Dr. Jane Yoo explains that topical polynucleotides and polydeoxyribonucleotides are DNA fragments that can calm irritation and support skin repair, but their effects are subtle. Injectable forms aren't FDA-approved in the US. PDRN traditionally comes from salmon DNA, though plant-based versions from ginseng or rice are becoming more common.
Hi, I'm Dr. Jane Yoo, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Today I want to talk about polynucleotides, or PN, and polydeoxyribonucleotides, or PDRN, specifically as they relate to topical skincare. You may have heard PN or PDRN discussed in the context of regenerative treatments or salmon DNA therapies. While injectable forms are used internationally, it's important to clarify that injectable PN and pDRN are not FDA approved and are not legally permitted for injection in the United States. What is available in the US are topical formulations such as serums, creams, and masks, which are regulated as cosmetic products. Both pN and pDRN are derived from DNA fragments. In skincare, these fragments are thought to support skin repair and recovery by interacting with pathways involved in inflammation control, cellular turnover, and barrier support. When used topically, their effects are more subtle and gradual compared to injectable applications studied abroad. Traditionally, PDRN has been sourced from salmon DNA, which has been widely studied in wound healing and tissue repair in medical settings. However, there has been growing interest in developing bioengineered and plant-derived or vegan versions of PDRN. This shift is driven by several factors, including ethical considerations, sustainability, supply consistency, and patient preference for non-animal-derived ingredients. As a result, DNA fragments derived from sources such as ginseng, rice, and green tea have been incorporated into topical skincare formulations. Vegan and plant-based pDRN also allows for more controlled manufacturing and formulation within cosmetic regulations, particularly for topical use. From a practical standpoint, topical PN and PDRN are best thought of as supportive skincare ingredients, not biostimulators or fillers. They may be helpful for patients looking to calm irritated skin, support recovery after procedures, or improve overall skin quality with consistent use, but they do not provide the long-term structural changes seen with injectable treatments. As with many trending ingredients, formulation matters. Concentration, stability, and how the product fits into your overall routine will influence how your skin responds. If you're considering PN or PDRN skincare, it's important to understand what these ingredients can and cannot do and to clearly distinguish topical use from injectable medical treatments that are not approved in the United States.
