Salmon PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask
Salmon PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask
Product Description
Product overview
An innovative color-changing jelly gel mask from MediCube that combines salmon-derived PDRN, low-molecular hydrolyzed collagen, niacinamide, and a 13-peptide complex to firm, brighten, and deeply hydrate skin. The ultra-thin 1mm pink gel layer turns transparent as actives absorb, signaling optimal delivery for that signature K-beauty glass-glow finish.
Salmon PDRN Power
Polydeoxyribonucleotide fragments derived from salmon DNA signal fibroblast activity to support collagen renewal and skin regeneration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSalmon PDRN Power
Polydeoxyribonucleotide fragments derived from salmon DNA signal fibroblast activity to support collagen renewal and skin regeneration.
Color-Changing Indicator
The pink jelly turns transparent as actives absorb into your skin — a visual cue that the treatment has been fully delivered.
Low-Molecular Collagen
Hydrolyzed collagen (~12,000 Da) with average 300ppm concentration penetrates deeper than traditional collagen for a plumping, firming effect.
Instant Cooling
The 1mm gel layer drops skin temperature by approximately 7.9°C on application, soothing redness and calming irritation immediately.
13-Peptide Complex
A multi-peptide blend including Argireline, Copper Peptide, and Matrixyl targets fine lines, elasticity, and overall skin firmness.
Dual-Use Eye Patches
The mask comes with pop-out eye patches you can apply to areas needing extra targeted treatment — under-eyes, smile lines, or forehead.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Niacinamide and peptides are considered safe during pregnancy.
Contains Laureth-21, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, and Tocopherol — ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Water-based gel formula with no occlusive oils. Highly unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C serums (already contains ascorbic acid), and hyaluronic acid. Avoid layering with strong AHA/BHA the same night.
Includes Parfum (fragrance). Patch test if you have very reactive or fragrance-sensitive skin.
Contains salmon-derived Sodium DNA and hydrolyzed collagen (commonly fish-sourced). Cruelty-free but not plant-based.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalmon PDRN (Sodium DNA) ~0.1–1%Promising
Polydeoxyribonucleotide fragments — short chains of nucleotides extracted from salmon — that activate A2A receptors on fibroblast cells, signaling skin to ramp up collagen production, regeneration, and wound healing.
- Mechanism: Salmon DNA is structurally similar enough to human DNA that it triggers fibroblast receptors to begin cellular repair and collagen synthesis.
- Clinical use: The injectable form (Rejuran Healer) was approved by Korea's MFDS in 2014 and is widely used in dermatology clinics for skin regeneration.
- Topical efficacy: Most peer-reviewed PDRN studies use injectable forms, so topical absorption depth is more limited but supports surface hydration and barrier health.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2–5%Proven
Listed 5th on the INCI, suggesting a meaningful percentage. A multitasking vitamin that brightens dark spots, refines pore appearance, strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces redness.
- Function: Recharges NAD levels in skin cells to support collagen production, repair cell damage, and strengthen the moisture barrier.
- Clinical evidence: Multiple randomized trials confirm 2–5% niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and TEWL (transepidermal water loss).
- Tolerance: Considered one of the most well-tolerated actives — safe for sensitive skin, pregnancy, and all skin types.
Hydrolyzed Collagen 300 ppmPromising
Low-molecular-weight (~12,000 Da) collagen peptides that bind water and act as humectants on the skin's surface, leaving skin smoother and more cushioned.
- Brand claim: 300ppm concentration of low-molecular collagen for deeper penetration than standard collagen (which sits around 300,000 Da).
- Clinical results: MediCube's human application test reported 79.9% improvement in surface hydration immediately and 39.4% improvement in 24-hour moisture retention.
- Function: Acts primarily as a moisture-binding humectant rather than literally rebuilding skin collagen.
13-Peptide Complex <1% combinedPromising
Includes Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline), Copper Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl), and 10 others — a multi-peptide blend targeting fine lines, elasticity, and skin signaling.
- Argireline: Often marketed as "Botox-like" for its ability to soften expression lines, though clinical evidence on topical efficacy is mixed.
- Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu): A well-studied peptide associated with improved skin firmness, wound healing, and antioxidant activity.
- Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4): Shown in studies to support collagen synthesis comparable to retinol but with less irritation.
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) tracePromising
Listed near the end of the ingredient list — present at low concentrations, paired with Cyanocobalamin (B12) and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) for an antioxidant trio.
