Treatment Overview
PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) Injection is a regenerative skin therapy derived from salmon DNA fragments, widely practiced in Korean dermatology clinics. While hormonal acne is triggered internally by androgen fluctuations and excess oil production, it often leaves behind redness, scarring, and delayed healing.
PDRN injections don’t directly change hormones but instead help repair skin damage caused by hormonal acne, reduce inflammation, and prevent post-acne scars. By stimulating tissue regeneration, collagen production, and skin barrier recovery, PDRN has become one of the most popular add-on therapies for patients undergoing hormonal acne care in Korea.
Purpose & Benefits
- Accelerated Healing: Speeds up recovery of active and healing acne lesions.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effect: Calms redness and irritation common in hormonal breakouts.
- Scar Prevention: Stimulates collagen remodeling to reduce the risk of pitted scars.
- Skin Barrier Strengthening: Improves resilience against recurrent acne flare-ups.
- Pigmentation Reduction: Minimizes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Regeneration Boost: Restores healthier texture and tone beyond acne control.
Ideal Candidates
PDRN Injection in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with hormonal acne that leaves persistent redness or pigmentation.
- Individuals prone to scarring from cystic or nodular acne.
- Those with sensitive skin unable to tolerate aggressive scar treatments.
- Patients combining oral therapy (Diane-35, spironolactone, isotretinoin) with regenerative boosters.
- Individuals seeking long-term skin health improvement alongside acne control.
Possible Risks & Complications
PDRN injections are considered very safe, but temporary effects may include:
- Mild Redness or Tenderness at injection sites (1–2 days).
- Slight Swelling or Pinprick Marks, resolving quickly.
- Rare Allergic Reaction, though highly biocompatible.
Unlike steroid injections, there is minimal risk of skin thinning or pigmentation changes.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Direct Micro-Injection: PDRN injected into acne-prone or healing areas with ultra-fine needles.
- Multi-Point Technique: Wider coverage for areas affected by multiple lesions.
- Combination Programs: Often paired with LED light therapy, exosomes, or Rejuran Healer for stronger regenerative results.
Protocol: Typically 3–5 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart, depending on acne severity and scar risk.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Mild redness or tiny bumps at injection sites.
1–2 Days: Redness fades; skin feels calmer.
1–2 Weeks: Lesions heal faster, pigmentation begins to lighten.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply hydrating and barrier-repair creams.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to prevent pigmentation.
- Avoid retinoids, scrubs, or acids for 3–5 days post-injection.
- Do not press or pick at healing lesions.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Skin feels calmer, with faster lesion recovery.
- After 2–3 Sessions: Noticeable improvement in healing speed, less redness, and reduced new scarring.
- After 3–5 Sessions: Long-term scar prevention, smoother texture, and healthier complexion.
Maintenance injections every 3–6 months may be recommended for chronic acne-prone skin.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Dermatologist evaluates hormonal acne activity, healing patterns, and scar risk.
Preparation
Gentle cleansing; numbing cream may be applied for comfort.
PDRN Injection Session
- Step 1: Customized PDRN solution prepared.
- Step 2: Micro-injections applied to acne-prone or healing areas.
- Step 3: Cooling mask or LED red light applied post-treatment for soothing.
Duration: 20–30 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Barrier cream and sunscreen provided; no downtime beyond mild redness.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Regenerative Expertise: Korean dermatology is globally recognized for scar-prevention protocols.
- Combination Therapies: PDRN often integrated with advanced care like exosomes, microneedling RF, or LED.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Gentle delivery methods minimize risk of PIH.
- Personalized Programs: Each treatment tailored to acne severity and hormonal triggers.
- Affordable Multi-Session Packages: More accessible than Western regenerative injection pricing.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single PDRN Injection Session: USD 120 – 200
- PDRN + LED/Soothing Therapy: 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/Peel): USD 700 – 1,200
- Premium Program (5 sessions with Rejuran/Exosome boosters): USD 1,500 – 2,200
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: PDRN for acne recovery and scar prevention.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Combination programs with PDRN + acne care.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: PDRN with LED and regenerative boosters.
- View Dermatology: Hormonal acne programs including PDRN injections.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium packages with PDRN and exosome therapy.
