim to be pushing skin-care innovation forward, but few have the track record to back it up quite like IOPE. Widely recognized as one of the first brands to introduce retinol to the Korean market (Allure’s resident K-beauty expert, commerce editor Sarah Han, is a long-time fan of the brand’s Expert Retinol RX 1% Super Bounce Serum), IOPE once again leans into cutting-edge skin science with its XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum, a formula inspired by the professional PDRN treatments.
The formula features the brand's proprietary PDRN H.A. Liposome Complex, which combines salmon-derived PDRN, micro-molecular hyaluronic acid, and an Allanto Complex—a blend of soothing allantoin, antioxidant-rich spiraeoside, and skin-supporting peptides—to "support barrier repair, refine pores, boost hydration, and even out texture," says Dr. Yoo. In addition, soothing Centella asiatica-derived compounds nourish, calm, and strengthen skin for that coveted glass glow. “Every time I use this serum, I'm reminded that not all PDRN is created equal,” says Charlotte Cho, aesthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum
Sarah Han
Han after applying the IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“This is a delightful serum, all around. I use it in conjunction with my retinol (night) or vitamin C serums (day)—oftentimes both. It's a great hydration booster and gives my skin a noticeable plumping boost compared to when I don't use it. It's super gentle—nothing harsh in there—and the silky gel texture feels great on my skin. It also dries down to a weightless finish, layering well with my moisturizer and sunscreen. I haven't noticed a huge difference in my pore size, which it claims to reduce, but my skin has never looked dewier/glossier… so I'm definitely not complaining. As far as PDRN or hyaluronic acid serums go, this is my favorite by far! It's pricier in terms of Korean skin-care brands, but that's par for the course for IOPE, and I think this clinical-focused brand is totally worth it!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- PDRN type: salmon-derived
- Other key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, spiraeoside, peptides, allantoin, Centella asiatica
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Signs of Early Aging: Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule
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Rejuran
Dual Effect Ampoule
Amazon
Sephora
Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule
Kassidy Silva
Why it's worth it: Rejuran is often credited with putting PDRN on the map. Inspired by the brand's popular in-office skin booster treatments—which have become especially popular in South Korea but, again, aren't available stateside—the Dual Effect Ampoule “ is the closest thing to ‘clinical PDRN skin care’ that you can get, in my opinion,” Marisal Mou, a cosmetic chemist based in New York City, previously told Allure.
The formula stars salmon-derived c-PDRN, the brand’s proprietary version of the ingredient, which can support skin renewal and improves the look of texture and firmness, according to Rejuran. Niacinamide brightens discoloration, refines the appearance of pores, and keeps excess oil in check, while squalane provides lightweight, non-greasy hydration, leaving skin feeling soft and supple. Meanwhile, ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, aloe vera, and licorice root extract strengthen the skin barrier and boost radiance. For that reason, it’s “ideal for mature skin experiencing collagen loss, post-procedure skin,” says Dr. Yoo.
Silva before applying the Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule
Kassidy Silva
Silva before applying the Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule
Kassidy Silva
Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva
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“Rejuran’s PDRN serum is brightness in a bottle. Deep in the throes of toddlerhood, I have been constantly rotating products to help restore my glow and went through many many serums until finding this one. I use about 1/4 of a syringe in my morning routine after applying toner and follow it up with a large dollop of moisturizer, a little eye cream and sunscreen. Around $50, it’s a steal compared to others on the market that I usually gravitate towards.” —Kassidy Silva, social director
More to know
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- PDRN type: salmon-derived
- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, squalane, ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, aloe vera, licorice root
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Uneven Texture: Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+
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Medik8
Exo-PDRN Prismatic+
Medik8
Why it's worth it: If rough texture, lingering post-breakout marks, and dullness are standing between you and your glowiest skin, Medik8’s Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ takes a three-pronged approach. First, there are exosomes, tiny cell-derived messengers that are thought to help skin cells communicate more effectively and support the skin's natural repair processes. Next comes the brand's proprietary Prismatic PDRN, a vegan alternative to traditional salmon-derived PDRN. While Medik8 doesn't disclose its exact source, it says its unique 3D "prismatic", three-dimensional, pyramid-shaped structure is designed to improve absorption and skin penetration.
Finally, the formula relies on Medik8's signature growth factor-inspired technology, including GF MiniProtein and oligopeptide-1, a lab-engineered version of epidermal growth factor (EGF), to support collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, which keep skin looking firm and bouncy. Niacinamide, Centella asiatica, and panthenol further brighten discoloration, calm redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. All told, it’s a high-tech serum loaded with peptides that tackles uneven tone and texture from every angle possible.
