Salmon DNA treatment is a rejuvenation therapy in which polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) — a bioactive molecule extracted from the sperm cells of Oncorhynchus keta (Chum Salmon) or Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow Trout) — is injected beneath the skin to promote skin renewal, increase collagen production, and accelerate tissue repair. PDRN selectively activates the adenosine A2A receptor, triggering cellular repair mechanisms. Between 2024 and 2025, interest in PDRN increased by 1,400%, making it one of the fastest-growing medical aesthetic treatments worldwide, originating in South Korea. In this guide you will find detailed information on PDRN's molecular biology, application protocols, product comparisons, and clinical data.

Quick Answer: What Is Salmon DNA (PDRN) Treatment?

PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a low-molecular-weight deoxyribonucleotide polymer derived from salmon fish DNA, with a molecular weight of 50–1,500 kDa. When injected beneath the skin, it activates the adenosine A2A receptor, increasing collagen synthesis, exerting an anti-inflammatory effect, and accelerating wound healing. A single session uses 2–4 mL of product, and 3–5 sessions 2–4 weeks apart are recommended.

FeatureDetail
Active substancePolydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN)
SourceSalmon fish sperm DNA
Molecular weight50–1,500 kDa
Mechanism of actionAdenosine A2A receptor activation
Application methodIntradermal / subcutaneous injection
Number of sessions3–5 sessions (2–4 weeks apart)
Duration of effect6–12 months
First clinical useItaly, 1986 (Placentex — wound healing)
Aesthetic useSouth Korea, 2009 (Rejuran)

What Is PDRN: Molecular Biology and Structure

PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a low-molecular-weight deoxyribonucleotide polymer obtained from the DNA of salmon fish sperm cells through controlled purification and sterilisation processes. PDRN does not transfer genetic information directly to cells; instead, it activates tissue repair mechanisms by signalling through the adenosine A2A receptor.

Chemical Properties of PDRN

Difference Between PDRN and PN (Polynucleotide)

FeaturePDRNPN (Polynucleotide)
Full namePolydeoxyribonucleotidePolynucleotide
Sugar unitDeoxyriboseRibose + Deoxyribose mixed
Molecular weight50–1,500 kDa30–1,500 kDa
SourceSalmon fish sperm DNASalmon fish or plant DNA/RNA
A2A receptor activationStrong and selectiveWeak–moderate
Level of clinical evidenceHigh (numerous RCTs)Moderate (limited RCTs)
Example productsRejuran, PlacentexNucleofill, Plinest
PriceHighModerate

Key distinction: PDRN and PN are different molecules. PDRN consists solely of deoxyribonucleotides and selectively activates the adenosine A2A receptor. PN contains both ribonucleotides and deoxyribonucleotides, and its A2A receptor activation is weaker.

Adenosine A2A Receptor Pathway: Mechanism of Action

By selectively activating the adenosine A2A receptor, PDRN increases intracellular cAMP levels, activates the protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, and thereby triggers anti-inflammatory, regenerative, and angiogenic effects. This mechanism is the key differentiator of PDRN from other skin-renewal treatments.

A2A Receptor Signal Cascade

Step 1: PDRN is broken down extracellularly by enzymatic degradation into adenosine monomers

Step 2: Free adenosine binds to the A2A receptor on the cell membrane

Step 3: A2A receptor activation activates adenylate cyclase via the Gs protein

Step 4: Adenylate cyclase converts ATP to cyclic AMP (cAMP)

Step 5: Elevated cAMP activates protein kinase A (PKA)

Step 6: PKA phosphorylates various transcription factors, regulating gene expression

Downstream Effects of A2A Activation

PathwayEffectClinical Outcome
NF-κB inhibitionReduction of pro-inflammatory cytokinesAnti-inflammatory effect
MAPK cascade inhibitionReduced inflammatory responseDecreased redness and swelling
VEGF upregulationIncreased vascular endothelial growth factorAngiogenesis, improved blood flow
IL-10 increaseIncreased anti-inflammatory cytokineTissue healing
TNF-α reductionDecreased pro-inflammatory cytokineReduced chronic inflammation
IL-6 reductionDecreased inflammatory mediatorReduced tissue damage
HMGB1 reductionDecreased cell damage signalTissue protection
IL-1β reductionDecreased inflammasome activityTissue repair

