Skip to content

PDRN Essence 100

PDRN Essence 100

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A concentrated milky essence by VT Cosmetics packed with 100,000ppm vegan PDRN derived from Korean wild ginseng, five types of ceramides, and polyglucuronic acid to boost skin elasticity, deliver a luminous glow, and strengthen the moisture barrier for visibly firmer, more radiant skin.

Vegan PDRN (Plant-Derived) 100,000ppm PDRN Fragrance-Free 5 Ceramide Complex Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Sulfate-Free Alcohol-Free
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
3/5
Size
30ml / 1.01 fl.oz
Type
Essence
Concerns
Anti-Aging, Glow
Key Active
PDRN 100,000ppm
Brand
VT Cosmetics
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Vegan PDRN from Korean Ginseng

100,000ppm of plant-derived PDRN sourced from wild Korean ginseng (not fish) supports skin cell regeneration and elasticity at the cellular level.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Milky / Creamy
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
15-30 seconds
Finish
Dewy / Glowy

Vegan PDRN from Korean Ginseng

100,000ppm of plant-derived PDRN sourced from wild Korean ginseng (not fish) supports skin cell regeneration and elasticity at the cellular level.

5 Ceramide Complex (Cerasome Plus)

Five types of ceramides (NP, NS, AS, EOP, AP) form a lipid barrier layer that locks in moisture and defends against environmental stressors.

Polyglucuronic Acid Glow

Creates a post-spa healthy glow effect by deeply hydrating and refining skin texture for a luminous, glass-skin finish.

Soothing & Barrier Support

Panthenol, squalane, and allantoin calm irritation, promote healing, and maintain a healthy, resilient skin barrier.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains isopropyl myristate, PEG-30 dipolyhydroxystearate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate, and sunflower seed oil which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.

Comedogenic Rating: 3/5

Contains isopropyl myristate (comedogenic rating 5) which may clog pores in some individuals. Patch test recommended for acne-prone skin.

Free From Harsh Irritants

No fragrances, parabens, sulfates, silicones, drying alcohols, or common allergens. Low irritation potential confirmed by dermatological testing.

Compatible with Retinol & Vitamin C

No conflicting active ingredients. Can be safely layered with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs in your routine.

Vegan PDRN Source

PDRN is derived from Korean wild ginseng (Panax ginseng) rather than salmon or trout DNA, making it a vegan-friendly alternative.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

PHYTO PDRN (Sodium DNA from Panax Ginseng) 100,000ppmPromising

Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) consists of DNA fragments that encourage skin cell regeneration by stimulating fibroblast proliferation, which supports collagen production and elasticity. This vegan version is extracted from Korean wild ginseng.

  • Source: Derived from Panax ginseng root (cultivated near Jirisan Mountain, South Korea)
  • Mechanism: Activates A2A purinergic receptors, promoting tissue repair and wound healing
  • Clinical note: Most robust research exists for injectable PDRN; topical application shows milder but promising effects on hydration and firmness
PDRN is a large molecule with limited skin penetration when applied topically. Effects are milder compared to injectable forms. This formula uses low-molecular-weight PDRN for better absorption.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2-5%Proven

A well-researched multifunctional ingredient that brightens skin tone, reduces inflammation, minimizes pore appearance, strengthens the skin barrier by boosting ceramide synthesis, and helps fade hyperpigmentation.

  • Evidence: Extensive clinical data supports anti-aging, brightening, and barrier-strengthening effects at 2-5% concentrations
  • Synergy: Works well alongside ceramides and panthenol to reinforce the skin barrier
Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin. One of the most versatile and evidence-backed actives in skincare.

5 Types of Ceramides (NP, NS, AS, EOP, AP) 0.05-0.70%Proven

Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the skin barrier. This formula uses five different ceramide types encapsulated in a Cerasome Complex Plus delivery system to mimic the skin's natural lipid structure and lock in hydration.

  • Function: Fill intercellular gaps in the stratum corneum, preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental damage
  • Delivery: Cerasome technology uses hydrogenated lecithin to form liposomal structures for better penetration

Polyglucuronic AcidPromising

A polysaccharide that provides deep hydration and creates a luminous film on the skin surface, delivering a post-spa glow effect. It refines skin texture and enhances overall complexion radiance.

  • Mechanism: Forms a moisture-retaining layer on the skin while improving light reflection for a visible glow
  • Benefit: Works synergistically with PDRN and ceramides for plumping and radiance

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)Proven

A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that soothes irritation, promotes wound healing, and helps strengthen the skin barrier by stimulating lipid production. Widely regarded as one of the safest and most effective soothing ingredients.

  • Evidence: Clinical studies confirm moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-repair properties
  • Irritancy: Comedogenic rating of 0; extremely well tolerated even on sensitive and baby skin

SqualaneProven

A lightweight, plant-derived emollient that mimics the skin's natural sebum. Excellent for all skin types, including acne-prone and fungal-acne-prone skin. Nourishes and softens without clogging pores.

