Treatment Overview
PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) Injection is an advanced regenerative treatment offered in Korean dermatology clinics, increasingly used for cystic and inflammatory acne. Extracted from salmon DNA fragments, PDRN is known for its powerful skin-healing, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-regenerating properties.
When injected into cystic acne lesions or acne-prone areas, PDRN accelerates healing, calms inflammation, reduces redness, and lowers the risk of scarring. Unlike cortisone injections, which only shrink inflammation, PDRN helps the skin repair itself naturally, making it ideal for patients prone to post-acne scars.
In Korea, PDRN injections are often combined with LED therapy, exosomes, or Rejuran Healer for comprehensive acne care and long-term skin regeneration.
Purpose & Benefits
- Anti-Inflammatory Effect: Calms redness, swelling, and pain from cystic acne.
- Accelerated Healing: Speeds up recovery of acne lesions and damaged skin.
- Scar Prevention: Stimulates tissue repair to reduce post-acne scarring.
- Collagen Regeneration: Strengthens skin structure and elasticity.
- Skin Soothing: Improves sensitivity and skin barrier function.
- Gentle Alternative: Non-steroid option for patients who prefer natural healing.
Ideal Candidates
PDRN Injection in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with cystic or nodular acne at risk of scarring.
- Individuals who want a non-steroid alternative to cortisone injections.
- Those with sensitive skin prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH).
- Patients seeking both acne treatment and skin regeneration.
- Individuals recovering from acne scar treatments who need faster healing.
Possible Risks & Complications
PDRN injections are very safe, but mild and temporary effects may include:
- Redness or Tenderness: At the injection site for 1–2 days.
- Mild Swelling or Bruising: Rare, subsides quickly.
- Allergic Reaction: Extremely rare, as PDRN is highly biocompatible.
Compared to steroid injections, the risks of skin thinning or pigmentation are minimal.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Direct Micro-Injection: PDRN injected into or around cystic acne lesions.
- Multi-Point Technique: Used in acne-prone areas for wider regenerative coverage.
- Combination Therapy: Often paired with LED light, exosome therapy, or Rejuran for stronger results.
Protocol: Typically 3–5 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart, depending on acne severity.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness or sensitivity at injection points.
1–2 Days: Inflammation decreases, cyst feels less painful.
1–2 Weeks: Lesions heal faster, with reduced risk of scarring.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply soothing moisturizers and barrier creams.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent pigmentation.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants, retinoids, or strong acids for 3–5 days.
- Do not pick or press healing acne lesions.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Acne lesion heals faster with less redness.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable improvement in inflammation, texture, and skin resilience.
- After 3–5 Sessions: Long-term scar prevention, smoother skin, and stronger barrier function.
Maintenance injections every 3–6 months may be recommended for acne-prone patients.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Diagnosis
Dermatologist evaluates acne severity, inflammation level, and scar risk.
Preparation
Gentle cleansing; topical numbing cream may be applied for comfort.
PDRN Injection Session
- Step 1: Customized PDRN solution prepared.
- Step 2: Ultra-fine needle injects PDRN into acne lesion or acne-prone areas.
- Step 3: Cooling mask or LED therapy applied for soothing.
Duration: 15–20 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Barrier cream and sunscreen applied; patients resume daily activities immediately.
Follow-Up
3–5 sessions recommended for best outcomes.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Regenerative Focus: PDRN improves both acne inflammation and long-term skin health.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Minimizes risks of PIH compared to aggressive steroid injections.
- Combination Programs: Often paired with exosomes, Rejuran, or LED therapy.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Korean clinics use advanced protocols for scar prevention.
- Affordable Multi-Session Packages: Cost-effective compared to Western regenerative injections.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single PDRN Injection Session: USD 100 – 200
- PDRN + LED/Soothing Care: USD 150 – 300
- PDRN + Exosome/Regenerative Boosters: USD 250 – 400
Example Korean Packages:
- Standard Program (3 sessions): USD 350 – 600
- Acne Care Program (3–5 sessions with LED/Extraction): USD 700 – 1,200
- Premium Program (5 sessions with Rejuran/Exosome boosters): USD 1,500 – 2,200
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: PDRN injections for acne and scar prevention.
- Banobagi Dermatology: PDRN programs combined with acne healing care.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: PDRN with exosome or LED therapy.
- View Dermatology: Acne scar and regeneration protocols including PDRN.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium PDRN packages with regenerative boosters.