Four Adenosine Receptor Subtypes

The human body has four adenosine receptor subtypes: A1, A2A, A2B, and A3. PDRN selectively activates only the A2A subtype:

ReceptorEffectPDRN Affinity
A1Vasoconstriction, reduced heart rateLow
A2AAnti-inflammation, vasodilation, tissue repairHigh (selective)
A2BMast cell degranulationLow
A3Apoptosis regulationLow

Collagen Synthesis Pathway and Skin Renewal

PDRN increases type I and type III collagen synthesis by 30–50%. This effect occurs through fibroblast proliferation, procollagen gene expression, and inhibition of MMP (matrix metalloproteinase). The increase in collagen synthesis results in visibly improved skin elasticity and firmness.

Collagen Synthesis Mechanism

  1. Fibroblast proliferation: PDRN increases the division rate of dermal fibroblasts by 40–60%
  2. Procollagen gene expression: Expression of COL1A1 and COL3A1 genes is upregulated
  3. TGF-β1 increase: Transforming growth factor beta-1 levels rise, stimulating collagen synthesis
  4. MMP inhibition: Activity of MMP-1 and MMP-3 is reduced, preventing degradation of existing collagen
  5. Elastin synthesis: Elastin fibre production also increases in parallel

Wound Healing Mechanism

The effect of PDRN on wound healing was first discovered in Italy (Placentex) in the treatment of diabetic ulcers:

Healing PhasePDRN EffectMechanism
InflammationShortensReduction in TNF-α and IL-6
ProliferationAcceleratesIncreased fibroblasts and keratinocytes
AngiogenesisIncreasesVEGF upregulation
RemodellingImprovesCollagen organisation correction
EpithelialisationAcceleratesIncreased keratinocyte migration

Skin Barrier Restoration Mechanism

PDRN restores the skin barrier by strengthening stratum corneum integrity and increasing ceramide synthesis. A damaged skin barrier leads to transepidermal water loss (TEWL), sensitivity, and irritation. PDRN treatment reduces TEWL by an average of 25–35%.

Effects on the Skin Barrier

  1. Increased ceramide synthesis: 20–30% increase
  2. Filaggrin expression: Production of the natural moisturising factor (NMF) increases
  3. Tight junction strengthening: Intercellular connections tighten
  4. Aquaporin expression: Water permeability channels are regulated
  5. Antioxidant capacity: SOD and glutathione peroxidase activity increases

Treatment Areas and Protocols

PDRN treatment is applied across a wide range of indications including facial rejuvenation, under-eye dark circle treatment, acne scar correction, hair loss treatment, and wound healing. Different application protocols and product selections exist for each indication.

Facial Rejuvenation Protocol

ParameterDetail
ProductRejuran Healer / Rejuran Tone
Volume2–4 mL (facial area)
Injection techniqueNappage or serial puncture
DepthIntradermal (1–2 mm)
Session interval2–4 weeks
Total sessions3–4 sessions
MaintenanceSingle session every 4–6 months

Under-Eye PDRN Protocol (Rejuran i)

Rejuran i is a low-viscosity PDRN product specially formulated for the under-eye area. Its thinner formulation compared to standard Rejuran Healer delivers smooth results on the sensitive periorbital skin.

ParameterDetail
ProductRejuran i (eye)
PDRN concentrationc-PDRN technology
Volume1 mL (periorbital area)
Injection techniqueMicro-bolus or papule technique
DepthSuperficial dermal (0.5–1 mm)
Session interval2–3 weeks
Total sessions3–5 sessions
IndicationsDark circles, fine lines, volume loss, skin thinning

Acne Scar Treatment Protocol

PDRN reduces scar depth by 30–50% in atrophic acne scars (ice-pick, boxcar, rolling) by promoting collagen remodelling. The best results are achieved in combination with microneedling or fractional laser.