  • Source: Hydrogenated squalene (stable, non-oxidizing form)
  • Benefits: Replenishes lost lipids, smooths skin texture, and supports barrier function

Adenosine 0.20-0.70%Proven

A naturally occurring compound approved as an anti-wrinkle functional ingredient in South Korea. Shown in clinical trials to help reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles, especially in dynamic expression areas.

  • Evidence: Peer-reviewed research demonstrates wrinkle-smoothing efficacy at topical concentrations
  • Regulation: Classified as an anti-wrinkle active by Korean FDA (MFDS)

31 ingredients

Water, Isopropyl Myristate, Panax Ginseng (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 (Sunflower) 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

FREE FROM: Fragrances, Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Drying Alcohols, Common Allergens, Gluten, Coconut-Derived Ingredients, Petroleum-Based Ingredients, Mineral Oil, Artificial Colors
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
PDRN Essence 100
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Use AM and PM after toner. Can also be mixed with foundation for a healthy glow or layered over VT Reedle Shot for enhanced results.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Tone

Start with a clean face. After cleansing, apply your toner and let it absorb.

2

Dispense the Essence

Pump a moderate amount onto your palm. Tip the bottle so the pump aligns straight with your palm for a clean dispense.

3

Apply to Face & Neck

Spread the essence from the center of your face outward, covering cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. Extend to the neck.

4

Press & Absorb

Gently press with your palms to aid absorption. The milky texture will absorb within 15-30 seconds leaving a dewy glow.

5

Continue Your Routine

Follow with serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). At night, pair with VT Reedle Shot beforehand for boosted results.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want a dewy, glass-skin glow without heavy layering
  • Your skin is losing firmness or showing early fine lines (ages 25-50+)
  • You prefer vegan, plant-derived alternatives to fish-based PDRN
  • You have dry or dehydrated skin that needs deep nourishment
  • You want a fragrance-free, gentle formula for daily AM/PM use
  • You love multi-step K-beauty routines and want an essence step

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
  • You are highly acne-prone and react to isopropyl myristate
  • You prefer a completely watery/lightweight essence texture
  • You want a larger bottle size for better cost-per-ml value
  • You need proven, decades-researched anti-aging actives (retinol)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

Rich in ceramides, squalane, and emollients that deeply nourish and lock in hydration. Ideal for dry, flaky skin.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Balanced hydration and glow without heaviness. Absorbs well and pairs easily with any moisturizer.

Combination Skin
Good

Works well overall but may feel slightly rich on oily zones. Apply a thinner layer on the T-zone.

Oily Skin
Moderate

The milky, emollient-rich texture may feel too nourishing for very oily skin. Best used in PM or in small amounts.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free with soothing panthenol and allantoin. Low irritation potential, but always patch test first.

Acne-Prone Skin
Moderate

Contains isopropyl myristate (comedogenic rating 5). May trigger breakouts in clog-prone skin. Patch test first.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2-3
Day 1

Immediate Glow & Hydration

Skin appears visibly more radiant and plumped with moisture right after the first application. The dewy, glass-skin finish is noticeable immediately.

90% noticed instant glow
Week 1-2

Improved Hydration & Smoothness

Skin feels consistently more hydrated and smoother to the touch. Dry patches diminish and overall texture starts to refine as the ceramide complex reinforces the barrier.

75% reported softer skin
Week 3-4

Firmer, More Elastic Skin

Elasticity begins to improve as PDRN supports cell regeneration. Fine lines around the eyes and forehead appear less pronounced. Skin tone looks more even.

65% saw firming improvements
Month 2-3

Visible Anti-Aging Results

With consistent daily use, overall skin quality improves noticeably. Wrinkles appear softened, radiance is sustained, and the moisture barrier feels stronger and more resilient.

55% noticed wrinkle reduction
09

Ratings by platform

7K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
1,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small bottle (30ml) for the price, some felt it was too rich for oily skin
YesStyle
4.5
Rating
350+
Reviews
Main complaint: Slightly prickly or tingling sensation upon first use for some users
Ulta
4.4
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Pump can be messy when dispensing the thin formula; pricey per ounce
Olive Young
4.7
Rating
5,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Effect is subtle and takes time; milky texture unexpected by those expecting a clear essence
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Delivers an immediate dewy, glass-skin glow after application
  • Vegan PDRN sourced from ginseng (not fish), appealing for ethical consumers
  • Fragrance-free and gentle — suitable for sensitive skin
  • Five types of ceramides strengthen the moisture barrier
  • Works as a primer or can be mixed into foundation for a glowy base
  • Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue
  • Available at mainstream retailers (Ulta, Amazon, Olive Young)

Criticized

  • Small 30ml bottle size feels expensive relative to the amount
  • Contains isopropyl myristate — may clog pores for acne-prone users
  • Not fungal acne safe due to several FA-triggering ingredients
  • Topical PDRN has limited clinical research compared to injectable forms
  • Can feel too heavy or nourishing for oily skin types
  • Pump design can be messy with the thin milky formula
  • Some users report a slight tingling sensation on first application
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
$21.00
Budget Pick

100ml for a fraction of the price. Uses snail mucin instead of PDRN for repair and glow, with allantoin and panthenol. Lighter, more watery texture. Not vegan (snail-derived) but offers similar hydrating and plumping results.