Han applying the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from Han
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"Besides one instance of textural preference, I haven't run into a Medik8 product I didn't like. And when peptides and growth factors are involved? Consider me a fan. The Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ has this incredibly silky slip to it that negates tugging, which is great for someone who wants to avoid accelerating fine lines. My skin looks instantly more hydrated and plump with each application—and over the course of a few weeks, I have felt like my skin is a bit smoother overall, which is to say my makeup has also been applying more seamlessly. A big win!" —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- PDRN type: vegan
- Other key ingredients: exosomes, growth factors, niacinamide, Centella asiatica, panthenol, GF MiniProtein, oligopeptide-1
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Hyperpigmentation: Medicube PDRN Peptide Serum
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Medicube
PDRN Peptide Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Allure video producer Lauren Alberti applying the Medicube PDRN Peptide Serum
Lauren Alberti
Why it's worth it: Medicube may have become a household name thanks to its viral beauty devices—our editor in chief is a Booster Pro devotee—but the brand's PDRN Peptide Serum is every bit as buzzworthy. The formula combines salmon-derived PDRN with niacinamide to brighten uneven skin tone and support a healthier-looking complexion, while a blend of peptides works to keep skin looking firmer and smoother. Sodium hyaluronate delivers a boost of hydration, and antioxidant-rich ingredients like CoQ10, turmeric, and rose extract round out the formula. One thing to note: Medicube also makes a version featuring rose-derived PDRN, so be sure to double-check the packaging.
According to Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont, "while salmon-derived PDRN remains the most extensively studied form,” most of that research has been conducted in petri dishes or other preclinical settings rather than in studies evaluating topical use on human skin. At the same time, "rose-derived PDRN is gaining popularity as a plant-based alternative that may offer additional antioxidant benefits."
Tester feedback from video producer Lauren Alberti
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“I've been using this product for the last few months as part of my never-ending battle against dry skin. After a few uses, I could see that this was definitely contributing to more hydrated-looking skin, helping me achieve that dewy glow.” —Lauren Alberti, video producer
More to know
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- PDRN type: salmon-derived
- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, adenosine, peptides, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, rose extract, turmeric, holy basil
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Dry Skin: Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist
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Anua
PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure contributing writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: If all it took to win us over were looking like a tiny bottle of mermaid water, Anua's PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist would have sealed the deal—but the formula gives us real results to love. Suspended throughout the formula are hydrating capsules packed with 2,000 ppm (about 0.2%) of salmon-derived PDRN, alongside three forms of hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed collagen to help skin look plumper, bouncier, and well-hydrated. Sensitive skin types will appreciate the formula's barrier-supporting ingredients. Panthenol, allantoin, ceramides, aloe, and jojoba oil calm and moisturize skin, while peptides and adenosine support a smoother, healthier-looking complexion. What really keeps us reaching for it, though, is the application. The spray is so ultra-fine that it layers seamlessly under or over makeup, delivering a weightless boost of hydration without leaving foundation streaky, patchy, or disturbed. That makes it perfect for anyone “who wants tons of hydration, plumpness, and glow,” says Dr. Yoo. (So, everyone.)
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“I use it solo when I'm feeling dry, layer it under moisturizer, or pair it with Anua’s PDRN Collagen Melting Patch—as I did in the video above—for a mini mask moment. The formula is so lightweight I barely notice it's there, but the glass-skin glow is evidence that I’ve been using this regularly.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- PDRN type: salmon-derived
- Other key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, panthenol, allantoin, ceramides, aloe, jojoba oil, copper tripeptide-1
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Plant-Derived: Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum
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Knours
PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Soko Glam
Allure former senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum
Sarah Felbin
Why it's worth it: If the idea of salmon-derived PDRN isn't quite your thing, Knours offers a plant-powered alternative. Though sourced from plants or microbial fermentation, phyto-PDRN appears to trigger the same pathways involved in skin repair, inflammation regulation, and collagen production as salmon-derived PDRN (we dive deeper below). Its PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum features PDRN sourced from rice and green tea, alongside a lineup of ingredients designed to hydrate, brighten, and support healthier-looking skin. Niacinamide evens tone, while rice ferment filtrate, rice bran water, and amino acids nourish skin and boost radiance. Multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, along with polyglutamic acid, deliver deep, lasting hydration, while panthenol and ceramides strengthen the skin barrier.