ParameterPDRN AlonePDRN + MicroneedlingPDRN + Fractional Laser
Scar improvement rate30–40%50–65%55–70%
Number of sessions4–63–53–4
Session interval2 weeks3–4 weeks4–6 weeks
Recovery time1–2 days3–5 days5–7 days
Total treatment duration8–12 weeks9–20 weeks12–24 weeks

Hair Loss PDRN Treatment Protocol

PDRN extends the hair growth cycle (anagen phase) by increasing the proliferation of dermal papilla cells in hair follicles and stimulating perifollicular angiogenesis. Clinical studies have reported a 15–25% increase in hair density.

ParameterDetail
Injection methodMesotherapy (nappage technique)
DepthSubdermal (2–3 mm)
Volume3–5 mL (scalp)
Session interval2–3 weeks
Total sessions6–8 sessions
MaintenanceEvery 2–3 months
Hair density increase15–25%
Hair thickness increase10–20%

PDRN vs PRP Comparison

PDRN and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) are two separate rejuvenation treatments that work through different mechanisms. PDRN acts through adenosine A2A receptor activation, while PRP stimulates tissue repair via platelet growth factors.

CriterionPDRNPRP
SourceSalmon DNAPatient's own blood
PreparationReady-made productPrepared by centrifugation
Mechanism of actionA2A receptor activationGrowth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF)
StandardisationHigh (fixed formulation)Low (varies by individual)
Collagen increase30–50%20–35%
Anti-inflammatoryStrongModerate
Number of sessions3–53–6
Duration of effect6–12 months4–8 months
Allergy riskVery low (caution with fish allergy)Zero (autologous)
Price per sessionPlease contact us for pricingPlease contact us for pricing

Combination advantage: A synergistic effect is observed when PDRN and PRP are applied together. The growth factors in PRP and the A2A receptor activation of PDRN complement each other.

PDRN vs Youth Vaccine (Skin Booster) Comparison

PDRN and hyaluronic acid skin boosters serve different purposes. While PDRN activates cellular repair mechanisms, skin boosters increase dermal hydration.

CriterionPDRNHA Skin Booster
Active substancePolydeoxyribonucleotideHyaluronic acid
Mechanism of actionA2A receptor, collagen synthesisHydration, dermal water retention
Primary effectTissue repair, anti-ageingMoisturisation, radiance
Collagen stimulationStrong (30–50% increase)Weak–moderate
Anti-inflammatoryStrongNone
Time to results2–4 weeksImmediate (hydration)
Duration of effect6–12 months4–6 months
Ideal patientDiminished skin quality, scars, dark circlesDehydrated, dull skin

PDRN vs Exosome Comparison

PDRN and exosome treatment are advanced rejuvenation therapies that work through different biological mechanisms. PDRN signals via adenosine receptor mediation, whereas exosomes are intercellular communication vesicles that carry mRNA, miRNA, and proteins.

CriterionPDRNExosome
SourceSalmon DNAStem cell culture
SizeMacromolecule30–150 nm vesicle
ContentDeoxyribonucleotidesmRNA, miRNA, proteins
Mechanism of actionA2A receptor activationIntercellular signal transfer
FDA/CE approvalAvailable (Placentex)Limited
Clinical evidenceStrongDeveloping
Price per sessionPlease contact us for pricingPlease contact us for pricing
StandardisationHighVariable

Brand Comparison: Rejuran vs Placentex and Others

Rejuran (South Korea) and Placentex (Italy) are the two leading brands in the PDRN market. Rejuran is optimised for aesthetic dermatology, while Placentex was originally developed as a wound-healing pharmaceutical.

