If you told me in years prior that salmon sperm (yes, you read that correctly) and skincare would be used in the same sentence, I’d have my concerns. But alas, here we are—salmon sperm is a trending ingredient, one that made Google’s Year in Search at that. 

There’s a lot to unpack here, but let’s start extremely simple. This buzzy ingredient often appears on labels as “PDRN,” short for polydeoxyribonucleotide (say that five times fast). Studies show that PDRN can regenerate skin cells, improve the skin barrier, and enhance wound healing. Getting a bit more technical, polydeoxyribonucleotide is a linear sperm DNA polymer commonly obtained from the gonads of salmon trout, hence the whole “salmon sperm for skin” of it all. 

So how did PDRN end up in skincare, and how did I end up at my local Heyday treating myself to a Salmon Facial? We tapped three dermatologists to help us answer all of our questions. Ahead, our experts break down salmon sperm as a skincare ingredient and whether they recommend it.

What Is PDRN?

“PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide—it is essentially purified DNA fragments extracted from salmon sperm,” Dr. Del Campo reinforces. “These polynucleotides are biocompatible with human DNA, meaning our skin cells recognize and respond to them as if they were our own repair signals.”

She says that once applied to the skin, PDRN activates adenosine A2A receptors, triggering a cascade of regenerative processes. “It stimulates fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, improves microcirculation to deliver nutrients and oxygen to skin cells, accelerates tissue repair and wound healing (making it ideal post-laser or post-procedure), reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, and enhances the skin’s moisture retention by strengthening the barrier,” Dr. Del Campo explains.

Benefits of PDRN for Skin

We’ve seen everyone from celebrities to our very own Derek Deng try salmon sperm for the skin, but what exactly are the benefits, and why are they worth putting fish DNA on our face? 

“The aesthetics industry is experiencing a major shift toward regenerative medicine, cellular repair, and longevity-focused treatments, and PDRN sits at the intersection of all three,” Dr. Del Campo says. “Unlike traditional skincare that treats symptoms on the surface, PDRN works at the cellular level to address the root causes of aging and damage.”

Dr. Del Campo continues, noting that the benefits are vast. “It accelerates wound healing and tissue repair by promoting new blood vessel formation and enhancing microcirculation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to damaged areas, which is beneficial for post-procedure recovery and treating acne scars,” she says. “Its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties reduce oxidative stress, calm irritation, and protect against premature aging by neutralizing free radicals that damage DNA. It also strengthens the skin barrier, improving moisture retention and hydration, while promoting healthy cell turnover that smooths fine lines, evens skin tone, and fades hyperpigmentation.”

That said, it’s important to note that not all dermatologists are quite on board with this trend yet. Dr. Nussbaum, for example, does not offer any PDRN treatments at her practice at this time. “This new skincare craze has a lack of regulation and is not FDA approved,” Dr. Nussbaum stresses. “Effectiveness may depend on concentration and formulation quality.” 

Potential Side Effects and Skin Type Considerations

There’s one specific group that should avoid salmon sperm altogether. “[Those with] fish allergies,” Dr. Nussbaum notes. “People with seafood sensitivities should patch test or avoid.” That said, Dr. Del Campo adds that PDRN is generally well tolerated across all skin types.

As with any skincare treatment, side effects can vary depending on the formula and the individual. “[Other potential side effects include] irritation from other ingredients such as fragrance, niacinamide, or actives layered with PDRN. [These] can cause redness or breakouts. [There are also] injectable risks. Injectable forms (salon or clinic) carry a higher potential for swelling, bruising, or allergic reactions and aren’t FDA-cleared in the U.S. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, start slow and monitor how your skin responds.”

How to Incorporate PDRN Into Your Routine

“PDRN is used mainly via microinjections into the skin for rejuvenation and repair, with optional topical application after procedures to speed healing,” Dr. Kamangar shares. “Though grounded in historical wound-healing research, their cosmetic popularity vastly outpaces the current depth of mechanistic evidence. Continued dermatologic trials are needed to fully understand their true anti-aging and skin-restorative potential.”

Dr. Del Campo adds that for maximum efficacy, PDRN should be applied to clean, dry skin to ensure optimal penetration without interference from oils, serums, or other products. In my case, I went for a needle-free PDRN boost at my local Jersey City Heyday, and had it applied via a facial in the form of tiny serum drops using a nano-encapsulation. This was followed by a “Collagen Intensive Phyto-Retinol Renewal Mask” and microcurrent treatment. The feeling was odd, but not uncomfortable. I did experience a sensation of flashing lights as I lay down with my eyes closed, and I also had a taste of pennies in my mouth (I know, I’m really selling it here). Still, the experience was fast, painless, and easy nonetheless. And personally, I felt glowier than ever upon departure. 

Dr. Del Campo shares that Skin Laundry also offers a PDRN treatment called “Cell Regenerator,” a post-facial enhancement treatment. “Cell Regenerator combines one billion exosomes per ml with clinical-grade PDRN, synthetic exosomes, and vegetable stem cells,” Dr. Del Campo explains. “Applied immediately after laser or resurfacing treatments for deep dermal penetration, it accelerates healing, reduces fine lines, improves firmness, and calms inflammation. Professional-grade encapsulation technology ensures actives reach your skin cells intact—something retail products can’t replicate.”

The final verdict? To each their own. While facials and topical products can be a way to explore the buzzy ingredient, dermatologists recommend incorporating PDRN thoughtfully and with caution. More research is needed to confirm the long-term benefits of the salmon-derived ingredient.