Description
What it is
PDRN has become one of the most searched ingredients in Korean skincare, and VT’s PDRN Essence 100 is one of the best-known products in the trend. PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a DNA fragment ingredient that has been used in Korean clinics, and cosmetic brands now add DNA-based ingredients to serums and creams. VT says this essence uses a plant-based PDRN from wild ginseng, which it calls PHYTO PDRN PANAX, and the ingredient list also shows sodium DNA.
The texture is a silky, milky essence that sinks in fast without stickiness. Around the PDRN, the brand has stacked a barrier-friendly base: five ceramides, niacinamide, panthenol, squalane and allantoin. It is a skin-comfort product rather than a strong active, so it fits easily into most routines morning and night.
Key ingredients
- Panax ginseng root extract: the source of what VT markets as its plant-based PDRN, high in the list.
- Sodium DNA: a DNA-derived ingredient associated with the PDRN trend, used for skin conditioning.
- Ceramides NP, NS, AS, EOP and AP: a full set of barrier lipids to help skin hold moisture.
- Niacinamide: for a more even, brighter-looking tone.
- Squalane and panthenol: soften skin and help it feel comfortable.
- Adenosine: included for the look of smoother, firmer skin.
Product details
| Brand | VT Cosmetics, South Korea |
|---|---|
| Line | PDRN |
| Size | 30 ml |
| Format | Milky essence in a bottle |
| Main concerns | Dehydration, dullness, weakened barrier, early signs of ageing |
| Skin types | Normal, dry, combination; most skin types |
| When to use | Morning and evening, after toner |
| Fragrance | No added fragrance listed |
How to use
- Cleanse and apply toner.
- Dispense a small amount and spread it over the face and neck.
- Pat gently until absorbed.
- Follow with your serum or moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning.
Tip: it layers well under a ceramide cream at night and under a light gel in the morning.
Who it suits
It suits people who want to try PDRN without a strong active, especially dry or dehydrated skin and anyone rebuilding the barrier after over-exfoliating. It pairs well with VT’s spicule boosters on alternate nights. For more barrier-friendly ideas, see our Korean skincare guide for sensitive skin.
Who should be careful
Several oils and esters in the formula, including isopropyl myristate and sunflower and baobab seed oils, are often avoided by people prone to fungal acne or clogged pores. Sodium DNA is commonly derived from fish, so check with the brand if you avoid animal-derived ingredients or have a fish allergy.
Patch test first. Apply a small amount to the inner forearm or behind the ear and wait 24 to 48 hours before using it on the face.
Full ingredient list
Water, Isopropyl Myristate, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glycerin, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tocopherol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arginine, Adenosine, Ceramide NP, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Disodium EDTA, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Allantoin, Squalane, Panthenol, Polyglucuronic Acid, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AS, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide AP, Sodium DNA.
Notes: no added fragrance and no drying alcohol are listed. No tree nut oils are listed (baobab and sunflower are seed oils). The source of the sodium DNA is not stated on the label.
Frequently asked questions
What is PDRN in skincare?
PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide, a DNA-fragment ingredient. In cosmetics, brands use it for skin conditioning and the look of healthier, bouncier skin.
Is VT PDRN Essence 100 vegan?
VT promotes a plant-based ginseng PDRN, but the list also includes sodium DNA, whose source is not specified. Check with the brand if this matters to you.
Can I use it with Reedle Shot?
Yes. Many people use a Reedle Shot first and the essence after, or alternate them on different nights to keep things gentle.
Essence 100 or Capsule Cream 100?
The essence is a light first layer; the capsule cream is a moisturizer step. They can be used together.
Learn more
Find more picks in our list of the best Korean skincare products in Canada.
Ingredient lists can change between batches and markets. Always check the box you receive. This page is an independent guide; melaxin.ca does not sell products directly.