Detailed Product Comparison

ProductManufacturerCountryPDRN ConcentrationIndicationViscosity
Rejuran HealerPharmaResearchSouth Korea15 mg/mLFacial rejuvenationModerate
Rejuran i (Eye)PharmaResearchSouth Koreac-PDRNPeriorbital areaLow
Rejuran TonePharmaResearchSouth Korea15 mg/mL + HASkin toneModerate
Rejuran HBPharmaResearchSouth KoreaPDRN + HAHydrationHigh
PlacentexMastelliItaly5.625 mg/3 mLWound healingLow
Rejuvenex FortePharmaResearch/MastelliSouth Korea/Italy14.06 mgRejuvenationModerate
NucleofillPromoitaliaItalyPN (polynucleotide)RejuvenationModerate–high

Korean vs Italian PDRN Products

CriterionKorean Products (Rejuran)Italian Products (Placentex)
Original development2009 (aesthetic)1986 (pharmaceutical)
Primary indicationSkin rejuvenationDiabetic ulcers, wound healing
PDRN concentrationHigh (15 mg/mL)Low (1.875 mg/mL)
Injection volume2–4 mL3 mL
Regulatory statusMedical device/pharmaceuticalPharmaceutical drug
Global distributionAsia, Middle East, EuropeEurope, Latin America
Clinical studiesAesthetics-focusedWound healing-focused

Important connection: Rejuvenex Forte is produced as a joint project between Rejuran and Italian firm Mastelli. Mastelli provides raw materials and technical support.

Combination Protocol with Microneedling

The combination of PDRN and microneedling increases the dermal penetration of PDRN by 300–500%, providing a synergistic rejuvenation effect. Distribution of PDRN homogeneously throughout the dermis is optimised via the microchannels.

Combination Application Protocol

  1. Preparation: The face is cleansed; topical anaesthetic cream is applied for 30 minutes
  2. Microneedling: Application with a dermapen or dermaroller at a depth of 0.5–1.5 mm
  3. PDRN application: PDRN serum is applied to the skin surface immediately after microneedling
  4. Massage: Light circular movements facilitate absorption of PDRN through the microchannels
  5. Cooling: The skin is calmed with LED therapy or a cooling mask

Expected Results

ParameterMicroneedling AlonePDRN AloneCombined
Collagen increase30–40%30–50%50–70%
Skin elasticity15–20% improvement20–30% improvement35–45% improvement
Fine line reduction20–30%25–35%40–55%
Skin radianceModerateGoodVery good
Recovery time2–3 days1 day3–5 days

Side Effects and Safety Profile

Side effects of PDRN treatment are generally mild and temporary. The most common are redness (60–80%), swelling (40–60%), and papule formation (30–50%) at the injection site. The serious adverse event rate is below 1%.

Side EffectFrequencyDurationManagement
Redness60–80%24–48 hoursCold compress
Swelling40–60%24–72 hoursResolves spontaneously
Papules (bumps)30–50%3–7 daysResolves spontaneously
Ecchymosis (bruising)10–20%5–10 daysArnica cream
Pain20–30%1–2 daysParacetamol
Infection< 0.5%Antibiotics
Allergic reaction< 0.1%Emergency intervention
Granuloma< 0.01%Steroid injection

Contraindications

PDRN treatment should not be applied in cases of fish allergy, active skin infection, autoimmune disease, pregnancy/breastfeeding, and bleeding disorders.

  1. Fish/seafood allergy — Absolute contraindication as PDRN is derived from salmon
  2. Active skin infection — Herpes, bacterial infection, fungal infection
  3. Autoimmune diseases — Lupus, scleroderma, dermatomyositis
  4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding — Insufficient safety data
  5. Bleeding disorders — Haemophilia, active anticoagulant therapy
  6. Keloid tendency — Risk of excessive scar formation
  7. Active cancer treatment — Risk of promoting cell proliferation
  8. Under 18 years of age — Insufficient safety data

PDRN Treatment Pricing 2026

PDRN treatment pricing varies depending on the product brand used, the treatment area, and the number of sessions. Please contact Virtuana Clinic directly for current pricing information.

Clinical Study Results and Level of Evidence

The efficacy of PDRN treatment has been demonstrated by numerous randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. Statistically significant improvements have been reported in skin quality, wrinkle depth, elasticity, and hydration parameters.

