Salmon sperm facials, a popular Korean beauty treatment, have gained traction for its skin rejuvenation and repairing properties. Salmon sperm contains DNA fragments called polynucleotides (PDRNs) that give the injectable treatments their reparative abilities. These injections are ideal for individuals aiming to gain a more youthful appearance. However, this treatment is not suitable for those who are vegan. A leading Korean skincare brand called Amorepacific has recently published findings on microalgae as a plant-based route for extracting PDRNs.
Microalgae-derived PDRNs
Amorepacific found that PDRNs can be derived from Chlorella protothecoides, a type of microalgae. The plant provides an excellent non-animal alternative for promoting skin regeneration and wound healing. Amorepacific’s plant-derived formulation, BluePDRN, demonstrated a wound-healing efficacy comparable to the conventional salmon-based treatments. The BluePDRN molecules are 1/20th the size of the molecules derived from salmon. The smaller size actually boosts collagen production and blood vessel growth–both which are necessary for maintaining skin health. Although the PDRNs differ in the products they were extracted from, both act through the same A2A receptor. The adenosine A2A receptor helps stimulate anti-inflammatory effects. Supplemental testing performed by US biotech company Outer Biosciences Inc. showed evidence that BluePDRN produced regenerative effects in photoaged skin tissue.
Sustainable Innovation
Amorepacific’s work demonstrates the potential of microalgae-derived PDRNs, as they have successfully developed a continuous modular process for producing low-molecular-weight PDRNs. The company’s achievement of a New Excellent Technology (NET) certification and a ministerial commendation from South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries highlights the groundbreaking nature of this sustainable technology. By focusing on efficiency and sustainability, Amorepacific aims to reduce dependence on non-renewable resources while creating high-quality, safe, and effective products for global consumers. This innovation not only supports eco-friendly production but also aligns with growing market trends toward natural, sustainable, and ethical solutions in beauty and wellness.
Microalgae in a Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Context
Microalgae is already being used in pharmaceutical biotechnology for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. The research done by Amorepacific shows how skincare can be innovated further for wound healing and skin rejuvenation.
References:
- Why Polynucleotides (PDRN), AKA Salmon DNA, Are So Hot Right Now: https://www.newbeauty.com/polynucleotides-pdrn-salmon-dna-products-and-treatments/.
- AmorePacific Finds ‘Blue’ PDRN from Microalgae Matches Salmon for Skin Regeneration: https://www.cosmeticsandtoiletries.com/cosmetic-ingredients/actives/news/22946702/amorepacific-finds-blue-pdrn-from-microalgae-matches-salmon-for-skin-regeneration?utm_source=newsletter-html&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CT+E-Newsletter+08-04-2025
- The adenosinergic immunomodulatory drugs: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/adenosine-a2a-receptor
