What’s the best way to administer polynucleotides (PN), Polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), and other Skin Boosters?

What is the difference between traditional mesotherapy ("meso") and the BAP technique? Let’s discuss these minimally invasive methods of administering PN, PDRN, and other skin boosters.

Mesotherapy:

• Mesotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses very short, thin, fine needles to make multiple tiny superficial injections across the entire treatment area
• Very small doses of the product are placed just beneath the skin, creating “blebs” that then absorb into the dermis
• Benefits: hydration, reduced inflammation, enhanced collagen production, improved skin/tone and texture
• Used to treat the periocular region (around the eyes), full face, neck, décolletage/upper chest, or targeted areas
• Products used can include PN, PDRN, exosomes, and other skin boosters

BAP Technique (Bio Aesthetic Points):

• The BAP technique involves 5 strategic injection points on each side of the face (for a total of 10 injection points)
• A neck BAP technique has also been developed
• BAP points were designed to maximize product diffusion, while minimizing risk and discomfort
• BAP is often a preferred method for beginning DIY’ers as it involves minimal injection points (faster, less discomfort, less downtime)
• With some products, BAP is also preferred to provide deeper and longer lasting hydration and structural support
• Not all products are suitable for BAP. The technique is often used with Hyaron, Profhilo, Nucleofill Strong, and other high-viscosity (i.e. thicker) skin boosters

Basic Diagram of BAP Technique

Which method should you use?

Both methods are effective. The “best” method to use is dependent on the characteristics of the choosen product, desired outcomes, and other considerations including comfort and timing.

*This post is for educational purposes only and is not professional medical advice.

For those new to the world of DIY aesthetic treatments including microneedling and mesotherapy, this is a common question, and the number of acronyms used on reddit and other online communities can be both confusing and overwhelming.

“PN” and “PDRN” also sometimes called “Salmon DNA”, are increasingly used as both a marketing term and as ingredients in the cosmetics and medical aesthetics industry in a wide range of products including “skin boosters”.

You’ve heard the terms PN and PDRN and you may be wondering what they are, and what’s the difference? You also may be wondering which one is “better” and which one should you use?

Polynucleotides (PN) and Polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN) are both highly purified natural polymers derived from the DNA of various fish species, primarily salmon and trout.

PN are longer chains of DNA fragments, with a higher molecular weight. PN products are usually in a hydrogel formulation with a relatively high viscosity (i.e. thicker) and are primarily used as injectable biostimulators. PN products are usually administered via intradermal or deep dermal injections (i.e. traditional mesotherapy or BAP). PN supports skin regeneration, boosts collagen, reduces inflammation, improves skin elasticity, and enhances hydration. Some PN products have received medical device certification in various jurisdictions including South Korea and Europe (i.e. Rejuran, Plinest, Chroma-PhilArt, Vitaran, Nucleofill, and Plenhyage).

PDRN are shorter chains of DNA fragments, with a relatively lower molecular weight. PDRN “skin booster” products generally have a lower viscosity (thinner) and more fluid properties. PDRN supports targeted skin healing, enhances skin hydration, strengthens the skin barrier and supports overall skin health.

Key Differences:

• Collagen production: PN is the most effective for increased collagen production and creates relatively long lasting deep structural support. PDRN has some mild collagen stimulation benefits and is good for healing and repair.
• Decreased inflammation: PN exhibits stronger anti-inflammatory effects. PDRN also reduces inflammation by supporting tissue repair.
• Overall practical application: PN is best for overall skin rejuvenation, anti-aging, and long-term structural support. PDRN is helpful for targeted healing, repair, and hydration.

Final Takeaway:

Both PN and PDRN can improve the condition of skin and reduce the visible signs of aging. The effectiveness of both PN and PDRN is highly dependent on the formulation of the product used, and the method of administration.

References:

Kim ST. Comparison of Polynucleotide and Polydeoxyribonucleotide in Dermatology: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Perspectives. Pharmaceutics. 2025 Aug 7;17(8):1024. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics17081024. PMID: 40871045; PMCID: PMC12388916.

