What Is the Difference Between PDRN and HA Skin Boosters?

Skin boosters have taken the aesthetic world by storm for their ability to hydrate, rejuvenate, and repair the skin without surgery. Two popular types leading the trend are PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) and HA (Hyaluronic Acid) skin boosters.

Though both are injectable treatments designed to enhance skin quality, they differ in their composition, mechanism of action, and results. So, which one is right for you or your patients? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Skin Booster?

Skin boosters are micro-injections of bioactive compounds that improve skin hydration, elasticity, and texture. Unlike dermal fillers, they don’t add volume—they work at the cellular level to restore skin health.

The two most popular types are:

• HA (Hyaluronic Acid) Skin Boosters

• PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) Skin Boosters

What Is HA (Hyaluronic Acid) in Skin Boosters?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in your skin that holds moisture like a sponge—up to 1,000 times its weight in water.

Benefits of HA Skin Boosters

• Deep skin hydration

• Immediate plumping and glow

• Improved elasticity and fine lines

• Stimulates fibroblasts to support collagen

• Safe and suitable for all skin types

Reference: Tezel, A., & Fredrickson, G. H. (2008). “The science of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers.” Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 10(2), 98–103.https://doi.org/10.1080/14764170701783244

What Is PDRN in Skin Boosters?

PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a DNA-derived molecule extracted from salmon sperm, known for its ability to stimulate tissue repair and cell regeneration.

It works by activating A2A adenosine receptors, which reduce inflammation and accelerate wound healing and fibroblast activity, thereby boosting collagen and elastin production.

Benefits of Skin Booster PDRN

• Repairs damaged skin and promotes healing

• Reduces inflammation and redness

• Improves skin elasticity and texture

• Brightens dull, tired skin

• Great for acne-prone or post-laser skin

Reference: Kim, J. H., et al. (2010). “Polydeoxyribonucleotide has an anti-inflammatory effect in an acute gouty arthritis model.” Korean Journal of Internal Medicine, 25(2), 193–199.https://doi.org/10.3904/kjim.2010.25.2.193

HA vs PDRN: Key Differences

Reference: Kim, Y. S., et al. (2016). “The effect of polydeoxyribonucleotide on skin regeneration.” Dermatologic Surgery, 42(7), 892–899.

Which Skin Booster Is Right for You?

It depends on your skin condition and treatment goals:

Choose HA Skin Boosters if:

• You want instant glow and hydration

• Your skin feels dry or dull

• You’re looking for visible plumping of fine lines

• You’re prepping for an event or special occasion

Choose PDRN Skin Boosters if:

• You have inflammation, redness, or post-acne damage

• You’ve had laser, microneedling, or chemical peels

• You want to restore and heal skin from within

• You’re dealing with sensitive or aging skin

Reference: Shin, J. W., et al. (2012). “The effect of PDRN on collagen synthesis in human dermal fibroblasts.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 11(4), 287–293.

Can You Combine PDRN and HA?

Yes! In fact, combination formulations are becoming more popular.

Many products now include both HA for hydration and PDRN for healing, offering the best of both worlds. Some practitioners also perform layered treatments, injecting PDRN first, followed by HA a few weeks later.

Reference: Park, J. H., et al. (2020). “Clinical efficacy of combined PDRN and HA therapy in aging skin.” Journal of Dermatologic Treatment, 31(4), 396–401.

Both PDRN and HA skin boosters deliver amazing benefits—but they work differently.

• HA is your go-to for hydration and instant glow.

• PDRN is ideal for deep skin healing, repair, and long-term rejuvenation.

Whether you're dealing with dryness, aging, inflammation, or post-treatment healing, there's a skin booster solution designed just for you.

As always, consult with a qualified medical aesthetic provider to tailor the right plan for your skin.

References

1. Tezel, A., & Fredrickson, G. H. (2008). The science of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. J Cosmet Laser Ther, 10(2), 98–103.

2. Kim, J. H., et al. (2010). Anti-inflammatory effects of PDRN in gouty arthritis. Korean J Intern Med, 25(2), 193–199.

3. Shin, J. W., et al. (2012). Collagen synthesis via PDRN stimulation. J Cosmet Dermatol, 11(4), 287–293.

4. Park, J. H., et al. (2020). PDRN + HA combination therapy in aging skin. J Dermatol Treat, 31(4), 396–401.

5. American Academy of Dermatology. “Skin Rejuvenation Treatments.” www.aad.org