Felbin before applying the Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum
Sarah Felbin
Felbin after applying the Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum
Sarah Felbin
Tester feedback from former senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
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“I'll admit, I was a PDRN skeptic before I found this serum. I wasn't sure what PDRN could do for my skin that I wasn't already getting from my other products—but Knours sealed the deal for me. This one is super thin and lightweight—it sinks in quickly and doesn't feel sticky once it absorbs. It feels so soothing on the skin, and I really notice the brightening effects both immediately after I apply it and the next morning. My sensitive skin drinks it right up and feels so hydrated after each use. I already know I'll be purchasing another bottle once this one runs out. My only hangup is that the dropper is finicky—it can be tricky to control how much product comes out by using the button on top of the dropper, so I do wish it had a regular squeeze dropper instead. But honestly, it's a small price to pay for a serum I love so much!” —Sarah Felbin, former senior commerce editor
More to know
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- PDRN type: rice- and green tea-derived
- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, rice ferment filtrate, rice bran water, amino acids, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, panthenol, ceramides
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Fine Lines: Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum
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Haruharu Wonder
Rose PDRN Firming Serum with Retinal
Amazon
Yesstyle
Lee applying the Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: While Haruharu Wonder (whose name means "day by day" in Korean, a nod to the idea that small, consistent habits can add up to meaningful results over time) is still more of an up-and-coming player in the US market, products like its Rose PDRN Firming Serum are helping the brand build a loyal following. The formula centers on rose-derived PDRN, which "has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative effects comparable to those of fish-derived PDRN," says Backman. Those skin-repairing benefits are paired with 0.1% retinal, a potent vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover, softens the appearance of fine lines, and improves uneven texture, making it a particularly good fit for gently addressing early signs of aging. Niacinamide, Centella asiatica, ceramides, and peptides further support the skin barrier while promoting firmer, brighter-looking skin. Despite its impressive lineup of actives, the serum feels elegant on the skin—slightly more viscous than your average serum, yet quick to absorb and effortless to layer.
Tester feedback from Lee
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“This is a really solid option if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly PDRN/retinal serum that plays nicely with sensitive skin. I use a refrigerated prescription tretinoin, so on nights I’m too lazy to go back downstairs to grab it (which is pretty much 5 out of 7 nights), this is one of the gentler serums I keep in rotation. The texture is spot-on—not too watery, not heavy—and it absorbs instantly without any stickiness. It feels comfortable the second it hits skin, and I haven't experienced any irritation in the two weeks I've been using it.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- PDRN type: rose-derived
- Other key ingredients: 0.1% retinal, Centella asiatica, peptides, ceramides, adenosine
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Eyes & Lips: Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum
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Innisfree
Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Felbin applying the Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum
Sarah Felbin
Why it's worth it: Instead of salmon-derived PDRN, the formula relies on 15% Green Tea PDRN, which comes with its own skin-soothing advantages. "Green tea-derived PDRN pairs naturally with anti-inflammatory catechins and EGCG," says Backman; in other words, green tea itself is rich in antioxidant compounds that can calm irritation and defend against environmental stressors. Squalane, shea butter, and nourishing plant oils like sunflower and soybean oils provide the lightweight hydration you'd expect from a traditional lip balm or eye serum, but with the added benefit of ingredients that actively target wrinkles and loss of firmness: The brand's proprietary Green Tea Exosomes and peptide complex improve the look of elasticity, while a 1% encapsulated retinol complex smooths fine lines and refines texture.
“This may be a good option for someone who doesn’t typically tolerate retinoids but still wants the smoothing and firming benefits they offer, particularly in delicate areas of the face,” says Dr. Yoo. “The addition of green tea and PDRN may counteract potential irritation and support skin recovery.” Apply this multitasker around the eyes to address crow's feet, around the mouth to soften the appearance of smile lines, and directly onto the lips as a treatment. For daytime, swap it for (or top it with) a lip balm with SPF.
