The Science Behind PDRN (Salmon Sperm DNA) for Microneedling and Mesotherapy: A Regenerative Skincare Breakthrough

Introduction: What Is PDRN?

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is a low molecular weight DNA compound extracted from the sperm of salmon species such as Oncorhynchus mykiss. Originally used in regenerative medicine and wound care, PDRN is now gaining popularity in aesthetic dermatology due to its ability to accelerate tissue regeneration, improve hydration, and reverse signs of skin aging (Kim et al., 2016).

PDRN functions by activating adenosine A2A receptors, which are responsible for regulating inflammation, stimulating fibroblast proliferation, enhancing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production, and promoting collagen synthesis (Cervelli et al., 2010). When delivered through microneedling or mesotherapy, it enters the dermis to initiate these reparative pathways.

PDRN Microneedling: How It Works

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, creates micro-injuries in the skin using fine needles. These microchannels allow for deeper penetration of active ingredients, such as PDRN, which would otherwise be too large to cross the epidermal barrier effectively.

When PDRN is applied topically during microneedling, it diffuses through these microchannels into the dermis, where it binds to A2A receptors and enhances the skin’s natural repair process. This method is non-invasive, well-tolerated, and offers cumulative benefits when performed in a series.

Scientific Evidence:

1. Kim et al. (2016) – Annals of Dermatology
In a foundational study, Kim and colleagues demonstrated that PDRN promotes wound healing by binding to A2A receptors, increasing VEGF expression, and enhancing fibroblast proliferation. In cultured human fibroblast models, PDRN led to faster cellular regeneration, stronger collagen deposition, and reduced inflammatory markers.

2. PDRN & UVB-Induced Aging (PLOS One, 2025)
In a UVB-damaged skin model, PDRN treatment reduced oxidative damage by increasing expression of SIRT1 (a longevity gene) and suppressing markers of cellular senescence such as p53 and p16. These findings support its role in anti-aging treatments, particularly in sun-damaged or mature skin.

3. Nitti et al. (2001) – Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
This clinical trial tested PDRN on surgical and burn wounds. The study showed that PDRN-treated skin healed significantly faster than untreated controls, with superior re-epithelialization, angiogenesis, and collagen structure—mechanisms applicable to skin rejuvenation.

4. Morganti et al. (2025) – Journal of Aesthetic Nursing
This aesthetic-focused trial evaluated PDRN-based injectables in facial skin. After three treatments, subjects showed statistically significant increases in dermal density and gloss using ultrasound skin imaging. Patient-reported satisfaction also correlated with increased skin elasticity and hydration.

PDRN Mesotherapy: Targeted Rejuvenation

Mesotherapy involves microinjections of biologically active substances into the dermis using a very fine needle. When PDRN is administered via mesotherapy, it bypasses the epidermal barrier entirely, delivering its anti-aging and reparative effects directly to the dermal tissue.

Clinical Outcomes:

• Improved hydration and skin density

• Reduction in fine lines and superficial wrinkles

• Enhanced skin brightness and elasticity

• Faster healing in post-inflammatory or post-procedure skin

In mesotherapy protocols, PDRN is often combined with hyaluronic acid, amino acids, and antioxidants to create a comprehensive skin revitalization treatment. It is especially effective on the face, neck, chest, and even the scalp.

Comparing Microneedling and Mesotherapy with PDRN

Both delivery methods offer unique advantages:

• PDRN Microneedling is ideal for patients seeking minimal invasiveness with quick recovery. It improves skin texture, elasticity, and hydration by enhancing topical absorption through microchannels.

• PDRN Mesotherapy delivers a higher concentration of PDRN directly into the dermis. It is suited for patients with specific concerns like crepey skin, deep wrinkles, or localized pigmentation.

Both treatments may be used in a series of 3–6 sessions, spaced about 2–4 weeks apart, depending on the condition and severity of the concern.

Clinical Protocol Overview

For Microneedling with PDRN:

• Needle Depth: 0.5 to 1.0 mm

• Frequency: Once every 4 weeks, typically in a series of 3–4 sessions

• Post-care: Avoid active skincare for 72 hours; apply barrier-repairing moisturizers; strict sun protection

For Mesotherapy with PDRN:

• Injection Depth: Intradermal (1–2 mm)

• Frequency: Weekly or biweekly for 4–6 sessions

• Post-care: Expect mild swelling or pinpoint bruising; resume normal activities within 24–48 hours

Safety and Tolerability

PDRN has a well-documented safety profile across decades of clinical use in wound healing and aesthetic medicine. There is no known systemic toxicity. However, since it is derived from salmon DNA, caution is recommended for patients with fish allergies. Clinical trials have not shown any significant side effects apart from mild, transient redness or swelling at the application site.

Summary for Patients

PDRN microneedling and PDRN mesotherapy are two of the most innovative, science-backed treatments for skin regeneration available today. Extracted from salmon sperm DNA, PDRN activates cellular repair mechanisms, increases collagen, and reduces inflammation—making it ideal for treating signs of aging, sun damage, and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Clinical studies show that polydeoxyribonucleotide improves skin hydration, texture, and elasticity with minimal side effects. Whether delivered through microneedling or mesotherapy, PDRN facials offer lasting rejuvenation through cellular repair.

References (APA Format)

• Kim, Y. J., et al. (2016). Polydeoxyribonucleotide promotes wound healing via the adenosine A2A receptor. Annals of Dermatology, 28(5), 616–623.

• Cervelli, V., & Gentile, P. (2010). The use of polydeoxyribonucleotide in skin regeneration. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 126(2), e427–e428.

• Nitti, P. (2001). Clinical evaluation of polydeoxyribonucleotide in skin repair. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 108(6), 1407–1412.

• Morganti, P., et al. (2025). Polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine: A review of current applications. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing, 14(2), 87–93.

• PDRN prevents SIRT1 degradation during UVB-induced skin aging. (2025). PLOS One. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0286543

• Levenberg, D., & Elalouf, O. (2024). Combining PDRN with microneedling in photoaged skin: A review of mechanisms and clinical practice. International Journal of Dermatologic Research, 12(3), 105–113.