Medicube PDRN capsule cream: what it is and how to use it

What is Medicube PDRN cream?

The US listing names salmon DNA PDRN, collagen, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide as key ingredients in the 55 g Capsule Cream. Medicube also positions the cream for uneven tone care. The brand calls the desired finish a "glass glow", which describes the appearance rather than a new building material.1

What does PDRN actually do?

PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide, a material made from DNA fragments. Most PDRN research and clinical use have involved injections. How PDRN behaves when applied to the skin, including how effectively it reaches living skin layers, is still being worked out. A topical cream and an injection are different delivery methods, even when the ingredient gets the same four letters on the packaging.2

Topical PDRN has shown promising results with a particular preparation called PDRN 850K. A 0.1% eye cream containing that preparation improved eye area wrinkles and other measures over 28 days. For Medicube's Capsule Cream, a reliable timeline for wrinkle or firmness changes is not known. Treat hydration and the cosmetic finish as the reason to consider it, rather than expecting an injection style result.12

PDRN has also been used through local and systemic administration to support wound healing, including effects on cell growth, blood vessel formation and inflammation. Those medical uses are separate from using a facial moisturizer. Do not choose the capsule cream as a treatment for a wound.3

Where does the capsule cream go in your routine?

Medicube's PDRN set routine follows this order:

1. 1Prepare the skin with the PDRN Gel Pad.
2. 2Apply the Salmon PDRN Serum.
3. 3Apply the PDRN Capsule Cream.
4. 4Apply the PDRN Eye Cream.

What is Medicube PDRN eye cream?

Medicube PDRN Pink Eye Cream is a separate 30 ml product marketed for fine line care, firmness and under eye radiance. Its key ingredient list includes salmon DNA PDRN, retinol, peptides and niacinamide. The capsule cream and eye cream are different products, despite names that seem to have come from the same pink committee.1

What should make you stop using it?

Stop applying the cream if it causes burning, pain, itching or a rash, and wash the affected area with plenty of water. Contact dermatitis means skin inflammation after contact with an irritating substance or an allergen. Irritation can develop quickly or after repeated use; an allergic rash often appears 24 to 48 hours after exposure. Having tolerated a moisturizer before does not rule out a later allergy.4

People with atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema, have a higher risk of irritant contact dermatitis. Fragrances in moisturizers can trigger allergic contact dermatitis. If you have recurring reactions to cosmetics, a clinician can use patch testing to help identify the trigger.4

Contact a clinician for severe pain, blisters around the eyes, constant itching, fever, or signs of infection such as warmth, yellow or green fluid, or red streaks. Get the rash checked if it remains after a week of treatment. Seek immediate medical attention for a sudden rash that spreads quickly, trouble breathing or facial swelling.5