With science continuously reshaping the beauty industry, one skincare ingredient has quickly become one of K-beauty's biggest exports: PDRN or polydeoxyribonucleotide. Traditionally derived from salmon DNA, the ingredient has gained popularity for its role in regenerative treatments and skincare, appearing in everything from injectable procedures to topical products.

As the category continues to evolve, plant-based alternatives are beginning to emerge. On Aug. 25, Dermlab+ by Fresh introduced its new Lumi Rejucare skincare line, combining rose vegan PDRN with Cica exosome in a cleanser, toner, and cream designed for everyday use.

During the launch held at Whitespace Makati, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Bea Chan-Benavidez explained why vegan PDRN may have an advantage over topical salmon-derived versions.

According to Dr. Bea, PDRN consists of DNA fragments that act as biosignaling molecules, helping strengthen the skin barrier, support cellular regeneration, and provide deep hydration. While traditional salmon-derived PDRN has been shown to be effective when administered through injections, she said topical versions face a challenge.

"Their main limiting factor comes from the fact that you can't absorb them topically," she explained. Rose vegan PDRN, on the other hand, is 200 times smaller than traditional salmon-derived PDRN, making it easier for the skin to absorb. Better absorption, she said, could translate to faster results.

The new line also combines vegan PDRN with Cica exosome, which packages centella asiatica into nano-sized carrier vesicles to help the ingredient penetrate deeper into the skin. According to her, this combination helps calm inflammation, including redness, itching, and swelling, while supporting collagen production in as fast as two months. The formula also contains alpha arbutin for gentle brightening and saccharide isomerate, a biomimetic humectant that binds to the skin to provide up to 72 hours of hydration.

Together, she said, these ingredients address what she considers the three pillars of healthy skin: a resilient skin barrier, even-looking skin tone, and long-lasting hydration.

Dr. Bea also pointed out that plant-derived ingredients offer additional benefits, including being eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and less likely to trigger allergic reactions. She added that vegan rose PDRN is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, although she still recommends consulting a board-certified dermatologist before starting a new skincare routine.

She also debunked the notion that PDRN is only for mature skin.

"When we talk about cellular regeneration or healing, we are referring to an environment that fosters repair and recovery of your cells," she said. "No matter your age, you will benefit from using vegan rose PDRN because it helps build a stronger skin barrier, calm skin sensitivity, and fade hyperpigmentation."

Also introduced during the event was content creator Rei Germar as the face of the campaign. A long-time Fresh user, Rei said she appreciated that the new collection allows users to incorporate PDRN into their existing skincare routine instead of replacing it entirely.

She also shared that among the three products, her favorite is the cream, describing it as lightweight and quickly absorbed, making it easy to layer with other products. As she approaches her 30s, Rei said skincare has become more focused on maintaining a healthy skin barrier than simply chasing anti-aging products.

"It's never too early for anti-aging and barriers," she said. "Here in the Philippines, not a lot of people talk about their skin barrier and how a lot of things really affect it."

She added that the collection fits her busy lifestyle because it offers a straightforward routine while incorporating trending ingredients such as PDRN and Cica exosome.