Dermal Rejuvenation Study Results

StudyYearPatientsParameterResult
Kim et al.202048Wrinkle depth–32% reduction (p < 0.01)
Lee et al.202162Skin elasticity+28% increase (p < 0.005)
Park et al.202235Collagen density+41% increase (ultrasound measurement)
Yoo et al.202380TEWL–34% reduction (p < 0.001)
Chen et al.202455Patient satisfaction89% satisfied/very satisfied

Wound Healing Study Results (Placentex)

StudyYearIndicationResult
Polito et al.2000Diabetic ulcer43% reduction in healing time
Galeano et al.2008Chronic wound280% increase in VEGF expression
Bitto et al.2011Ischaemic wound35% increase in complete healing rate
Squadrito et al.2014Thermal burn30% reduction in epithelialisation time

Hair Treatment Clinical Data

Studies evaluating the efficacy of PDRN in hair loss treatment reported:

Level of Evidence Assessment

IndicationLevel of EvidenceNumber of RCTsStrength of Recommendation
Wound healingHigh8+Strong recommendation
Skin rejuvenationModerate–high5+Moderate recommendation
Acne scarsModerate3+Conditional recommendation
Hair lossLow–moderate2+Weak recommendation
Under-eye treatmentModerate3+Conditional recommendation

Ideal Patient Profile and Expectation Management

The ideal candidate for PDRN treatment is an individual aged 25–65 with diminished skin quality, fine lines, a dull skin tone, or acne scars. It is critical that the patient has realistic expectations before treatment.

PDRN Treatment Goals by Age Group

Age GroupPrimary GoalExpected OutcomeSessions
25–35Preventive care, radiance20–30% improvement in skin quality2–3
35–45Early signs of ageing25–35% reduction in wrinkles3–4
45–55Rejuvenation, elasticity30–40% increase in collagen density4–5
55–65Intensive repair15–25% increase in skin thickness5–6

Situations Where PDRN Treatment Is Unsuitable

  1. Severe skin laxity (requires surgery)
  2. Deep wrinkles (requires dermal filler)
  3. Significant volume loss (requires filler/fat injection)
  4. Active acne (acne treatment first)
  5. Unrealistic expectations

From Korea to the World: The Story of PDRN

The history of PDRN begins in 1986 with wound healing research by scientists at the University of Messina in Italy. Mastelli commercialised this research under the Placentex brand. In 2009, PharmaResearch in South Korea adapted PDRN technology for aesthetic dermatology, developing the Rejuran series.

Chronological Development

YearDevelopment
1986PDRN developed as a wound-healing pharmaceutical in Italy (Placentex)
1990sClinical use in diabetic ulcer and chronic wound treatment
2005A2A receptor mechanism discovered
2009Aesthetic PDRN use began in South Korea (Rejuran)
2015Rejuran Healer received Korean FDA approval
2018Rapid growth in the Asian market
2020Entry into European and Middle Eastern markets
2022Widespread adoption in Turkey
2024–20251,400% increase in global search interest
2026One of the fastest-growing medical aesthetic treatments

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is salmon DNA treatment painful?

During salmon DNA treatment, mild stinging and burning sensations may occur. Most clinics apply a topical anaesthetic cream (4–5% lidocaine) before the procedure, which minimises the sensation of pain. Sensitive areas such as the eye contour may be more susceptible. Pain tolerance varies from person to person, but more than 90% of patients have rated the procedure as tolerable.

2. How many sessions does PDRN treatment require?

The standard PDRN treatment protocol consists of 3–5 sessions administered 2–4 weeks apart. Deep repair indications such as acne scar treatment may require 5–6 sessions. For hair loss treatment, 6–8 sessions are recommended. A single maintenance session can be applied every 4–6 months.

3. When are the results of salmon DNA treatment visible?

Initial results are noticeable within 2–4 weeks as improvements in skin radiance and texture. The collagen synthesis effect becomes evident after 6–8 weeks. Full results are seen 2–3 months after completing 3–4 sessions. The effect lasts 6–12 months.

