Skincare in 2026 is shifting towards science-backed ingredients and personalised routines. PDRN, peptides, skin barrier repair and AI-powered skin analysis are gaining attention as consumers increasingly prioritise skin health, hydration, regeneration and long-term results over complicated routines.

Updated On – 14 November 2026, 12:59 PM

Hyderabad: Skincare in 2026 has been all about smarter routines, science-backed ingredients and a growing focus on long-term skin health. From the popularity of PDRN and peptide-based products to the shift towards skin barrier repair, beauty enthusiasts are becoming more conscious about what goes into their skincare routines. Complicated multi-step routines are also giving way to a more personalised approach, with greater emphasis on understanding individual skin needs. Here are five skincare trends that have been making waves in 2026.

1. PDRN Skincare And The Regenerative Beauty Craze

One of the most talked-about skincare ingredients this year has been PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide). Popularised by Korean beauty treatments and products, it has gained attention for its potential role in supporting skin repair, hydration and regeneration. Traditionally associated with dermatological procedures, PDRN has also entered serums, creams and masks. Its popularity reflects the growing interest in regenerative skincare, which focuses on improving overall skin quality rather than simply addressing visible concerns.

2. Skin Barrier Repair Takes Priority

The obsession with instant glass skin is making way for healthier skin barriers. Excessive exfoliation and overuse of active ingredients can leave skin irritated, dry and sensitive. This has increased demand for barrier-repair products containing ceramides, niacinamide, panthenol and centella asiatica. Gentle cleansers, soothing moisturisers and hydrating serums are becoming everyday essentials, with the focus on maintaining the skin’s natural protective layer.

3. Peptides And Skin Longevity

Anti-ageing skincare has evolved into a wider conversation about skin longevity. Instead of focusing only on wrinkles and fine lines, consumers are paying attention to maintaining skin firmness, elasticity and texture. This has brought peptide-based serums and moisturisers into the spotlight. These ingredients are commonly used in formulations designed to support collagen-related functions and improve the appearance of ageing skin.

4. AI-Powered Personalised Skincare

Technology is changing how people approach their skincare routines. AI-powered skin analysis tools are gaining popularity by helping users identify concerns such as pigmentation, dryness, uneven texture.

The post From PDRN to AI: Five skincare trends shaping beauty routines in 2026 appeared first on Best oLive.

Published
03rd Nov 2026

PDRN is gaining attention in professional skincare, but can topical formulations deliver the benefits associated with injectable treatments? We examine the science, potential skin benefits and what therapists need to know before incorporating PDRN into treatment protocols

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is a DNA-derived ingredient gaining popularity in Korean skincare, with growing interest in its potential to support skin repair, hydration and barrier function. Traditionally associated with medical applications and injectable aesthetic treatments, PDRN is now appearing in professional facial protocols, serums and creams.

But can topical PDRN deliver the same benefits as injectable treatments? And what does the scientific evidence actually show?

For beauty therapists and advanced skin practitioners, understanding the difference between promising laboratory findings, clinical evidence and manufacturers’ claims is essential when deciding whether PDRN deserves a place in professional treatments and homecare recommendations.

PDRN skincare: key facts

• What is PDRN? A collection of DNA fragments traditionally derived from salmon or trout, investigated for their potential role in tissue repair and skin regeneration.
• What are its potential benefits? Early research suggests possible applications in skin repair, elasticity, barrier function and visible signs of ageing, although evidence for topical products remains limited.
• Is PDRN the same as injectable polynucleotides? Not necessarily. PN and PDRN formulations can differ in fragment size, processing and delivery, and the terminology is not always used consistently.
• Can PDRN be used in professional treatments? Certain formulations are marketed for professional facials and specialist protocols, but suitability depends on the specific product, treatment and manufacturer instructions.
• Does topical PDRN work? Some formulation-specific human research is promising, but results cannot be generalised to every PDRN serum or cream.

What is PDRN in skincare?

PDRN consists of fragments of DNA, traditionally purified from salmon or trout reproductive tissue. These fragments have been associated with biological processes involved in tissue repair, cellular activity and inflammation regulation.

Research suggests PDRN may influence the adenosine A2A receptor, which helps regulate inflammatory responses and tissue repair. It may also support cellular activity through the nucleotide salvage pathway, which allows cells to reuse components needed to produce DNA.

Much of the scientific interest originally came from wound-healing research. A 2014 randomised, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism investigated PDRN in 216 patients with difficult-to-heal diabetic foot ulcers.

After eight weeks, complete healing occurred in 37.3% of patients receiving PDRN, compared with 18.9% receiving placebo.

Crucially, however, the treatment was administered through intramuscular and local injections, not ordinary cosmetic application. These findings support PDRN’s potential within tissue repair but cannot automatically be applied to topical skincare.