A poster asked if Medicube PDRN Pink One Day Serum, advertised as the "One-Day Pink Drop Ampoule with high-purity Salmon PDRN 99%" is safe for microneedling. Let’s discuss and find out!

The Good:

• This product is packaged in “hygienic” single use vials

• It contains no fragrance

• It is alcohol free and free of essential oils

• It contains some great ingredients like PDRN (aka “Salmon DNA”) and glutathione

The Bad:

• This product is formulated for cosmetic/topical use only and is not formulated for or safe for injectable use.

• The “99% PDRN” claim is a bit misleading. This product is not comprised of 99% PDRN and appears to actually contain 10,000 ppm PDRN (equal to around 1%).

Because its not formulated for injectable use and is a topical product, it should not be used for microneedling at needle depths greater than 0.5mm which is the threshold for “medical depth”. That doesn’t mean its not a good product---it could still be used for cosmetic depth microneedling (needle depth less than 0.5mm) or for topical use an after-care product.

I've posted the full list of ingredients below.

https://preview.redd.it/2aujw7gn9zzg1.png?width=643&format=png&auto=webp&s=99341682cf343b3d9be180ee437db7976eabde61

https://preview.redd.it/basuv2po9zzg1.png?width=792&format=png&auto=webp&s=a40482bf051187201ca393a252e33f62fed29bc9

Hi Everyone,

We've compiled a brief foundational and introductory guide for DIY Microneedling that I am posting as text below, and will also link on the sidebar of the sub (r/DIYaesthetic_science) as a PDF document you can download. We hope this will be useful to anyone new to DIY microneedling. Please share your thoughts and questions. More advanced DIY'ers--we welcome your feedback for what you think is missing, how it can be improved, or anything you feel that might be misinformation!

DIY Microneedling – Part 1: Introductory Guide

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses tiny sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin, triggering the body's natural healing response. Microneedling has been demonstrated to significantly increase collagen and elastin production.

Compared to other aesthetic procedures and treatments, microneedling has minimal down time and is considered minimally invasive and safe for most skin types if proper technique and thorough hygiene practices followed.

Benefits of Microneedling

• Improve skin texture, skin elasticity, and skin tone

• Reduce fine lines and soften appearance of wrinkles including forehead lines, crow’s feet, and deeper wrinkles

• Minimize appearance of scars and stretch marks

• Reduce appearance of pores

• Reduce appearance of sunspots and hyperpigmentation

Frequency of Microneedling Sessions

The frequency of microneedling sessions depends on individual skin needs and concerns. Generally, multiple sessions are required to obtain significant results. It is recommended to space medical depth microneedling sessions at least 4 to 6 weeks apart to allow for a full cycle of new collagen production and to achieve antiaging benefits.

Depth of Microneedling Sessions

Microneedling depths typically range from 0.25mm to 2.0mm (depths deeper than 2.0mm are generally not recommended for DIY/at-home microneedling without advanced expertise). Depth should be selected based on skin concerns, treatment goals, skin thickness, and the area being treated. For overall anti-aging benefits and to achieve collagen stimulation, it is generally recommended to use a depth between 0.5mm to 1.5mm.

https://preview.redd.it/4w418hy2jszg1.png?width=733&format=png&auto=webp&s=0d841ace2c47dbaf4af36d538fc20f78ec978c85

Needle length (mm) and skin structure targeted (Image source: Shutterstock)

Safe Practices for DIY Microneedling

Microneedling can be safely performed at-home with proper preparation, technique, and aftercare, including strict adherence to hygiene. Here are some tips for safe microneedling:

• Sanitize tools and workspace using 70% isopropyl alcohol

• Always use a new and sterile needle cartridge for each microneedling session

• Thoroughly cleanse skin and pat dry using a clean towel (important: if using a topical numbing cream, thoroughly wipe it off after the numbing period and cleanse skin again)

• Disinfect cleansed skin with hypochlorous acid spray or 70% isopropyl alcohol

• Wear sterile nitrile gloves or thoroughly cleanse and disinfect hands with an antiseptic skin cleanser such as Hipiclens

