South Korean pharmaceutical companies are expanding polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) from medical aesthetics into pharmacy-based cosmeceuticals, targeting consumers seeking clinically backed skin regeneration. With the global PDRN market reaching KRW 11 trillion in 2024, players like Pharmaresearch, Hanmi Science, Ildong Pharmaceutical, and Ahn-Gook Pharmaceutical are launching differentiated derma-cosmetic lines to capture the growing pharmacy channel, which offers premium positioning through expert consultation.
Market context and growth
The global PDRN market was valued at approximately KRW 11 trillion in 2024, up KRW 5 trillion from KRW 6 trillion in 2022, according to South Korea's Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. Originally approved as a pharmaceutical for wound healing and tissue repair, PDRN is now being incorporated into functional cosmetics as beauty brands capitalize on its skin regeneration benefits. The domestic derma-cosmetic market is estimated at KRW 5 trillion, nearly ten times its KRW 500 billion size in 2017, driven by rising consumer interest in skin health.
Key product launches and differentiation strategies
Pharmaresearch, holder of the OTC PDRN product Rejuvinex Cream, launched 'Rejuvie-S Ampoule' for daily skincare, featuring its proprietary c-PDRN optimized for cosmetic absorption. The ampoule adds niacinamide and adenosine for whitening and anti-wrinkle benefits, plus moisturizers for sensitive skin. The company uses its patented DNA Optimization Technology (DOT) to refine salmon DNA into optimal molecular weights.
Hanmi Science's derma brand Pro-Cam entered the PDRN cosmeceutical market with 'EGF PDRN Active Synergy Mask', combining existing EGF with PDRN. The mask also contains patented ingredients TECA-Biome (probiotics and centella asiatica), U-OLIOSOME B5 (panthenol), and GREENOL H (six herbal extracts) for soothing and slow-aging care. Pro-Cam's 2024 sales reached KRW 12.1 billion, up 75% year-on-year.
Ahn-Gook Pharmaceutical launched the 'Rejuviderma' brand featuring plant-based PDRN from gromwell root, with shikonin as the key active. The company claims lower protein contamination and higher purity compared to salmon-derived PDRN, making it suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin. In January 2025, Ahn-Gook signed an MOU with Yeonje-gu Pharmacy Association to strengthen pharmacy cosmetic expertise and counseling services.
Ildong Pharmaceutical released 'Rejunic PDRN Rejuvenating & Repair Cream' in late 2024, containing 15,000 ppm of sodium DNA from Alaskan salmon. The formula combines PDRN with EGF, bakuchiol, centella asiatica extract, panthenol, 11 types of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and adenosine. The company completed skin irritation tests and plans continuous product launches with pharmacy-focused marketing.
What buyers should watch
Overseas importers and distributors should monitor the Korean pharmacy channel's premium positioning, which relies on functional ingredients and pharmacist consultation rather than price competition. The trend of combining PDRN with EGF, centella, retinol, and hyaluronic acid suggests growing demand for multi-functional cosmeceuticals. Companies are also filing multiple trademark applications for aesthetic-related products, indicating potential expansion beyond pharmacies into medical aesthetics and export markets.
Compliance and logistics signals
PDRN remains regulated as a pharmaceutical ingredient in many markets; buyers should verify local classification for cosmetics containing PDRN. South Korean manufacturers are developing both animal-derived and plant-based PDRN variants, which may affect import regulations and labeling requirements. The increasing number of patent filings around PDRN formulations could lead to intellectual property considerations for formulators and distributors.
China sourcing context
South Korea's advanced derma-cosmetic sector offers a reliable supply of PDRN-based ingredients and finished products for Chinese buyers seeking clinically validated cosmeceuticals. The country's regulatory framework for functional cosmetics is well-established, and Korean manufacturers are experienced in exporting to China. However, buyers should note that PDRN's pharmaceutical heritage may require additional documentation for cosmetic import registration in China.
Source: Read the original report | Published: April 13, 2026