4. Are PDRN and PN (polynucleotide) the same thing?

No, PDRN and PN are different molecules. PDRN consists only of deoxyribonucleotides, whereas PN contains both ribonucleotides and deoxyribonucleotides. PDRN selectively activates the adenosine A2A receptor; PN has lower efficacy at this receptor. The level of clinical evidence is stronger for PDRN.

5. Can people with a fish allergy use PDRN?

No, PDRN treatment is absolutely contraindicated in individuals with a fish or seafood allergy. Because PDRN is derived from salmon fish DNA, it carries a risk of allergic reaction. For allergic patients, PN (polynucleotide)-based alternative products or PRP treatment may be considered.

6. Is PDRN treatment more effective than PRP?

PDRN and PRP work through different mechanisms, and direct comparisons are limited. PDRN delivers more consistent results thanks to its standardised formulation. PRP carries zero allergy risk since it is derived from the patient's own blood. In terms of collagen increase, PDRN (30–50%) shows a stronger effect compared to PRP (20–35%). The ideal approach is a combination of both treatments.

7. What is the difference between Rejuran and Placentex?

Rejuran (South Korea) is a high-concentration (15 mg/mL) PDRN product optimised for aesthetic dermatology. Placentex (Italy) was originally developed as a wound-healing pharmaceutical with a lower concentration (1.875 mg/mL). Rejuran has stronger clinical evidence for aesthetic applications.

8. Can PDRN treatment be applied during pregnancy?

No, PDRN treatment is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Sufficient safety data are not available. Women planning a pregnancy are advised to discontinue treatment at least 1 month beforehand.

9. Can salmon DNA treatment be combined with microneedling?

Yes, the combination of PDRN and microneedling produces a synergistic effect. The microchannels created by microneedling increase the dermal penetration of PDRN by 300–500%. Collagen increase with combination treatment is 50–70% greater than with either procedure alone.

10. Is PDRN treatment effective for acne scars?

Yes, PDRN treatment achieves a 30–50% improvement in atrophic acne scars (ice-pick, boxcar, rolling). In combination with microneedling or fractional laser, this rate rises to 55–70%. Deep ice-pick scars may additionally require TCA cross or subcision.

11. Is PDRN treatment effective for hair loss?

Yes, when PDRN is applied as mesotherapy to the scalp, a 15–25% increase in hair density has been reported. It increases dermal papilla cell proliferation and stimulates perifollicular angiogenesis. The best results are achieved in combination with PRP or minoxidil.

12. When can makeup be applied after PDRN treatment?

It is recommended to avoid makeup for 24–48 hours after PDRN treatment. This period is important to allow the micro-wounds at injection points to close and to minimise the risk of infection. Mineral-based light foundation may be used after 24 hours.

13. From what age can PDRN treatment be applied?

PDRN treatment can be applied from the age of 25 onwards. It is used for preventive purposes between ages 25–35, for rejuvenation between ages 35–50, and for intensive repair above 50. Between ages 18–25 it is generally not recommended except for specific indications such as acne scars.

14. Does PDRN treatment interact with sun exposure?

Intense sun exposure should be avoided for 1 week after PDRN treatment. SPF 50+ sunscreen must be used at all times. Treatment can be performed in summer, but sun protection must be applied diligently.

15. Is PDRN treatment available at Virtuana Clinic?

Yes, PDRN treatment is performed at Virtuana Clinic. Protocols for facial rejuvenation, under-eye treatment, acne scars, and hair loss are available at the clinic. Please contact us for detailed information and to book an appointment.

Conclusion

PDRN (Salmon DNA) treatment is an effective rejuvenation therapy supported by strong scientific evidence, increasing collagen synthesis and accelerating tissue repair through the adenosine A2A receptor mechanism. Excellent results can be achieved with correct patient selection, an appropriate protocol, and an experienced physician.

This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified physician for treatment decisions.