• Hyaluronic acid, serums, or “glides” used in conjunction with medical depth microneedling (> 0.5mm) must be sterile (i.e. mesotherapy or injection grade products in single-use vials). Alternatively, sterile saline (i.e. 0.9% injection grade saline) can be used for glide

• Gently glide the device without applying excessive pressure or “dragging”

• Use consistent, light pressure, aiming for mild redness (erythema) and some pinpoint bleeding (optional)

Contradictions and Considerations*

• Consider stopping all actives (i.e. retinoids and exfoliating acids) at least 2 to 3 days before microneedling

• Avoid chemical peels and filler at least 2 weeks before microneedling

• Wait at least 1 to 2 weeks after neuromodulator injections (Botox) before microneedling

• Never microneedle over active acne or cold sores

• Always research manufacturing information and product ingredients to understand risks and potential side effects of any serums, glides, or other products used in conjunction with microneedling

*Note that the above list is not exhaustive and is not professional medical advice.

Recommendations for Aftercare

Taking steps for proper aftercare can help accelerate healing and will lower the risk of any adverse reactions from microneedling. Here are some tips and considerations for aftercare:

• Microchannels can remain open for several hours after microneedling, at which time you can continue to apply hyaluronic acid to soothe skin and supply hydration--you may also choose to apply a clinical grade growth factor serum or exosomes to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, increase collagen and elastin production, and enhance results

• Redlight therapy after microneedling may help accelerate healing and further stimulate collagen production

• Avoid washing your face for the first 24 hours after microneedling

• Avoid makeup and sunscreen for the first 24 hours after microneedling

• Avoid retinols and acids for at least 3 days after microneedling (sensitive skin types may need to avoid for up to 7 days)

• Avoid taking NSAIDs (i.e. Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin) for at least 3 to 7 days after microneedling (these area anti-inflammatory drugs that can interfere with the body’s natural healing response and disrupt collagen production)

• Avoid sun exposure for at least 1 to 3 days after microneedling and continue to minimize intense sun exposure for at least 1 week (or better yet—forever! Hats and sunscreen are your friends)

Final Takeaway

Microneedling is a science-backed aesthetic treatment that utilizes the skin’s natural healing response to stimulate skin renewal. By creating controlled micro-injuries, microneedling triggers collagen production and can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and can reduce the appearance of scars.

If you’ve chosen to DIY microneedle at home, or are considering DIY microneedling, it’s important to self-educate, stay up to date on current research, and adequately prepare, so that you can create your own safe and effective treatment plan.

Disclaimer: The information in this post is not professional medical advice and was written by a DIY enthusiast who is not a medical professional or a licensed esthetician.

References & Links to Recommended Further Reading

Alqam M., Wamsley C.E., Hitchcock T.M., Jones B.C., Akgul Y., and Kenkel J.M. (2023) Efficacy and Tolerability of a Microneedling Device for Treating Wrinkles on the Face. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023; 22:206–213. URL: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.14985

Alster, T.S., and Graham, P.M. (2018) Microneedling: A Review and Practical Guide. Dermatologic Surgery, 44(3), 397-404. URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318997589_Microneedling_A_Review_and_Practical_Guide

Refrigeri, Flavio (2026) The Clinical Impact of Microneedling Depth on Dermal Remodeling and Skin Quality Outcomes in Aesthetic Practice. World Scientific Research Journal. 50, 2 (Apr. 2026), 103–105. URL: https://openresearch-hub.com/index.php/wsrj/article/view/1838/1788

Setterfield L. (2013) The Concise Guide to Dermal Needling (Expanded medical edition). Victoria, CA: Acacia Dermacare Inc. URL for Full Text Free Download: https://oceanofpdf.com/authors/lance-setterfield/pdf-the-concise-guide-to-dermal-needling-third-medical-edition-revised-and-expanded-download/

Coming Soon:

DIY Microneedling – Part 2: Basic Supplies

DIY Microneedling – Part 3: An Introduction to Serums, “Glides”, and After Care Products

This is a space for those interested in DIY microneedling, DIY mesotherapy, and other DIY aesthetic treatments for anti-aging and self-improvement. All skill levels are welcome here, including DIY beginners, DIY-curious, and more advanced and expert-level DIY'ers.