- Function: Brightens skin tone, evens out hyperpigmentation, and supports collagen synthesis when used at higher concentrations (typically 8–20% for active brightening).
- Concentration note: At trace levels here, expect mild antioxidant support rather than dramatic brightening — the niacinamide does most of the brightening work.
Allantoin & Panthenol ~0.5–1%Proven
A classic soothing duo: Allantoin calms irritation and supports cell turnover, while Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) deeply hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Allantoin: Helps shed dead skin cells gently and accelerates wound healing. Generally non-irritating at typical use levels (0.1–2%).
- Panthenol: Increases skin hydration, reduces redness, and improves elasticity. Widely used in barrier-repair products.
43 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Copolymer, Niacinamide, Chondrus Crispus Powder, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Betaine, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum, Hydroxyacetophenone, Allantoin, Glucomannan, Xanthan Gum, Laureth-21, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Propanediol, Cellulose Gum, Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum, Fragrance (Parfum), Potassium Chloride, Dextrin, Adenosine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Cyanocobalamin, Ascorbic Acid, Sodium DNA, Tocopherol, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Ascorbic Acid Polypeptide, Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9, Carnosine, Copper Tripeptide-1, Nonapeptide-1, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final step of your evening routine, or as a special-occasion treatment 2–3 times per week. The mask itself acts as a sealing layer, so moisturizer is optional after.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse and Tone
Start with a clean, slightly damp face. Apply your usual toner or hydrating essence to prep the skin for maximum absorption.
Apply Serum (Optional)
If you use a treatment serum, apply it now and let it fully absorb before placing the mask on top.
Place the Pink Gel Mask
Open the pouch and gently place the pink jelly mask directly onto your face, smoothing it from the center outward. Adjust the eye and mouth holes for fit.
Pop Out the Eye Patches
Remove the small eye patches and apply them to areas that need extra targeted care — under-eyes, smile lines, forehead, or 11s.
Wear 1–4 Hours or Overnight
Leave on for 1–4 hours during the day, or wear overnight as a sleeping mask. The pink gel will gradually turn transparent as it absorbs.
Remove and Pat In
Peel off the mask and gently pat any remaining essence into the skin. No rinsing required. Follow with sunscreen if used in the morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to firm and brighten skin without invasive treatments
- You're chasing the K-beauty "glass-glow" finish
- You have early signs of fine lines or loss of elasticity
- You enjoy treatment masks as a weekly self-care ritual
- You have dehydrated, dull, or stressed-looking skin
- You want a topical alternative to in-clinic salmon PDRN injectables
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You're sensitive to fragrance in skincare
- You prefer fully vegan / fish-free formulations
- You want a quick 15-minute mask (this needs 1+ hours)
- You're on a tight budget — luxury single-use price point
- You expect dramatic anti-aging from a single mask
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel won't clog pores, but can feel slightly tacky during long wear. Niacinamide helps refine pore appearance.
Glycerin, panthenol, and hydrolyzed collagen deliver intensive hydration. Ideal as an overnight sleeping treatment.
Balances hydration on dry zones without overloading the T-zone. Niacinamide controls oil while peptides plump cheeks.
Dermatologically tested and free of harsh actives, but contains fragrance. A minority of users report tingling — patch test first.
Low comedogenic risk, but the formula is not fungal-acne safe due to Laureth-21 and polyglyceryl esters.
PDRN, peptides, niacinamide, and hydrolyzed collagen target loss of elasticity, fine lines, and dullness — the perfect anti-aging stack.
Results timeline
2–4 WEEKS (WEEKLY USE)Glass-Skin Glow & Cooling
Skin temperature drops by approximately 7.9°C, redness calms, and the surface looks plump, dewy, and luminous. MediCube's clinical test reported 79.9% improvement in surface hydration immediately.
~95% noticedSustained Moisture & Bounce
Brand testing showed 39.4% improvement in moisture retention 24 hours post-application, with skin feeling softer and more cushioned. The "glow" effect typically lasts 1–2 days.
~80% noticedTexture & Fine Line Smoothing
Brand-reported clinical results after one use: 8.2% improvement in skin texture, 9.3% improvement in fine lines around the eyes, and 2.9% increase in overall skin elasticity. Independent results vary.
