Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN, also referred to as polynucleotides) is an increasingly popular ingredient used in skincare products and aesthetic treatments. Commonly derived from salmon DNA, it is said to boost collagen production and repair the skin barrier. But, up until now, it’s commonly been reserved for in-clinic facials. Now, Medik8 has launched a new serum containing vegan-friendly polynucleotide.
Designed for use after cleansing, the brand claims the form of PDRN in this serum penetrates deeply into skin layers to offer soothing and smoothing benefits.
There are other scientific-sounding names in the ingredients list, too, including triple exosome complex and GF mini protein. In short, these are designed to help support skin barrier health and boost collagen and elastin.
I spent a fortnight testing Medik8’s exo-PDRN primastic+ youthful vitality serum, adding it into my usual skincare routine to see whether it can deliver the rejuvenation it promises. As a busy mum with dry skin that is prone to sensitivity, I look for products that easily slot into my skincare routine – while being worth the price tag. Here’s how I got on.
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Medik8 exo-PDRN prismatic+ youthful vitality serum
Rating: 4/5
Why we love it
- Refreshing
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Smoothing
- Visible results in two weeks
Take note
- Pricey
The formula has a glossy, slightly runny consistency that glides on easily and has a soothing, cooling finish. It’s designed for use on cleansed skin in the morning and evening, so the refreshing application is welcome at both ends of the day.
Rather than absorbing instantly, it takes a few seconds, but once it has, there’s no trace or residue left, just a feeling of softened skin. As the first step in my skincare routine, I was pleased by how well it layered with other products.
I have dry skin that can often look full, but after a week’s use (of twice daily application), my skin looked smoother and the texture more even. I also found it looked brighter and more radiant.
My skin can also be reactive and prone to irritation, but I didn’t experience any sensitivity with the serum. Instead, my skin felt soft and hydrated with the ingredients promising to protect the natural barrier over time.
Medik8 products do come with a premium price tag, and £79 is a notable cost for skincare. However, I’m impressed with the results so far. While I can’t comment on long-term use or signs of a collagen boost, this product delivers everything I’d look for in a serum – with the key benefits being hydration, luminosity, and a smooth finish. I also liked the improvement to the overall texture and tone that I saw.
After two weeks’ use, I’ll definitely continue my twice-a-day application of this product and am keen to see any further results as time goes on.
Key specifications
Buy now £79.48, Medik8.com
Is the Medik8 exo-PDRN prismatic+ youthful vitality serum worth it?
The Medik8 exo-PDRN prismatic+ youthful vitality serum is a refreshing skincare layer that creates a smooth, softening finish. While it’s a luxury product, I noted an improvement in tone and texture with use and saw a radiant finish, too. It’s tricky to gauge long-term results after just a fortnight’s testing, but the serum has definitely earned a place in my daily skincare lineup based on my experience so far. I’m looking forward to keeping an eye on how these benefits may progress in the coming weeks and months, too.
How I tested Medik8’s exo-PDRN prismatic+ youthful vitality serum
I wanted to see if the ingredients could add radiance and smoothness, how the formula felt and looked on my skin, and whether there was any immediate or long-wearing difference. I consdiered the following:
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
Helen Wilson-Beevers is a beauty journalist who has been testing skincare products for over a decade. Within this time, she has given her verdict on products from brands including The Ordinary, The Inkey List, Perricone MD and CeraVe. She is an expert in assessing products to help promote skin health. As a 42-year-old with dry and sometimes sensitive skin, Helen is able to recognise exactly how potent and effective a product is for anti-ageing benefits.
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