Why is PDRN so popular in Korean skincare?

PDRN’s popularity can be traced to South Korea, where regenerative skin treatments and ongoing skin maintenance have long occupied prominent positions.

“PDRN first gained traction in Korea through the medical aesthetics and dermatology clinic space in the mid-2010s, particularly via injectable skin-booster treatments such as Rejuran,” explains Poppy Smith from Pureseoul, a UK-based specialist retailer of Korean skincare.

Rejuran, developed by South Korean pharmaceutical company PharmaResearch, helped popularise salmon-derived polynucleotide treatments among consumers seeking improvements in skin quality rather than dramatic changes to facial shape.

As medical treatments gained recognition, Korean skincare manufacturers began incorporating PDRN into creams, ampoules and serums, bringing a clinic-associated ingredient into homecare.

“Consumers are becoming increasingly interested in skin longevity, barrier health and low-irritation skincare,” says Smith. “At the same time, the crossover between aesthetics and retail beauty has grown, with more consumers seeking clinic-inspired ingredients for at-home use.”

Dr Michael Kim, chief medical officer and executive managing director of medical strategy at PharmaResearch, believes this reflects a broader shift towards prevention and maintenance.

“It’s not just about treating the signs of ageing or the symptoms we see, but moving into prevention and thinking about the skin’s healthy function, resilience and appearance,” he says.

This interest also reflects the wider movement towards regenerative medicine and preventative aesthetic treatments, as clients increasingly seek improvements in skin quality and resilience.

However, maintaining skin health should not be confused with encouraging increasingly young clients to pursue unnecessary corrective treatments. For therapists, the most relevant lesson is the value of consistent, age-appropriate skincare, barrier protection and professional assessment.

PDRN vs polynucleotides: what’s the difference?

PDRN and polynucleotides (PN) are frequently used interchangeably within beauty marketing, but the terminology requires care.

Within PharmaResearch’s portfolio, injectable PN is described as comprising longer, higher-molecular-weight DNA fragments, while its cosmetic PDRN uses shorter fragments.

“PDRN is a shorter fragment, and this is what is in the cosmeceuticals,” explains Kim. “It needs to be shorter for better absorption.”

Hongyeol Jeon, vice-president and head of development at PharmaResearch, says the company further controls the fragment range of the cosmetic PDRN it uses.

However, this is a description of PharmaResearch’s own materials and should not be assumed to apply to every product marketed as PN or PDRN.

Definitions, molecular weights, sources and processing methods can vary between manufacturers. Therapists should therefore look beyond an ingredient name and ask for product-specific information and supporting evidence.

How do topical PDRN and injectable PN treatments compare?

Topical PDRN skincare

Injectable PN treatments

Delivery

Applied to the skin surface

Injected into skin tissue

Formulations

Serums, creams and professional concentrates

Injectable medical or aesthetic products

Main challenge

Skin penetration and demonstrating clinical efficacy

Injection-related risks, appropriate training and regulation

Evidence

Emerging, formulation-specific human research

Separate clinical evidence base, varying by product and indication

Professional considerations

Formulation, intended use, aftercare and compatibility

Qualified practitioner, clinical assessment and relevant legal requirements

These distinctions describe broad product categories rather than universal chemical definitions. The terminology and characteristics of PN and PDRN vary between manufacturers.

Does topical PDRN actually work?

One of the biggest questions surrounding PDRN skincare is whether DNA fragments can penetrate the skin sufficiently to produce meaningful biological effects.

Traditional PDRN comprises relatively large, negatively charged DNA fragments, making penetration through the protective stratum corneum difficult.

This presents a challenge for products promising effects within the deeper skin, where fibroblasts produce collagen and elastin.

“Traditionally, PDRN has been associated with injectable treatments, so naturally there are questions around how well it can perform when applied topically. This is where the formulation and delivery method become important,” says Amy Holland-Rathmill, head of sales at Million Dollar Facial.

Manufacturers are investigating several approaches, including smaller DNA fragments, alternative molecular structures and delivery technologies intended to improve penetration.

Simone Shoffman, education and clinical director at Healthxchange, describes one approach involving DNA chains folded into a three-dimensional tetrahedral structure, intended to reduce some of the limitations associated with conventional PDRN.

However, a formulation’s theoretical ability to penetrate the skin is not the same as demonstrating meaningful clinical results.

What does the research say about topical PDRN?

A 2026 study published in PLOS One examined a medium-length PDRN preparation using laboratory and skin models alongside a 28-day randomised, double-blind, split-face trial comparing a PDRN eye cream with retinol.

The clinical trial involved 31 women aged 35–55 and compared a formulation containing 0.1% PDRN-850K with a 0.1% retinol eye cream.

The findings suggested improvements in periocular wrinkles and skin measurements, alongside evidence of PDRN-associated material reaching viable epidermal layers.

