Salmon sperm on your face? It's the question we hear most as soon as we mention PDRN. The short answer: yes, the raw material comes from salmon milt. The long answer is more interesting, because what ends up in your skin has little to do with that image.
In this article we explain what PDRN is, how it's made, what it does in the skin and why Mavi Clinique uses it in a new treatment: Microneedling PDRN Rebuild. Honestly, without promises we can't keep.
What exactly is PDRN?
PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide: short pieces of DNA, also called polynucleotides. They are obtained from salmon milt — the sperm, indeed. Then comes an extensive purification process. Fats, proteins and all other components are removed. What remains are only the DNA fragments themselves, often listed on the label as sodium DNA.
So the serum we use contains no cells and no sperm. It's a clear, viscous liquid. We work with D/A's Salmon DNA Sterile Serum: sterile-packed, with added niacinamide, a vitamin B3 that calms the skin.
Why salmon?
Salmon DNA closely resembles human DNA. According to the manufacturer, that makes the fragments well tolerated by the skin. Salmon is also a reliable source of very pure polynucleotides. That's why PDRN has been used in aesthetics for some time.
What does PDRN do in the skin?
PDRN is used to support the skin's natural repair. The manufacturer describes that it stimulates cell renewal, supports collagen and elastin production and improves hydration. In practice we mainly look for a gentle, regenerative treatment: working on skin quality, fine lines and texture without putting extra strain on the skin.
Good to know: PDRN is not a miracle cure. Skin changes gradually, over several sessions, and results differ from person to person.
Why together with microneedling?
In microneedling, fine needles create microscopic channels in the skin. They start the repair process, and the serum applied at the same time reaches the skin better. At Mavi we never go deeper than 0.5 mm: this is cosmetic microneedling, not a medical procedure. We don't inject anything.
Salmon DNA is quite viscous. So we first warm the vial to body temperature in a water bath. That way the pen glides gently over the skin and the serum spreads evenly.
Who is PDRN Rebuild for?
For ageing and texture, our other microneedling packages often use a serum that contains a retinoid, a form of vitamin A. It's a powerful active ingredient, but it doesn't suit every skin. PDRN Rebuild is our retinoid-free alternative. We choose it when:
- your skin is thin;
- your skin is sensitive, but calm at that moment;
- your skin heals more slowly;
- you prefer not to use retinol.
The goals stay the same: fine lines, skin quality, texture or small scars. We don't decide on a hunch whether PDRN Rebuild suits you. Joyce assesses your skin during the consult, with the skin analysis.
Who is it not for?
- With a fish or salmon allergy: then we never use PDRN. We always ask about this explicitly.
- During pregnancy or breastfeeding, with active acne, or inflamed or irritated skin: no microneedling.
- If you only want plant-based products: Salmon DNA is of animal origin. Let us know and we'll find another plan together.
How does a programme at Mavi work?
Everything starts with a Skin Strategy Consult (€50). We analyse your skin and check whether microneedling, and which package, fits. If you choose PDRN Rebuild, we start with three sessions, four weeks apart. Then we reassess your skin and only add sessions when it makes sense, up to six at most. A session costs €215 and takes about 60 minutes.
After the treatment your skin may be a little red for one to three days, like after a mild sunburn. That day no make-up, only a mild cleanser and a hydrating serum, and a good SPF in the days after. You receive full aftercare instructions after every session.
What PDRN Rebuild is not
It's not an injection, not a lift and not a quick fix. If you're looking for firmness or contour, a treatment like HIFU suits you better. PDRN Rebuild is a gentle, building treatment for skin quality, for those who want to take it slowly. Results may vary from person to person.
Curious whether PDRN Rebuild suits your skin? Book a Skin Strategy Consult. We look at your skin, discuss what you want to achieve and propose a plan in which every treatment has a reason.
