Where there’s a will, there’s a way; and when it comes to bright, bouncy, blemish-free skin, there’s very little I won’t try—PDRN included. PDRN, short for its official name, polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a compound traditionally derived from salmon DNA (most commonly, salmon sperm). There are many preclinical and clinical studies demonstrating the ingredient’s anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, making it a buzzy addition to in-office skin treatments, and more recently, in topical use as a serum or cream. However, not all PDRN serums come from salmon. The ingredient is increasingly available in plant-based and vegan forms, whether for ethical reasons or simply for those who don’t love the idea of salmon sperm on their face, which is…fair.
Clearly, I’m not alone in my willingness to experiment. According to Spate, an AI-powered trend forecasting service, PDRN sees 1.6K average monthly searches on Google and 1.4 million average weekly views on TikTok. Many of the most popular PDRN formulas on the market hail from Korea, and one of the top trending formulas is actually a personal favorite—behold the Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum.
You might already know Medicube for its viral Booster Pro device—beloved by A-listers like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber—but the brand’s PDRN serum should be of equal hype for its ability to fade dark spots and improve elasticity. Esthetician Emma Jin calls it “a really nice hydration and glow serum.” She adds that, when used topically, PDRN is thought to help support skin repair and soothe the complexion, though the effects are intentionally subtle. The formula is also safe for all skin types, notes Medicube creative director and celebrity makeup artist Sir John. “[Our] entire PDRN line really delivers on balance,” he says. “Whether your skin is dry, combination, or very oily, it helps balance skin suppleness without overwhelming the skin.”
Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
- Why We Love It: An easy addition to any routine, this peptide serum is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The dropper allows for controlled application, and the size makes it practical for travel without triggering TSA. While the formula is vegan, it delivers the same skin-supporting benefits associated with PDRN, alongside niacinamide, adenosine, and a blend of peptides that help maintain hydration, support uneven skin tone, and improve overall skin texture.
- Key Ingredients: Rose PDRN, 5 peptide complex (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Copper Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4), niacinamide, adenosine
- Type: Lightweight serum
- Size: 30 ml
About the Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
While there are plenty of PDRN products on the market, Medicube’s formula stands out thanks to its Rose PDRN complex, a blend of Rosa Damascena extract and sodium DNA. Together, they help support the skin’s natural barrier, encourage repair, and promote overall skin health. But vegan PDRN isn’t the only heavy hitter here; the serum also features a complex of five peptides to help firm skin, support collagen, and soften the appearance of fine lines, along with niacinamide to brighten uneven tone and adenosine to smooth and strengthen overall skin structure. It’s also backed by clinical testing—according to the brand, users saw improvements in pigmentation, skin gloss, and texture in as little as two weeks, which happens to be around when I noticed results myself.
Sir John adds that the serum can also improve how makeup wears on the skin. “What’s so special about [this] is how seamlessly it strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier,” he says. When that barrier is healthy, foundation applies better, lasts longer, looks smoother, and wears more beautifully overall. “You get improved texture, longevity, and finish.”
My experience with the Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
I’m a K-beauty obsessive for two reasons: I won’t stop talking about my trips to Seoul, and Korean formulas are often lightweight, gentle, and kind to my sensitive skin. This pink peptide serum checks all the boxes, absorbing quickly so I can move through my routine without pausing, which is ideal given my general lack of patience. And while I’m not ethically opposed to salmon PDRN on my face, it’s nice knowing this formula is vegan and no fish were harmed in the process.
I like to apply the pink serum in the morning after using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro tool or my Shark LED mask, followed by moisturizer and SPF (if I don’t mention sunscreen, I get fired— kidding!). Occasionally, I’ll also layer it into my nighttime routine. I didn’t notice a dramatic difference immediately, but after two weeks of consistent use, my skin looked noticeably more hydrated, plump, and full of life, something that winter and my last situationship had fully drained from me. Jin saw similar results: She finished an entire bottle herself and genuinely enjoyed it, though she’s clear that it’s not a miracle product. “It works best if your skin is already fairly calm and balanced,” she says. “It won’t fix active breakouts or major skin issues, but it’s a good value for an antiaging, hydrating serum.”
How to apply the Medicube PDRN serum
According to Jin, the Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum fits flawlessly into any routine. Apply it after your favorite cleanser (and toner, if you use one), then pat a few drops into the face and neck. Follow with moisturizer (and SPF, if it’s part of your morning routine).
When it comes to frequency, Jin notes that the serum is safe to use once or twice daily. “I’d start once a day if you’re sensitive, then work your way up if your skin responds well,” she advises. It’s particularly appealing for those who like a streamlined a.m. and p.m. lineup without too many steps.
Is the Medicube PDRN serum really worth it?
Short answer, according to Jin, yes—if your goal is hydration, plumpness, and a healthy glow, especially at this price point. That said, it’s not meant to be a cure-all. If you’re dealing with active acne, inflammation, or hoping for dramatic transformation, this likely won’t cut it on its own.
Everyone has their own litmus test for what makes a product “worth it,” but if you’re looking for a calming, glow-boosting serum that’s easy to layer and won’t upset sensitive skin, this one is a very easy add-to-cart. If you’re targeting a specific concern, you may want to reach for something more specialized in addition.
Meet the experts
- Emma Jin is a board-certified esthetician at Stalle Studios in New York City.
- Sir John is a celebrity makeup artist whose clients include Beyoncé, Serena Williams, and Karlie Kloss. He is also the creative director of Medicube.
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