Felbin before applying the Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum
Sarah Felbin
Felbin after applying the Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum
Sarah Felbin
Tester feedback from Felbin
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“Sometimes, serums can be unpleasantly sticky or greasy—not the case with this one from Innisfree. It's soft, lightweight, and only takes a few seconds to sink in. Underneath the eyes, it makes an excellent makeup primer, keeping my skin hydrated all day so my concealer doesn't crease as much. But it secures real MVP status when it comes to lips: It's the only product that has made a difference in my chronically chapped lips. In the morning, I apply it before my lipstick or lip gloss, for soft, smooth lips all day long. Then, at night, I layer it underneath a lip mask for extra protection. If you want to get into PDRN but aren't sure where to start, I highly recommend picking up a tube!” — Felbin, former senior commerce editor
More to know
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- PDRN type: green tea-derived
- Other key ingredients: squalane, shea butter, sunflower oils, soybean oils, Green Tea Exosomes, peptides, 1% encapsulated retinol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Other PDRN skin-care products we love:
Best Mask: Biodance Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask
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Biodance
Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask
Amazon
Sephora
Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman wearing and removing the Biodance Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask
Katie Gunderman
Why it's worth it: Most PDRN skin-care products put the spotlight on salmon sperm DNA fragments, but Biodance takes a more decadent-sounding approach. The Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask combines PDRN with salmon egg extract and 600,000 ppm (60%) Caviar Complex—a blend of proteins, lipids, amino acids, and fatty acids. While the caviar isn't an additional source of the PDRN itself, it may provide additional conditioning and skin-nourishing benefits, says Backman. "The added value comes from the caviar extract's protein-and-lipid complex, not because it’s a superior DNA fragment," she adds. In other words, the caviar isn't there to create a superior form of PDRN—it's there to complement it. While PDRN may target skin recovery, the caviar complex contributes claims to leave skin feeling softer, smoother, and more supple. Rounded out with niacinamide, soothing allantoin, and moisturizing shea butter, this overnight hydrogel mask has all the heavy-hitters you need to encourage plumper skin by morning.
Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman
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“The Biodance Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask is so hydrating and always gives my skin such relief when its feeling extra dry. Because you can wear this while you sleep in, its the perfect mask to throw on when you need a deep reset. I always wake up looking extra glowy and firm after using it.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager
More to know
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- PDRN type: salmon-derived
- Other key ingredients: caviar, niacinamide, allantoin, shea butter
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Toner Pads: Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad
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Mediheal
PDRN Lifting Pad
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto using the Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad
Alessandra Foresto
Why it's worth it: Instead of covering your entire face like a traditional sheet mask, Mediheal’s PDRN Lifting Pads can be swiped across skin as a treatment toner or placed on areas prone to sagging or fine lines—such as the cheeks, jawline, or forehead—for a quick, targeted mini-mask treatment. The formula stars rose-derived PDRN paired with niacinamide and glutathione to brighten dullness, adenosine and peptides to soften the appearance of fine lines, and barrier-supporting hydrators like panthenol, ectoin, squalane, betaine, and allantoin. If you're prone to congestion or breakouts, there’s also gluconolactone (PHA) to provide gentle exfoliation, smooth texture, and keep pores clear—without the irritation that can come with stronger acids.
Foresto before using the Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad
Alessandra Foresto
Foresto after using the Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad
Alessandra Foresto
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
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“I find this formula has the perfect balance of ingredients for my combination skin—I have eczema but also get breakouts on my T-zone. I find these pads pretty moisturizing (I see glycerin and squalane in the ingredient list, as well as panthenol and allantoin) and they are a nice first step for my dry skin. They also claim to fight acne and tighten pores (they contain niacinamide), and I can see that they have definitely reduced the amount of breakouts I've had in the past few weeks. While I have yet to see a clear difference in lifting, they do have some firming and smoothing ingredients said to fight fine lines with repeat use, so I'll keep swiping these pads on twice a day for now! The spatula to pick up the pads is kind of genius. It has little spikes that make it easier to pick up a single pad.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor
More to know
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- PDRN type: rose-derived
- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, glutathione, adenosine, peptides, panthenol, ectoin, squalane, betaine, allantoin, gluconolactone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Moisturizer: Arencia Deep Water Surge Serum 30
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Arencia
Deep Water Surge Hydrating Serum 30
Sephora
Why it's worth it: Arencia’s Deep Water Surge Hydrating Serum 30 has the bouncy, cloud-like texture of a gel moisturizer—it's even housed in a jar—but delivers the concentrated ingredient lineup and quick absorption you'd expect from a serum. Plant-derived PDRN purports to soothe skin and supports a healthy moisture barrier, while eight forms of hyaluronic acid that drench skin with hydration at multiple levels. Ceramides, panthenol, and squalane lock in moisture, while niacinamide brightens and supports an even skin tone. It also features copper tripeptide-1 and several signal peptides—ingredients that essentially act as messengers, helping tell skin to ramp up processes associated with collagen production and repair. It’s especially well-suited for dehydrated, dull, or early aging skin that wants serious hydration and a firmer, bouncier look without the weight of a traditional cream.
