Written by the Skymedic UK clinical team. Skymedic formulations are developed in ISO 13485-certified laboratories in Barcelona. This guide is educational and does not replace professional medical advice.
Polynucleotides and PDRN are among the most-searched regenerative treatments in UK aesthetics right now — and also among the most misunderstood. This guide explains what they are, how they differ from exosomes and skin boosters, what the evidence says, and how professionals use PDRN-based products in clinic and at home.
What are polynucleotides and PDRN?
Polynucleotides (PN) are chains of nucleotides — the building blocks of DNA — purified for use in skin regeneration. PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a specific, well-characterised fraction of polynucleotides, typically derived from purified salmon or trout DNA. In practice the terms are often used interchangeably, but PDRN refers to the standardised active studied in most clinical literature.
Their appeal is mechanism: rather than filling or freezing, they work as a biostimulator — signalling fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin, improving hydration, and supporting tissue repair.
How PDRN works
PDRN is thought to act through two main pathways:
- Adenosine A2A receptor activation — promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation and supports new blood-vessel formation.
- The salvage pathway — supplies nucleotides that cells reuse to build new DNA, accelerating the repair of damaged tissue.
The visible result over a course of treatment is firmer, better-hydrated skin with improved texture and tone — a gradual "skin quality" improvement rather than an instant change.
PDRN vs exosomes vs skin boosters
| Feature | PDRN / polynucleotides | Exosomes | HA skin boosters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary action | Biostimulation & tissue repair | Cell-to-cell signalling for regeneration | Deep hydration |
| Derived from | Purified salmon/trout DNA | Plant or cell-derived vesicles | Hyaluronic acid |
| Best for | Skin quality, under-eye, healing | Rejuvenation, post-procedure recovery | Dryness, fine lines |
| Onset | Gradual, over a course | Gradual | Fairly quick hydration |
For a deeper side-by-side, see our guide on exosomes vs polynucleotides.
Is PDRN legal and regulated in the UK?
This is where professionals need to be careful. Injectable polynucleotide and PDRN products are typically supplied as medical devices or medicines and should only be administered by qualified practitioners, following the manufacturer's indications and UK regulations. Topical PDRN-containing skincare — such as serums used with or without microneedling — can be used more broadly as part of a professional or home-care routine. Always check the classification and intended use of any specific product before use.
How to choose a PDRN product
- Certification: look for manufacturing under ISO 13485 and transparent sourcing.
- Concentration and formulation: PDRN works best in stable, well-formulated delivery systems — supporting actives like niacinamide can complement it.
- Intended use: match the product to your protocol (topical, microneedling-assisted, or professional injectable where you are qualified).
Skymedic's Meso OX PDRN + Niacinamide combines PDRN with niacinamide in a mesoceutical formulation designed for professional microneedling and drug-delivery protocols. Explore the full mesoceuticals range for related actives.
Frequently asked questions
Are polynucleotides and PDRN the same thing?
PDRN is a standardised fraction of polynucleotides. In clinics the terms are often used interchangeably, but PDRN refers specifically to the purified, well-studied active most literature is based on.
Are PDRN treatments suitable for under-eye skin?
Under-eye skin quality is one of the most popular reasons practitioners choose polynucleotide-based treatments, because of their biostimulating and hydrating effect. The right product and protocol should always be chosen by a qualified practitioner.
How soon will I see results?
PDRN works gradually over a course of treatments. Most people notice improvements in hydration, firmness and texture over several weeks rather than immediately.
Can I use PDRN skincare at home?
Topical PDRN-containing skincare can be used at home as directed. Injectable PDRN should only be administered by qualified professionals.
