Quick answer: PDRN is a skin-supporting ingredient made from DNA fragments (most often from salmon, sometimes from plants) that is linked to recovery, hydration and a smoother, bouncier look. NAD+ is a molecule your cells use to produce energy, and in skincare it is used to support a fresher, more resilient-looking complexion. Both are gentle, hydrating "support" ingredients rather than harsh actives, so they slot easily into most routines, including alongside retinoids and brighteners. Here is what each one does and how to use them.
What is PDRN?
PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide. Simply put, it is a purified blend of DNA fragments. In Korea it first became popular in clinic treatments, and now it appears in serums, creams, toners and even mists.
In topical skincare, PDRN is typically used to:
- Support the skin's natural recovery, especially after stress or irritation
- Boost hydration and that "glass skin" glow
- Support a smoother, plumper, more elastic look
- Calm the look of redness when paired with soothing ingredients
Most PDRN in K-beauty is salmon-derived, but plant-sourced versions exist too, such as rose PDRN. Research on topical PDRN is still growing, so think of it as a supportive, comforting ingredient rather than a quick fix.
What is NAD+?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It helps cells turn nutrients into energy and is involved in their repair processes. Levels naturally decline with age, which is why NAD+ has become a buzzword in "longevity" skincare.
In skincare products, NAD+ is used to support:
- A more energized, less tired-looking complexion
- Skin renewal and a firmer feel, often with peptides added
- Barrier strength when paired with ceramides
You will often see NAD+ alongside peptides, niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3 related to NAD+) or NMN. As with PDRN, topical research is still developing, so cautious expectations are the honest approach.
PDRN vs NAD+ at a glance
| PDRN | NAD+ | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Purified DNA fragments | A cellular energy coenzyme |
| Main focus | Recovery, hydration, glow | Energy, firmness, renewal |
| Best for | Dehydrated, stressed or sensitized skin | Tired, dull skin and early signs of aging |
| Irritation risk | Low | Low |
Our PDRN and NAD+ picks
PDRN
- Anua PDRN 100+ Hyaluron Moisturizer Cream is a best seller that combines PDRN and hyaluronic acid in one moisturizer.
- Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum brings PDRN, hyaluronic acid and collagen together for hydration and glow.
- Anua PDRN Capsule Mist is an ultra-fine mist you can use over makeup for a quick hydration refresh.
- Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream protects salmon PDRN in collagen capsules, with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
- Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Eye Cream targets fine lines and elasticity under the eyes.
- Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Volume Multi Balm is a mess-free stick for dry spots on the go.
- Arencia PDRN Booster Shot uses salmon and rose PDRN with peptides, niacinamide and panthenol in a pink gel-cream serum.
- Eqqual Berry Aloe PDRN Calming Green Serum pairs PDRN with aloe for sensitive, irritated skin.
- Axis-Y Triple PDRN Gel Toner is a hydrating gel toner with berry PDRN and astaxanthin.
NAD+
- Numbuzin NAD+ Bio Oil Essence combines NAD+ with 50 types of peptides for elasticity.
- Arencia NAD+ Booster Shot is a fast-absorbing NAD+ complex serum suitable for the face and eye area.
- Eqqual Berry NAD+ Peptide Boosting Serum blends NAD+, multi-peptides and ceramide.
- Numbuzin No.9 NAD+ Peptides Dewy Sun Essence is an SPF 50+ sunscreen with NAD+ and peptides.
- Numbuzin No.9 NAD+ Retinol Eye Cream adds retinol for under-eye fine lines (night use).
PDRN and NAD+ together
- Numbuzin NAD+ PDRN + 50 Peptides Glow Boosting Toner puts both ingredients in your very first step.
- Epii Double Up Cream NAD+ NMN & TXA pairs NAD+ with tranexamic acid and niacinamide for firmness and brightness in one cream.
How to build a PDRN + NAD+ routine
Because these ingredients are hydrating and low-irritation, you can use them morning and night. Pick one hero per step instead of using everything at once.
Morning
- Cleanse: Skin 1004 Centella Ampoule Foam.
- Toner: Numbuzin NAD+ PDRN Glow Boosting Toner or Axis-Y Triple PDRN Gel Toner.
- Serum: Arencia NAD+ Booster Shot.
- Moisturize: Anua PDRN 100+ Hyaluron Cream.
- Sunscreen: Numbuzin NAD+ Dewy Sun Essence. During the day, refresh with the Anua PDRN Mist.
Evening
- Double cleanse: Skin 1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil, then your foam.
- Toner: same as the morning.
- Serum: Arencia PDRN Booster Shot or Anua PDRN Capsule Serum. Using a retinoid? Apply it first on dry skin, then a PDRN serum on top for comfort.
- Eyes: Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Eye Cream.
- Moisturize: Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream or, for a richer night, Mary&May Spicule Collagen PDRN Cream.
Safety notes
- Patch test new products, even gentle ones.
- Fish allergy? Most PDRN is salmon-derived. Check the ingredient list, or choose a plant-based formula, and ask your doctor if you are unsure.
- Spicule creams like Mary&May's can tingle. Start a few nights a week and avoid using them with strong acids or retinoids on the same night.
- Products with retinol (like the NAD+ retinol eye cream) are for night use, need SPF the next morning, and are not for use during pregnancy without your doctor's approval.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding? Ask your doctor before adding new products.
Which one is for you?
- Dehydrated, tight skin: Anua PDRN Capsule Serum plus Anua PDRN Cream.
- Sensitive or red skin: Eqqual Berry Aloe PDRN Serum.
- Tired, dull skin and early lines: Numbuzin NAD+ Bio Oil Essence or Eqqual Berry NAD+ Peptide Serum.
- Firmness plus brightening: Epii Double Up Cream NAD+ NMN & TXA.
- Want one easy step: Numbuzin NAD+ PDRN Toner.
- Under-eye care: Medicube PDRN Eye Cream.
FAQ
Is PDRN really made from salmon?
Most PDRN in Korean skincare is derived from salmon DNA, purified for cosmetic use. Some brands also use plant sources, such as rose. The product page or ingredient list usually tells you which one you are getting.
Can I use PDRN and NAD+ together?
Yes. They are both gentle and complement each other, which is why some products, like the Numbuzin toner, combine them.
Can I use PDRN with retinol or vitamin C?
Generally yes. PDRN and NAD+ are soothing support ingredients, so they pair well with actives and can help your routine feel more comfortable.
Are these suitable for oily or acne-prone skin?
Many formulas are lightweight. Gel toners, serums and mists usually feel best on oily skin, while richer creams suit dry skin.
When will I notice a difference?
Hydration and glow can feel better quickly. Changes in firmness and texture, if any, take consistent use over weeks to months, and results vary from person to person.
Try the trend the smart way
Browse the Anua, Medicube, Numbuzin and Arencia collections to find your PDRN or NAD+ hero. All picks are pharmacist-recommended, cash on delivery is available all over Egypt, and unopened items can be exchanged within 14 days. Not sure where to start? Chat with us on WhatsApp.