Lee applying the Arencia Deep Water Surge Serum 30
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Arencia Deep Water Surge Serum 30
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
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“K-beauty never fails to surprise me when it comes to texture, and Arencia's Deep Water Surge Hydrating Serum is a great example. It's technically a serum, but when you open the jar, it's definitely more like a bouncy, Jell-O-like gel moisturizer. As someone with perpetually dry skin, I wasn't convinced something so lightweight could give my skin the hydration I need—but I was wrong! The cushiony texture melts in right away and keeps moisture locked in." —Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- PDRN type: plant-derived
- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, glutathione, adenosine, peptides, panthenol, ectoin, squalane, betaine, allantoin, gluconolactone
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has PDRN become so popular in Korean skin care specifically?
The rise of PDRN in Korean skin care is a natural extension of what K-beauty does best, which is "translating clinic-adjacent ingredients and procedures into consumer skin care,” says Dr. Yoo. And PDRN fits perfectly into Korea's long-standing fascination with injectable skin boosters and post-procedure skin repair. As injectable PDRN treatments have gained popularity in dermatology clinics, topical PDRN serums, creams, and masks have followed, giving consumers a way to incorporate the ingredient into their daily routines.
Does PDRN skin care actually work?
Experts caution that the science behind topical PDRN remains largely theoretical. While injectable PDRN has been studied for wound healing and tissue repair, there are currently no robust human clinical trials demonstrating that PDRN delivers the same benefits when applied topically in skin-care products. Most of the research has been conducted in laboratory settings, with PDRN applied directly to cells in petri dishes. According to Romanowski, this means that just because an ingredient shows promise in cell cultures doesn't mean it will perform the same way once it's formulated into a serum or cream and applied to skin.
Another major question is whether PDRN molecules are even capable of penetrating the skin deeply enough to reach the receptors they're purported to target. "There's a principle in skin care that something can only penetrate your skin if it's small enough—typically 500 daltons," Romanowski explains. PDRN fragments are significantly larger than that threshold, raising questions about how much can actually reach the dermis, where these cellular interactions would need to occur. As Dr. Yoo notes, "the efficacy differs between PDRN in over-the-counter products and injectables," meaning topical PDRN products shouldn't be viewed as interchangeable with those in-office treatments (which again, are not FDA-approved stateside).
What is plant-derived PDRN?
Plant-derived PDRN—sometimes marketed as "phyto-PDRN" or "vegan PDRN"—“uses DNA fragments sourced from botanicals such as rice, green tea, ginseng, and rose, as well as through microbial biotechnology and fermentation,” says Backman. While the molecule comes from a different biological source and its DNA fragment profile may differ from traditional salmon-derived PDRN, she notes that "based on available research, plant PDRN appears to work through the same A2A receptor mechanism as salmon-derived PDRN." In other words, it appears to activate the same pathways involved in skin repair, wound healing, inflammation regulation, and collagen production, meaning it may deliver many of the same skin-repairing and regenerative benefits despite coming from an entirely different source.
Is it worth using if you’re already using ingredients like retinol, peptides, or growth factors?
If you're already using retinol, peptides, vitamin C, or other proven actives, think of PDRN as a complementary ingredient rather than a replacement. "Retinoids remain the gold standard and have stronger evidence for collagen remodeling and photoaging," says Dr. Yoo. In fact, the dermatologists and cosmetic chemists we spoke with consistently pointed to ingredients like retinoids, peptides, vitamin C, and niacinamide as having far stronger evidence for improving skin over time. Retinoids, in particular, are backed by decades of research showing they can stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of photoaging.
That's also why you'll often find those ingredients listed right alongside PDRN in product formulas. "That's essentially how skin care works," Romanowski previously told Allure. The ingredients that help "tell a story" are often paired with tried-and-true workhorses that actually deliver many of the visible benefits. While Dr. Yoo notes that PDRN may help support other actives through hydration, barrier repair, and recovery, experts say it's difficult to know how much of a formula's results can be attributed to PDRN itself. Bottom line? PDRN's popularity is outpacing the available research, so while you can try it, your best bet for results is to seek out a formula that pairs PDRN with tried-and-true actives.
Meet the experts
- Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont
- Charlotte Cho, aesthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City
- Kelly Dobos, a Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut
- Marisal Mou, a cosmetic chemist based in New York City
- Perry Romanowski, a Chicago-based cosmetic chemist
- Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best PDRN serums, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
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