However, the study examined one particular formulation over a relatively short period. Detecting PDRN-associated material within the skin does not necessarily establish the extent of its biological activity, nor does it demonstrate that all topical PDRN products penetrate or perform similarly.

Further independent human research is needed to determine which formulations deliver clinically meaningful benefits, at what concentrations and through which delivery methods.

What are the potential benefits of PDRN for skin?

The most promising potential applications for topical PDRN concern skin quality, barrier support and recovery.

For clients experiencing dehydration, dullness, sensitivity or visible signs of ageing, PDRN-containing formulations may offer an additional supportive ingredient within a broader skincare programme.

Potential areas of interest include skin hydration and barrier function, visible fine lines and elasticity, skin texture and recovery following appropriate professional treatments.

However, the strength of evidence varies considerably between these applications.

Research published in Molecules in 2023 investigated PDRN extracted from ginseng roots and its effects on skin regeneration and barrier function.

Researchers observed increased activity in keratinocytes and fibroblasts, alongside improvements in barrier-related markers in laboratory and reconstructed skin models.

Importantly, these findings demonstrate biological activity rather than definitive clinical improvements in human skin. Plant-derived DNA preparations should also not automatically be considered equivalent to conventional fish-derived PDRN.

The distinction matters when evaluating claims concerning collagen stimulation, wrinkle reduction and accelerated recovery.

Similarly, improvements in hydration or skin appearance following the use of a PDRN-containing cream do not necessarily establish that PDRN itself was responsible. Other ingredients within the finished formulation may contribute to the observed results.

How should therapists assess PDRN treatment results?

Assessing subtle improvements in skin quality presents a practical challenge.

Kim notes that changes in “pigmentation, redness, pores, hydration and elasticity” can be difficult to demonstrate through standard photography.

“The trend has already moved to skin quality, but the assessment has not followed,” he says.

Therapists should use consistent photography and consultation records where appropriate, while avoiding claims that cannot be substantiated by the product’s evidence.

Professional skin analysis and monitoring tools may help practitioners assess changes more consistently, although measurements should still be interpreted in the context of the treatment and individual client’s skin.

Can PDRN be used with microneedling?

Professional skincare companies are increasingly positioning PDRN as a complement to treatments intended to improve skin quality, particularly microneedling.

Depending on the formulation and manufacturer-approved protocol, it may be incorporated into recovery-focused facials, applied after certain procedures or delivered using specialist technologies.

Lauren Evans, training and development officer at CACI, explains how its needle-free approach combines ultrasonic atomisation, electro-infusion and LED technology with a plant-derived PDRN formulation.

Other professional systems position PDRN-containing concentrates alongside microneedling or as a post-procedure step.

The commercial opportunity is already visible in UK clinics, with many promoting PDRN microneedling treatments.

However, microneedling itself has established effects on skin remodelling. Improvements following a combined protocol cannot necessarily be attributed to PDRN without controlled comparative studies.

Is PDRN safe to apply during microneedling?

Product suitability is particularly important when the skin barrier is deliberately disrupted.

A cosmetic serum intended for intact skin should never automatically be considered suitable for application through microneedling-created channels.

Sterility, formulation, device compatibility and manufacturer instructions must determine its use. Practitioners should also follow appropriate microneedling safety and best-practice guidance.

Products marketed as PDRN skincare should not be assumed suitable for transdermal delivery simply because the ingredient is associated with injectable aesthetic treatments.

How should therapists recommend PDRN homecare?

PDRN’s role in homecare may prove more accessible than its use in advanced treatment protocols.

“I would position PDRN as part of a wider skin-health routine rather than as a single miracle ingredient,” advises Holland-Rathmill. “Good cleansing, hydration, barrier support and daily SPF should always form the foundation of homecare.”

Kim similarly describes skin longevity as a combination of professional intervention, topical barrier care and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and sun exposure.

For clients undergoing professional treatments, PDRN-containing homecare may complement established barrier-support ingredients such as ceramides, panthenol and hyaluronic acid.

However, therapists should assess the complete formulation and the client’s existing routine rather than recommending PDRN purely because it is a trending ingredient.

Post-procedure application requires particular care. Products suitable for everyday use may not be appropriate immediately after microneedling, chemical peels or laser treatments, when barrier integrity is temporarily compromised.

Therapists should follow treatment-specific aftercare protocols and avoid introducing potentially irritating or non-sterile formulations during early recovery.

Is PDRN suitable for all skin types?

PDRN skincare is marketed towards a broad range of skin types, particularly dehydrated, mature and sensitised skin.

Nevertheless, suitability depends on the complete formulation, not simply the presence of PDRN.

Its traditional fish-derived origins mean allergies and ethical preferences should be considered.

Plant-derived alternatives are emerging, including formulations using ginseng-derived DNA fragments. These should not automatically be considered chemically or clinically interchangeable with conventional salmon-derived PDRN.

Therapists should establish the ingredient’s source, check for known sensitivities and assess whether the complete formulation is appropriate for the client.

Extra caution is warranted during pregnancy and breastfeeding, where product-specific evidence may be limited, and on actively infected or damaged skin unless an appropriately indicated product is being used.

What should therapists look for in a PDRN product?

As more PDRN-containing products enter the professional skincare market, understanding how to assess their claims will become increasingly important.

Before introducing PDRN into a professional treatment or homecare recommendation, therapists should ask suppliers several questions.

1. What is the source of the PDRN? Establish whether it is fish-derived, plant-derived or produced using another method, particularly where allergies or ethical preferences may be relevant.
2. What is the molecular profile? Ask whether the manufacturer can provide information about fragment size, processing and the characteristics of the material used.
3. What evidence supports the finished formulation? Laboratory studies on PDRN as an ingredient do not necessarily demonstrate the performance of a particular serum or cream. Product-specific human research is particularly valuable.
4. How is the product intended to be used? Confirm whether it is designed for intact skin, post-treatment application or a specific professional protocol.
5. Is it compatible with the treatment being performed? Products should only be used with microneedling or other barrier-disrupting procedures where their suitability is explicitly established.
6. What contraindications and aftercare requirements apply? Check the complete formulation, manufacturer guidance and the client’s consultation history.

For therapists, the most important consideration is not simply whether a product contains PDRN, but whether its formulation, evidence and intended use make it appropriate for the individual client.

PDRN skincare FAQs

Is PDRN made from salmon sperm?

Traditional fish-derived PDRN is commonly extracted and purified from salmon or trout reproductive tissue. However, alternative sources, including plant-derived DNA fragments, are also being investigated.

The ingredient’s source and processing method should be confirmed with the manufacturer rather than assumed from the term PDRN alone.

Can PDRN skincare replace polynucleotide injections?

No. Topical PDRN skincare and injectable polynucleotide treatments use different delivery methods and may contain materials with different molecular characteristics.

Evidence supporting injected PN or medical PDRN cannot automatically be applied to cosmetic serums and creams, and topical products should not be marketed as equivalent alternatives without appropriate supporting evidence.

Can PDRN be used after microneedling?

Only where the specific product is suitable for the procedure and its use is supported by manufacturer guidance and an appropriate treatment protocol.

Ordinary cosmetic serums should not be assumed safe for application to compromised skin, particularly immediately after microneedling or other treatments that disrupt the skin barrier.

The verdict: is PDRN worth incorporating into professional skincare?

PDRN is a promising development in professional skincare, particularly as interest grows in skin longevity, barrier health and regenerative ingredients.

However, evidence from injectable treatments and medical wound-healing applications should not be used to substantiate claims about topical cosmetics.

Although emerging human studies suggest that certain PDRN formulations may improve aspects of skin quality, further independent research is needed to establish their effectiveness across different products and delivery systems.

For beauty therapists and advanced skin practitioners, the priority should be choosing appropriately formulated products, examining the evidence behind manufacturers’ claims and incorporating PDRN into individualised treatment and homecare plans where suitable.

Ultimately, PDRN should be judged on what a particular product can demonstrate, rather than the wider excitement surrounding the ingredient.

The post PDRN skincare: benefits, evidence & uses appeared first on Best oLive.

While retinol dominates nighttime skincare, dermatological experts highlight a critical gap in modern anti-aging: morning defense. Retinol aids nocturnal renewal, but photodegrades under sunlight. Meanwhile, daytime exposure to UV rays, blue light, fine dust, and stress generates free radicals that trigger “Inflammaging”—a state of chronic micro-inflammation that degrades collagen before nightfall. Because sunscreen alone cannot stop oxidative damage, complete skin longevity requires a dedicated morning antioxidant shield.

Addressing this gap, high-performance K-beauty brand DELERE introduced an anti-aging system centered on Caviar Omega-3. Containing up to 20 times more omega-3 fatty acids compared with conventional fish oil, caviar creates a proactive barrier against micro-inflammation before visible signs of aging emerge.

To guarantee purity, DELERE operates a 15-year “Farm to Face” model, managing its own sturgeon farm from cultivation to formulation. The brand was founded after a premier Korean cosmetic manufacturer specifically requested DELERE’s harvest over all external sources. Driven to explore its unique potency, founder Su-han Lee conducted years of clinical research. While sturgeons require a full decade for omega-3 and mineral levels to peak—a wait most commercial brands skip—DELERE honors this 10-year maturation, achieving a 168% improvement in skin absorption compared with a conventional serum.

To ensure deep delivery, DELERE overcomes skin barrier limitations with a patented three-tiered system.

Bioavailable Caviar Omega prepares the skin, 100% pure Salmon PDRN stimulates cellular repair, and a patented 3D Hyaluronic Acid matrix (H-Active Booster, Patent No. 10-2609651) encapsulates the active core for loss-free penetration.

This architecture powers DELERE’s new Caviar PDRN collection, headlined by the Vita Boost Shot Serum. Built for the morning routine, its dual-formula activates a freeze-dried capsule formulated with 100% pure Vitamin C directly into the Caviar PDRN serum upon first use to prevent oxidation. Combining Caviar Omega, 4,000ppm Salmon PDRN, 100% Vitamin C, and 5% Glutathione, this two-week program simultaneously targets six key indicators: regeneration, elasticity, tone, texture, hyperpigmentation, and barrier health.

In clinical trials, a single application recorded a 96% barrier recovery rate and an 82% soothing recovery rate. Over two weeks, subjects demonstrated a 123% elasticity increase and a 2.8-fold improvement in blemish reduction compared to standard serums. Certified by Germany’s Dermatest with a 100% user satisfaction rate on sensitive skin, it is ideal for ages 30 to 50 addressing dullness and fatigue. Offered in a 15ml single bottle or a two-bottle set, it is paired with the Firming Eye Serum (Caviar Omega, 300ppm Salmon PDRN, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) for eye lines and dark circles, and the Lift Neck Cream (Caviar Omega, 500ppm Salmon PDRN, Ceramides) for neck wrinkles, smile lines, and double-chin lifting care.

DELERE’s full Caviar PDRN lineup is now officially available on US Amazon. The collection has already earned high praise from top beauty authorities, with leading creators Skincare with Yuri and Dani Cole highlighting the Vita Boost Shot Serum as an indispensable morning upgrade for radiant skin. To celebrate its North American debut, DELERE is hosting an exclusive Labor Day promotion on Amazon from August 28 through September 7, offering a 20% discount across all four new SKUs.

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Key Takeaways

• As worldwide interest in K-beauty increases, Korean skincare brands are staying ahead of the curve with innovations that prioritize skin longevity, barrier support, and more.

• No longer just about hydration and “glass skin,” the latest in K-beauty is helping us age smarter with regenerative ingredients like exosomes, PDRN, and biomimetic peptides.

K-beauty has officially moved beyond its glass skin and hydration-first era. In 2026, the category is getting a whole lot more high-tech. Across Seoul’s skincare labs, formulators and cosmetic chemists are leaning into biotech, regenerative aesthetics, and next-generation delivery systems where the conversation is no longer just about what’s in a formula, but how that formula communicates with skin.

Ingredients like PDRN, exosomes, and spicules have already started making their way into the global beauty lexicon, but in Korea, they’re just the beginning. The latest innovation is centered around “slow aging,” skin longevity, and barrier-first treatments that blur the line between skincare and in-office procedures–all while maintaining the gentle, skin-respecting philosophy K-beauty is known for.

What’s emerging now is a deeper, more sophisticated layer of K-beauty innovation: fermented actives engineered for better absorption, hanbang herbal ingredients backed by modern clinical testing, cryo-inspired cooling formats, and bio-intelligent ingredients designed to support the skin rather than aggressively “fix” it. In other words, K-beauty’s next chapter is all about optimization.

Below, experts break down 10 K-beauty ingredients and technologies they expect to define the next wave.

Meet the Experts

• Amy Miller is the senior manager of product at Rael. 

• Alicia Yoon is the chief executive officer and founder of Peach and Lily.

01 of 10

Exosomes

If there’s one ingredient category poised to completely dominate skincare conversations in 2026, it’s exosomes. The regenerative ingredient—which encompasses tiny extracellular vesicles that help cells communicate by carrying proteins, peptides, and signaling molecules—has quickly become a top buzzword across K-beauty and dermatology.

But according to experts, we’re still only scratching the surface. “Consumers are beginning to understand concepts like exosomes and regenerative skincare, but we’re only scratching the surface of where this category is headed,” says Peach and Lily founder and CEO Alicia Yoon.

What’s making exosomes especially interesting in K-beauty is the level of sophistication behind the scenes. Korean labs are focused on sourcing, stabilization methods, and delivery, going far beyond simply including the ingredient.

Still, dermatologists caution that the science around topical exosome skincare is changing. “For at-home skincare, the science is still evolving,” says board-certified dermatologist Joyce Park, MD, FAAD. “Factors like sourcing, stability, formulation, and delivery system matter tremendously.”

02 of 10

PDRN

PDRN has rapidly become one of the defining ingredients of the “regenerative skincare” era. Derived from salmon DNA, the ingredient is commonly associated with skin repair, wound healing, and collagen support. It’s become a staple ingredient in Korean clinics and med-spa-inspired skincare alike.

According to Rael’s senior manager of product, Amy Miller, consumers are gravitating toward ingredients tied to “skin longevity” rather than traditional anti-aging. “We’ve seen a big cultural pivot away from aggressive ‘anti-aging’ language,” she says. “The modern consumer wants skin health and resilience.”

That shift has pushed ingredients like PDRN into the mainstream, especially among younger consumers focused on “slow aging” and maintaining skin health long-term.

03 of 10

Spicules

Spicules–microscopic, needle-like structures often derived from marine sponges–have become one of the biggest delivery-system innovations to emerge from K-beauty recently. Often marketed as “liquid microneedling,” spicules work by creating micro-channels on the surface of the skin to help active ingredients penetrate more effectively.

But according to Park, the comparison to professional microneedling treatments is a little misleading. “Spicules can create some similar resurfacing effects, but they are not the same as an in-office microneedling treatment that reaches deeper layers of the skin,” she explains.

Instead, experts say the real innovation lies in the delivery system itself. “Spicules are exciting because they act as a natural microscopic delivery system to help active ingredients penetrate better,” Miller says. As K-beauty continues leaning into treatment-inspired skin care, spicules are expected to become far more mainstream in 2026.

04 of 10

Fermented Ingredients

Fermented skincare has been a staple in K-beauty for years, but experts say the category is entering a much more advanced era. “Korean labs are becoming more sophisticated in fermentation science,” Yoon tells us. “Fermentation can help ingredients become more bioavailable and skin-compatible.”

In practice, that means fermented ingredients may absorb more effectively while remaining gentler and less irritating than harsher actives. Miller says fermentation technology is especially appealing because it allows brands to create “high-performance, results-driven ingredients” without compromising the skin barrier.

As consumers continue moving away from aggressive skincare routines, fermented actives are likely to become even more central to K-beauty’s treatment philosophy.

05 of 10

Biomimetic Peptides

Peptides are hardly new, but next-generation biomimetic peptides are shaping up to be one of the biggest ingredient categories to watch. “If I had to choose one category specifically, I think biomimetic peptides and next-generation peptide technologies are going to become much bigger editorial conversations,” Yoon shares.

Unlike traditional peptides, biomimetic peptides are designed to mimic natural biological processes in the skin, supporting collagen production, elasticity, and barrier function in more targeted ways. Park says that peptides are also appearing outside of facial skincare, particularly in scalp and hair products as the line between skin and hair care continues to blur.

06 of 10

Madecassoside

Centella asiatica (aka cica) has already become a skin care staple, but experts predict one of its active compounds—madecassoside—is poised for a breakout moment of its own. “I love this ingredient because it’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and incredibly calming for the skin,” Park tells us.

Madecassoside is especially popular for redness, irritation, dryness, and barrier repair, making it particularly appealing as consumers become more focused on skin recovery and resilience.

07 of 10

Glutathione

Already hugely popular in Korea, glutathione is finally beginning to gain real traction in the U.S. market. Known as the body’s “master antioxidant,” glutathione has become increasingly associated with brightening, antioxidant protection, and achieving the ultra-radiant “glass skin” effect consumers continue to chase.

According to Miller, glutathione is also part of Korea’s growing “inside-out beauty” philosophy, where skincare increasingly overlaps with wellness and ingestible beauty supplements. “Glutathione and tranexamic acid are transitioning from niche innovations to mainstream essentials,” she says.

08 of 10

Ginseng

Korean herbal ingredients—often referred to as hanbang ingredients—are also entering a new era. While ginseng has been part of Korean herbal medicine for centuries, Yoon says modern extraction technologies and clinical research are helping reposition the ingredient for a global audience. “Ginseng is going to have another major resurgence globally,” she says.

Today’s formulations are focusing on preserving active compounds through more advanced cultivation and extraction processes, allowing brands to highlight ginseng’s benefits for firmness, radiance, and skin resilience in a much more science-forward way.

09 of 10

Cryo-Inspired Cooling Ingredients

One of the more under-the-radar trends experts are watching? Cooling skincare. According to Miller, cryo-inspired formats are rapidly gaining traction in Korea as consumers increasingly look for products that soothe irritation, redness, and heat-stressed skin. “Rising global temperatures and frequent heat waves are driving demand for cooling treatments that deliver instant calming and depuffing benefits,” she explains.

Hydrogel masks, cooling toner pads, and ice-inspired formulations are all expected to grow significantly in 2026—particularly as skincare continues merging with wellness rituals.

10 of 10

NAD and NMN

Perhaps the most futuristic on the list, NAD and NMN are longevity-focused ingredients gaining momentum as skin care becomes influenced by the wellness world. “I definitely see NAD and NMN having a major breakout moment soon,” Miller says.

Both ingredients are associated with cellular energy and longevity research, making them especially appealing as consumers embrace “slow aging” and preventative skin care philosophies. While the category is still early, experts say it reflects a much larger shift happening in K-beauty overall: skincare designed not just to improve appearance, but to support skin function over time.

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LONDON, March 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Amazon’s Spring Deal Days 2026 (March 10-16) arrives as one of the first major beauty shopping events of the year. This season, dermatologist-loved skincare brand COSRX joins the event with a curated lineup built around some of the most searched skincare ingredients today – Peptides, Snail mucin, and PDRN technology.

If your usual skincare routine doesn’t seem to be working as well as it used to, COSRX suggests looking at ingredient-led solutions tailored to different skin concerns.

• (UP TO 31%) Want Plumper, Glowier Skin? Try a Peptide Routine
  Peptides continue to gain traction across the skincare market for their ability to support collagen production, elasticity, and skin resilience, becoming one of the most talked-about ingredients in modern skincare. Within this trend, COSRX has emerged as a leading peptide skincare brand in K-beauty, highlighted by its Peptide Trio routine designed to help create the smooth, radiant finish associated with the glass skin look.
  The routine begins with The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum, a first-step peptide booster designed to enhance the absorption and performance of the skincare that follows. It is paired with The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch, infused with caffeine and collagen to help reduce the appearance of puffiness, wrinkles, and fine lines, and completed with The Peptide Collagen Lifting Glow Hydrogel Mask, delivering intensive care to leave skin looking smoother and more luminous.
• (UP TO 49%) The Iconic K-Beauty Glass Skin Routine: Snail Mucin
  For those looking to calm and replenish dehydrated or stressed skin, COSRX’s Advanced Snail line remains one of the most iconic routines in K-beauty. Powered by snail mucin, the range focuses on soothing care while delivering deep hydration to help maintain soft, balanced skin.
  The routine features the Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, formulated with 96% snail secretion filtrate to replenish moisture while improving the appearance of skin texture. It is followed by the Advanced Snail 92 All in One Cream, a lightweight moisturizer designed to lock in hydration and support the skin barrier.
  Together, the duo forms a simple routine focused on soothing care and lasting hydration.

Extra Steps to Elevate Your Routine
For those looking to complement their core skincare routine with targeted treatments, COSRX introduces additional steps designed to enhance overall skin performance. Among them is PDRN, a trending ingredient that has recently gained global attention for its role in supporting skin regeneration and vitality. The PDRN EXOSOME Skinplaning Glaze Mask works as a special care treatment – a peel-off hydrogel mask designed to smooth and revitalize the skin for a glazed-looking finish.

The brand also expands its hydrogel mask lineup with the 5 PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Vital Hydrating Hydrogel Mask, joining COSRX’s growing family of hydrogel masks – including Peptide, Alpha-Arbutin and Snail Mucin lines – designed to address different skin concerns within a weekly routine.

As temperatures rise, daily sun protection becomes essential. COSRX’s Ultra-Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ provides broad-spectrum UV protection with a lightweight finish that layers seamlessly under makeup – an easy addition to any summer skincare routine.

About COSRX
Founded in 2013, COSRX is a global skincare brand known for its “essentials-only” approach: highly effective ingredients, concentrated formulas, and affordable prices. Trusted by millions worldwide and powered by social media virality, COSRX has grown into one of the most influential K-beauty brands across skincare and haircare. Discover COSRX on Amazon. COSRX is also on Instagram + TikTok.

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Polynucleotides are one of the fastest growing aesthetic treatments of the past half-decade. In fact, according to one report by Two Face Aesthetics, Google Trends has shown a significant increase in searches for the procedure – 1,566% more, to be exact.

Perfectly in line with our continued evolving taste in more natural-looking injectables that boost longevity and skin wellbeing overall (rather than ‘obvious’ enhancements), polynucleotides help with hydration, collagen production, skin repair, and regeneration.

However, as with all injectables, there is a cost associated with these procedures – and they’re not exactly affordable. Considering most patients will require two to three appointments to really reap the rewards from their treatment, the financial implications of signing up to these can often deter beauty fans.

Luckily, you’ve got alternatives if you want to achieve that revered polynucleotides glow. While topical products won’t offer the depth and longevity that injectables can, they are a great place to start, and the rise of PDRN-powered products are proof of this.

Beloved by derms and doctors (and rumoured to be used by celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston), this is an ingredient you should take note of if you’re looking to unveil stronger, healthier skin.

What is PDRN and how can it benefit your skin?

PDRN is an acronym for PolyDeoxyRiboNucleotide, which is a DNA fragment typically derived from fish like salmon or trout. It is a form of polynucleotide with a slightly lower molecular weight, and can be used in aesthetic treatments or at-home skincare routines.