This group is intended to be a non-judgmental, supportive, and collaborative space to ask questions, educate, exchange ideas, share results, and stay up to date in safe techniques, best practices, and the latest science in DIY aesthetics.

We acknowledge and value other DIY subs including r/DIYaesthetics, r/DIYaestheticsAdvanced, r/DIYHEAVEN, and r/DIYmicroneedling. This sub is not intended to be a replacement for, or a competitor with those communities, but rather another collaborative space for like-minded DIY enthusiasts to share and gain access to information, education, and safety in DIY aesthetic treatments and the latest in aesthetics science.

As this sub is in its infancy and just getting started, we welcome your ideas and feedback for what content and information you'd like to see in this space. Currently, we are planning to initially post a couple of open access and easy to digest introductory guides on various foundational DIY aesthetic treatments (i.e. microneedling, mesotherapy, and more) to make this space more accessible and productive for all. We welcome more advanced DIY'ers to share their input in these materials, and we welcome new DIY'ers to share what you feel is missing and what you'd like to see to help you get started or advance in DIY.

We are also hoping for this to be a space to move beyond influencer product hype by encouraging posts and commentary that incorporate clinical data and published scientific literature on relevant topics so that we can all grow together in expanding our knowledge of best practices and the newest advancements in aesthetics science.

Please share your thoughts to let us know how we can make this community most useful to you. We welcome your input on what type of discussions and content you’d like to see here.

This is honestly one of the most confusing things for patients coming to Korea

Technically they’re all PN (salmon dna), so same family… but the way they behave in the skin is quite different like texture, how deep we inject, how much it spreads, even how long the bumps last after

Rejuran Healer (the original one)

This is the most pure version, just PN, no HA, no lidocaine

Texture wise it’s thicker and a bit sticky, so when inject it, it doesn’t spread quickly. It stays in the upper dermis for a bit before absorbing

I use this for patients who want real skin repair like barrier damage, chronic redness, skin that became thin after lasers or overuse of actives

You’re not going to get instant glow from this. The effect is more delayed, around 2-4 weeks when the skin becomes less reactive and more stable

One important thing patients always notice is the papules (bumps) after injection
because it’s more viscous, they usually stay around 24-48 hours. If they disappear too quickly, most of the time the injection depth was too deep

PAIN is still the highest with this one!!

Rejuran HB / HB Plus

This one is PN + HA + lidocaine. You can feel the difference immediately when injecting much smoother, spreads faster, less resistance

I use this a lot for patients who want both repair and hydration or for first timers who are worried about pain because of the HA, you’ll see some early hydration and glow compared to healer so the result feels more immediate

But clinically, because it’s diluted compared to the original healer, the repair effect is slightly softer so for more damaged skin, you may need more sessions

Pain is significantly lower, usually tolerable for most patients around 4/10

Rejuran S (scar type)

This one is much more viscous than the others

It’s designed to stay exactly where it’s injected, not spread out
so I only use this for localized areas, not full face

Main indications are:

• depressed acne scars
• deeper uneven texture

Usually I combine it with subcision, break the scar underneath first then place this in
otherwise honestly just injecting it alone doesn’t do as much

And if you try to do this everywhere your face will feel bumpy in a bad way

Rejuran I (eye ver)

Under eye skin is very thin, so we need something much lighter

This one is more fluid, less dense, it spreads softly without sitting in one spot

I use it for fine lines, crepey texture, or when the under eye looks a bit thin and tired

Important thing… it improves skin quality only and it won’t fix eyebags or hollowing. Those are structural issues, different approach

Pain is low, and downtime is usually easier compared to the others

In practice we almost never treat the whole face with just one type anw. It’s usually adjusted by area…