70% Match
Dive-In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam
$15.00
Budget Pick

50ml vegan serum focusing on 5 types of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration. Lighter, watery texture without the milky feel. Lacks PDRN and ceramides but excels at pure hydration. Fungal-acne safe.

68% Match
No.3 Skin Softening Serum
$18.00
Budget Pick

50ml with galactomyces ferment, niacinamide, and panthenol for brightening and glow. Different active mechanism (ferment-based vs PDRN) but delivers similar radiance results. Not fungal-acne safe due to ferments.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Key Active Snail Mucin 96%
Size 100ml
Texture Slimy / gel-like
Ceramides None
Fragrance None
FA Safe Yes
Price/ml $0.21/ml
Dive-in Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Key Active 5 Types Hyaluronic Acid
Size 50ml
Texture Watery serum
Ceramides None
Fragrance None
FA Safe Yes
Price/ml $0.30/ml
No.3 Skin Softening Serum
Key Active Galactomyces + Niacinamide
Size 50ml
Texture Lightweight serum
Ceramides None
Fragrance None
FA Safe No (ferments)
Price/ml $0.36/ml
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Packaging

Opaque pump bottle — protects light-sensitive ingredients like tocopherol and adenosine from degradation.

Travel Friendly

Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA/airline carry-on limit. Compact pump bottle is easy to pack.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. The VT Cosmetics PDRN Essence 100 does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The vegan PDRN from ginseng, niacinamide, ceramides, panthenol, and squalane are all considered safe for use during pregnancy. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

No. This product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including isopropyl myristate, PEG-30 dipolyhydroxystearate, polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate, and sunflower seed oil. If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like the Torriden DIVE-IN Serum or COSRX Snail 96 Mucin Essence instead.

Yes. The PDRN Essence 100 does not contain any active ingredients that conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. In fact, its soothing ingredients (panthenol, allantoin, ceramides) can help buffer potential irritation from these actives. Apply the essence after water-based treatments and before heavier serums or moisturizers.

The PDRN Essence 100 is best suited for dry, normal, and mature skin types that benefit from its rich, emollient-based formula with ceramides and squalane. Combination skin can also use it, especially in the PM. Those with very oily skin may find the milky texture too heavy and might prefer a lighter essence. It is formulated for ages 20s through 50s.

You can expect an immediate dewy glow and hydration boost from the first use. Improved skin texture and smoothness typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Firming and elasticity benefits generally become noticeable after 3-4 weeks, and more significant anti-aging improvements (fine line reduction, overall radiance) after 2-3 months of daily use.

Apply after cleansing and toning, in the essence step (Step 3 of a typical Korean skincare routine). Use it before serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. It can be used both AM and PM. VT Cosmetics also recommends pairing it after their Reedle Shot products for enhanced results, or mixing 1-3 drops into foundation as a glow-boosting primer.

The overall formulation has a comedogenic rating of approximately 3 out of 5, mainly due to isopropyl myristate, which individually has a comedogenic rating of 5. While many users with normal-to-dry skin have no issues, those with highly acne-prone or clog-prone skin should patch test first. If you know your skin reacts to isopropyl myristate, consider a different essence.

The PDRN Essence 100 has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. The opaque pump bottle helps protect light-sensitive ingredients. The 30ml size is compact enough that most users will finish it well within the 12-month window with daily use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The VT Cosmetics PDRN Essence 100 is an innovative K-beauty essence that delivers on its promise of instant glow and deep hydration, powered by a unique vegan PDRN complex from Korean wild ginseng and a robust five-ceramide barrier blend. It excels for dry, normal, and mature skin types seeking a radiant, plumped complexion without fragrances or harsh irritants. The main drawbacks are its small 30ml size (making it pricey per ml), its unsuitability for fungal acne sufferers, and the inclusion of isopropyl myristate which may concern acne-prone users. If PDRN's emerging research excites you and you value a vegan, fragrance-free glow essence, this is a strong choice — but those prioritizing proven anti-aging power or fungal acne safety should look elsewhere.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

Awesome, I Understand!

Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

Awesome, I Understand!

Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 8 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Tocopherol Adenosine Ceramide NP Ceramide Ns Ceramide As Ceramide AP Sodium DNA
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 8 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Tocopherol Arginine Adenosine Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil Allantoin Panthenol
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate Niacinamide
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
3
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
61% 38%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 31 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 B
Isopropyl Myristate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Binding Agent, Binding
1 A
Panax Ginseng Root Extract
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Tonic
1 A
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
1 B
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
ache Ache-fighting
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS