Sodium DNA

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Low

Allergen risk

Low

Pregnancy

Safe

Suitable for

Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive

About this ingredient

Sodium DNA is the sodium salt of high-molecular-weight deoxyribonucleic acid. In cosmetics, raw material comes from salmon milt (salmon sperm DNA) or yeast. INCI: Sodium DNA. The heavy marketing legacy of the 1990s-2000s promised cellular DNA repair, genetic-level rejuvenation, and DNA-repair activation. The real mechanism is simpler. Where it is used. Premium serums and creams for mature skin, post-procedure products, lifting-effect masks. Concentrations 0.1-2%. Often appears under the commercial names PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotides) and Polynucleotides in injectable mesotherapy. In Spain, the injectable form (Newest, Plinest, Plenhyage) is widely used; cosmetic forms are less common. Mechanism. High-molecular-weight DNA on the skin acts as a humectant – phosphate groups bind water and raise stratum corneum hydration. It forms a thin film with a perceived lifting effect 2-4 hours after application. Topically applied DNA does not enter living keratinocytes, integrate into the skin's own genome, or activate DNA repair. Molecules of 50-1000 kDa physically cannot cross intact stratum corneum. Evidence base. Injectable PDRN/polynucleotides have evidence base B-C in chronic wounds, post-acne, and rejuvenation (Squadrito 2017, Cavallini 2021, n=20-40 in open-label studies). This is subcutaneous injection, not topical use. Topical DNA has evidence base D-F: humectant effect is comparable to glycerin or panthenol, but priced 50-100 times higher. Marketing claims of genetic regeneration have no clinical backing. Safety. Pregnancy and breastfeeding – topical use is safe; injectable PDRN is not recommended in pregnancy (no data). Non-comedogenic, non-sensitizing. Allergic reactions are very rarely reported. Practical notes. If a patient sees Sodium DNA or PDRN in a cream's INCI, it is a humectant at the level of effect, not genetic therapy. Effect is comparable to standard moisturizing complexes with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or panthenol. It is not an alternative to injectable PDRN mesotherapy, which works differently through direct dermal delivery. Cost-effect ratio is usually not justified.

Frequently asked questions