Korea’s Salmon Sperm DNA Injections: How PDRN is changing the game in aesthetics
What is PDRN?
Commonly referred to as salmon sperm injections, the derived compound is actually PDRN. PDRN, or Polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a powerful DNA-based compound derived from salmon sperm that is known for its extensive anti-aging, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory effects. PDRN is emerging as a powerful ingredient in the world of regenerative medicine and aesthetic medicine.
Origins of PDRN
Scientists discovered the therapeutic benefits of PDRN when they extracted PDRN from human placentas to create a healing ointment for radiation-induced dermal lesions. When concerns arose over the ethics and bioavailability of extracting from human sources, scientists began extracting from salmon instead.
How does PDRN help with anti-aging?
The mechanism of action of PDRN involves binding of adenosine to adenosine2A receptors which activates a cascade of events that ultimately improve the good qualities of skin.
PDRN significantly increased production and expression of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen and elastin stimulation. Collagen is what gives skin its strength, texture, and volume. Elastin is what gives skin its elasticity, or its stretch.
Signalling pathways that would normally release pro-inflammatory cytokines are inhibited, while pathways to increase anti-inflammatory cytokines are stimulated. Cytokines regulate immune response, such as fighting oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Thus, PDRN helps to protect the skin from damage that would normally be induced by the release of free radicals.
Studies also suggest that PDRN inhibits tyrosinase activity, which regulates melanin production. Melanin is what gives skin its coloration and darkness. Thus, PDRN can help with pigmentation disorders of the skin to give the skin a more even complexion.
PDRN supports DNA synthesis by supplying nucleotides and nucleosides, restoring normal cell growth and accelerating tissue repair and wound healing. PDRN increases VEGF, a growth factor that increases production of new blood vessels. Oxygen and nutrients have to be transported through blood vessels in order to keep skin looking healthy.
How is PDRN used in aesthetics?
In Korea, PDRN injections are a popular skin care treatment where providers inject tiny blebs of PDRN into the dermis to stimulate more collagen. The most well-known brand of this injectable treatment is called Rejuran Healer. Injecting directly into the dermis yields the most benefits. Patients who get this treatment see improvements in skin hydration, texture, dullness, hyperpigmentation, acne, and scar healing.
While Rejuran is not yet approved for injection in the United States, we can still incorporate Rejuran Skinbooster by applying this concentrated mixture to the skin after microneedling. Microneedling creates microchannels into the skin that act as the perfect vessel to absorb topical skincare ingredients more deeply into the tissue.
Say goodbye to dull, dry, uneven, and damaged skin. Patients who get this treatment benefit from renewed, tight, glowy, and plump skin. The effects of this treatment are long-lasting when done by a skilled provider.
Written by: Christy Nguyen BSN
Aesthetic Nurse Injector and Certified Laser Safety Officer