“When injected, PDRN stimulates fibroblasts, cells responsible for producing collagen and repairing damaged skin. In skincare it’s gaining popularity for its restorative and soothing effects, even when used in topical form,” explains Dr Christine Hall, Aesthetic Doctor and Korean skincare expert at Taktouk Clinic.

PDRN – which first gained traction and popularity in South Korea – has been hailed for its skin healing and regenerative properties, both in a medical and cosmetic sense.

When used topically as part of your skincare routine, it can do everything from boosting hydration, increasing collagen production (hence, aiding in anti-ageing), brightening, and improving skin tone, texture and resilience.

“It hydrates the skin, reduces inflammation and helps to support the skin’s natural repair processes,” notes Dr Hall. “These effects are particularly valuable for compromised or post-procedure skin where it can aid recovery and improve skin texture and comfort.”

James Devaney//Getty Images

Can PDRN replace polynucleotides treatments?

In short, yes and no. In terms of skin penetration, there’s no contest between injectable absorption of PDRN and topical application, the experts agree. “It won’t penetrate as deeply or work as dramatically as injectables,” says Cosmetic Doctor Dr Raquel Amado.

“Results may take longer and be less pronounced,” when using PDRN skincare, she adds. This is largely due to PDRN’s larger molecular size, meaning it cannot penetrate as deeply when applied at the surface versus injected beneath. However, she says, “while it won’t deliver the same depth of regeneration since it cannot penetrate the skin barrier effectively, it can still offer visible improvements in hydration, calmness and surface repair.”

It therefore “provides a more affordable and non-invasive alternative to injectable treatments,” and is “a worthwhile addition to a skincare routine, particularly for maintaining skin health and supporting recovery.”

In addition, PDRN topical application can be a great complementary skincare addition for those attending Polynucleotides appointments. Together, they can offer the best possible results.

“Polynucleotides (PNs) are longer DNA chains with deep regenerative abilities. PDRN, being a shorter fragment, acts more rapidly and is easier to absorb topically,” explains Dr Amado.

“When combined, PDRN can be used between injectable PN treatments to maintain and enhance effects. It can prep the skin before procedures, improving skin condition and tolerance, and works synergistically to amplify wound healing, hydration, and collagen synthesis.”

Who can use PDRN skincare?

Luckily, PDRN is well-tolerated by most, and because it’s an ingredient that’s used to hydrate and heal skin, it’s relatively gentle. In saying that, there are some who may wish to steer clear of it. For example, due to the fact it is derived from fish like salmon, anyone with a fish allergy will find it not to be suitable. In addition, says Dr Hall, “it may also not be appropriate for vegans, vegetarians, or those with religious or ethical concerns regarding animal-derived ingredients.”

Dr Amado adds that those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, immunocompromised or experiencing severe skin conditions, should always consult a doctor before trying the ingredient.

How to use PDRN in your routine

As PDRN is all about hydration, rejuvenation and healing, it’s best to try a leave-on product like a serum or cream – note too that serums are often the greatest vehicles for delivery as they can penetrate more deeply into the skin due to their make-up of smaller molecule sizes. Korean skincare brands are known for their inclusion of PDRN, making them a great place to start.

Banobagi PDRN Repair Real Balm

Credit: Banobagi

Focused on reparative care for dry, delicate skin, this balm is like a soothing salve for the face.

Medicube Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum

Credit: Medicube

A popular formula that’s both lightweight and non-sticky, Medicube’s serum delivers bouncier skin with better elasticity.

Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum

Credit: Anua

For just £20, you can get in on the salmon sperm trend with this serum, which you can pick up at Boots.

Genabelle PDRN Rejuvenating Cream

Credit: Genabelle

Want something even more hydrating? Genabelle’s cream is suitable for all skin types, and helps with hydration and skin cell regeneration.

The post What is PDRN skincare? The K-beauty trend that promises glass skin appeared first on Best oLive.

PDRN is the trending K-beauty skincare ingredient that dermatologists say supports skin repair and hydration – here are the best products to try in 2026

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PDRN is a skincare ingredient skyrocketing in popularity this year(Image: Getty)

Every few years there seems to be a new hero skincare ingredient to incorporate into our routines. Hyaluronic acid has been universally revered for its hydration properties, vitamin C has earned essential status for its glow-giving abilities, while retinol is a must for anti-ageing focused evening routines. Now, as we head into 2026, PDRN is taking centre stage – but what exactly is it and how should we be using it?

Already a staple in medical aesthetics and K-beauty, which has dominated social media and beauty aisles over the last 12 months, PDRN is being hailed as the next generation of barrier-first, recovery-led skincare. As such, skincare fans are likely to start seeing it crop up a lot more in high-street launches in the coming months, with many formulas relying on the ingredient to deliver bouncy, hydrated and protected skin.