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Vegan PDRN vs Salmon PDRN: Which Skin Regeneration Ingredient Is Right for You?
by wishtrend on Apr 23, 2025
In modern skincare, one ingredient stands out: PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) . Originally extracted from salmon DNA, it gained popularity through dermatological injections like Rejuran Healer, praised for improving elasticity, reducing fine lines, and promoting skin regeneration.
Today, this powerhouse ingredient has expanded into the world of at-home skincare—serums, ampoules, and masks—while also evolving into more ethical forms with the rise of vegan PDRN , derived from rice, ginseng, and probiotics.
So, what’s the difference between Salmon PDRN and Vegan PDRN , and which one is better for your skin?
Table of Content
🧬 What Is PDRN and Why Is It So Popular?
This ingredient is a DNA fragment that activates cell regeneration and tissue repair . It stimulates A2A adenosine receptors , which boost collagen production, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the skin barrier (Squadrito et al., 2017).
When applied topically or injected, both types trigger fibroblasts, which promote collagen synthesis, elasticity improvement, and wound healing . This makes it ideal for sensitive, aging, or inflamed skin (Khan et al., 2022).
💡 Since the late 2000s, this ingredient has expanded from injection-based treatments to topical anti-aging and acne scar products in the medical aesthetics space
🧪 How PDRN Works
This stimulates skin regeneration and provides:
1. Skin regeneration – promotes tissue repair and renewal
2. Collagen production – boosts collagen synthesis for firmer skin
3. Anti-inflammatory effect – reduces redness and irritation
🐟 Benefits and Limitations of the Salmon-Derived Version
✅ Key Benefits
Accelerates wound healing – 37.3% complete healing rate in clinical trials (Squadrito et al., 2014)
Boosts collagen production and reduces inflammation (Khan et al., 2022)
Stimulates A2A receptor – increases angiogenesis and skin metabolism (Bitto et al., 2008)
⚠️ Potential Concerns
Not vegan – sourced from animal DNA
Risk of allergic reactions – especially for people with fish allergies
Sustainability issues – overfishing and extraction practices
🌱 The Rise of Vegan PDRN
With the growth of conscious beauty, vegan alternatives are emerging. These offer a more sustainable and ethical approach:
🌾 Rice-Based Version
Derived from rice bran
Brightening, antioxidant, and barrier-strengthening properties (Hyundai Bioland, 2024)
🌿 Ginseng-Based Version
From Korean ginseng root
Stimulates collagen production and skin elasticity (Lee et al., 2022)
🦠 L-PDRN (Probiotic-Based)
Derived from lactic acid bacteria
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Superior skin absorption (Chae et al., 2025)
Despite different sources, they all work by activating A2A receptors and DNA salvage pathways , just like salmon-derived PDRN.
📊 Salmon vs. Vegan : A Scientific Comparison
| Salmon PDRN | Vegan PDRN | |
| Source | Salmon testes | Rice, Ginseng, Probiotics, Cica etc. |
| Pathway | A2A receptor, DNA salvage |
|
| Clinical Evidence | Strong (wound healing, skin repair) | Emerging (Rice, Ginseng, L-PDRN) |
| Antioxidant Effect | Moderate |
Strong (Rice & L-PDRN) |
| Absorption | Excellent via injection |
Excellent via topical |
| Allergy Risk | Medium (fish-related) |
Low |
| Sustainability | Low |
High |
✅ Summary: Salmon PDRN offers proven efficacy, while Vegan PDRN is a rising star for ethical, low-irritation skincare.
💡 How to Use This Ingredient Effect
To maximize the benefits of your chosen PDRN skincare, follow these simple steps:
Cleanse thoroughly to remove any dirt or makeup.
Apply toner to prep and balance your skin’s pH.
Use a serum or ampoule by gently patting 2–3 drops onto the skin.
Follow with a moisturizer to seal in the active ingredients.
Apply sunscreen during the day to protect skin from UV damage.
🧴 For sensitive skin, start by using this product 2–3 times a week and gradually increase frequency.
Consistency is key—results like smoother texture, improved elasticity, and reduced inflammation are usually visible within 4–6 weeks.
🧭 Which One Is Right for You?
🐟 Choose the salmon-based version if you want fast and proven results
🌿 Choose the vegan-based version if you prefer ethical, sustainable, and gentle ingredients
✨ Try the rice or probiotic-based version if you’re excited by the next wave of biotech skincare
Whether from salmon or plant-based sources, this ingredient is no longer a one-size-fits-all solution.
Choose skincare that aligns with your skin and your values.
Editor’s Picks: PDRN Products You Can Shop Now
📚 References
Bitto, A., Galeano, M., Squadrito, F., Minutoli, L., Polito, F., Fazzari, C., Altavilla, D. (2008). Polydeoxyribonucleotide improves angiogenesis and wound healing in experimental burns. Wound Repair and Regeneration, 16(4), 548–553.
Chae, Y., Lee, H., Park, J., Kim, B. (2025). Enhanced dermal regeneration via lactic acid bacteria-derived PDRN (L-PDRN). Cosmetics & Ingredients, 47(2), 41–52.
Khan, A., Kweon, S., & Lee, Y. (2022). Polydeoxyribonucleotide: A promising skin anti-aging agent. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 21(10), 410–419.
Lee, H., Jeon, S., Kim, J. (2022). Korean Ginseng Derived PDRN Enhances Skin Elasticity and Cellular Proliferation. Molecules, 28(10), 7240.
Squadrito, F., Bitto, A., Altavilla, D., et al. (2014). Polynucleotides and polydeoxyribonucleotide in skin repair and wound healing: A focus on their activity and mechanisms. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 15(5), 7482–7494.
