Key takeaways
- Polynucleotides (PDRN) are purified DNA fragments, commonly from salmon.
- They are used to support hydration and the skin’s regeneration — popular for ageing, tired-looking skin.
- Serums are for the skin’s surface and microneedling — never for injection.
- Use within 15 minutes of opening: the active loses strength once exposed to air.
If you follow UK aesthetics, you will have heard of “polynucleotides” — the ingredient behind one of the fastest-growing clinic treatments. A topical salmon DNA serum brings that ingredient into a home routine. Here’s what it is and how to get the most out of it.
What are polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are chains of nucleotides — the building blocks of DNA. In skincare they are usually purified from salmon DNA and sometimes labelled PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide). They are used to support cell regeneration and hydration from within, which is why they are associated with anti-ageing and skin-quality routines.
Serum vs injections
In clinics, polynucleotides are injected by medical practitioners. A serum is different: it is applied to the skin and, ideally, worked in with microneedling so it can reach deeper layers. Our Salmon DNA Polynucleotide Serum is suitable for microneedling only — not injections.
What’s in our serum
- Water and sodium chloride
- Hyaluronic acid 5% — for hydration
- PDRN (polynucleotide) sodium 0.22% (3.3mg per 1.5ml)
It comes in two formats: a 1ml single-use plastic ampoule that’s easy to open, and a 5ml glass ampoule for professionals, which requires a syringe to access but lasts longer because it isn’t exposed to air. Made in Korea.
How to use it
- Cleanse and prepare your skin, then fit a sterile pin to your microneedling pen.
- Open the ampoule just before you start. Use it within 15 minutes — the active ingredient loses strength with every ten minutes it’s exposed to air.
- Apply to one area at a time and microneedle it in.
- Soothe afterwards; a barrier-repair sheet mask the next evening is a calming addition.
Always patch test before first use.
Can you use it without microneedling?
You can apply it directly to the skin. But as an active ingredient designed to work in deeper layers, you get far more from it when it’s microneedled in — that’s where it does its “anti-ageing” work.
Who is the 5ml professional ampoule for?
The 5ml glass ampoule is for trained professionals. By purchasing it you confirm you are Level 4 and Level 5 VTCT trained in microneedling. Not qualified? Our home subscription includes serums matched to your concern and full support.
FAQs
What is salmon DNA serum?
A serum containing polynucleotides (PDRN) purified from salmon DNA, used to support hydration and skin regeneration.
Is it the same as polynucleotide injections?
No — injections are a clinic treatment. The serum is topical and must never be injected.
Can I use it without microneedling?
Yes, but it works best microneedled into deeper layers.