~65% noticedCumulative Firmness & Brightening
Used 2–3 times weekly, expect more even skin tone, improved bounce, and softer fine lines as PDRN signaling and peptide effects compound. Niacinamide brightening becomes more visible.
~55% noticedRatings by platform
6K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instant glass-skin glow after one use
- Cooling sensation soothes redness immediately
- Color-changing visual cue is fun and informative
- Multi-active stack: PDRN + collagen + 13 peptides + niacinamide
- Pop-out eye patches add targeted treatment
- Works as overnight sleeping mask without rinsing
- Backed by brand human application clinical data
- Won Shop TODAY Beauty Awards recognition
Criticized
- Premium price point for single-use product
- Long wear time (1–4 hours) before transparency
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Laureth-21, esters)
- Contains fragrance — may bother very sensitive users
- Not vegan (salmon-derived ingredients)
- Some users report tingling on first use
- Plastic single-use packaging (sustainability concern)
- Effects largely fade within 1–2 days
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESNearly identical concept: salmon DNA PDRN, low-molecular collagen, and an 11-peptide complex in a pink-to-clear color-changing format. Less established brand but very similar formulation at roughly half the per-mask cost.
Similar pink jelly format and salmon DNA PDRN with hydrolyzed collagen. Marketed specifically as an overnight sleeping mask. Lacks the 13-peptide complex but covers the core hydration and firming benefits.
A traditional sheet mask format rather than jelly gel — no color-changing effect or eye patches, but unbeatable value at roughly $1.23 per mask for daily PDRN use over a full month.
Not a mask, but covers the peptide benefits at a much lower per-use cost. Lacks PDRN, hydrolyzed collagen, and the cooling gel experience — better as a daily complement than a true replacement.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEBeauty of Joseon Hanbang Sheet Mask (Calendula)
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHSSingle-use sealed pouch — use immediately after opening. Manufactured shelf life is approximately 24 months unopened.
Store unopened sachets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigerate before use for an extra cooling boost.
Individually sealed foil sachet with PET tray. Single-use only — discard after one application.
Yes — well under 100ml liquid limit. Compact sachet format is TSA-compliant and ideal for in-flight skincare.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this mask is generally considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. The main actives (niacinamide, peptides, hydrolyzed collagen, salmon PDRN, allantoin, panthenol) are all considered low-risk during pregnancy. That said, always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing new skincare during pregnancy, and patch test before first use.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Laureth-21 (a polysorbate-like ingredient), Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, and Tocopherol — all of which can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and trigger flare-ups in people with fungal acne. If you struggle with Malassezia folliculitis, look for an FA-safe alternative like Beauty of Joseon's Calendula sheet mask or PURITO's Centella line.
Yes, with smart layering. The mask itself contains a trace amount of ascorbic acid and is gentle enough to layer over most actives. Best practice: apply your active treatment (retinol, vitamin C serum, AHA/BHA toner) first, let it absorb fully, then apply the gel mask on top. The peptides and niacinamide will not conflict. However, avoid pairing it with strong overnight retinol the same evening if you're new to actives — alternate nights instead.
This mask is most effective for dry, dehydrated, mature, and combination skin chasing the K-beauty glass-glow finish. Oily and acne-prone users tolerate it well due to its low comedogenic rating, but should avoid it if they have fungal acne. Sensitive skin users generally do well — the formula is dermatologically tested and free of harsh actives — but the fragrance and trace ascorbic acid may cause mild tingling for very reactive skin types, so patch test first.
Most users report visible glass-skin glow, plumping, and softer texture immediately after a single use — MediCube's clinical data shows 79.9% improvement in surface hydration right after application. Cumulative benefits like firmer skin, softer fine lines, and brighter tone develop over 2–4 weeks of consistent use (2–3 times per week). The "instant" effects largely fade within 1–2 days, so this works best as a regular treatment rather than a one-off product.
Use this as the final step of your evening skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, and any treatment serums. The mask itself acts as a sealing layer, so you can skip moisturizer afterward (or apply a thin layer if your skin is very dry). For daytime use, follow with sunscreen. Wear time is 1–4 hours during the day or overnight as a sleeping mask. Recommended frequency: 2–3 times per week.
No, this mask has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5 — very low. It's a water-based gel with no occlusive oils, butters, or heavy silicones. The formula is unlikely to clog pores for most skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin (though again, it's not fungal acne safe). MediCube also markets this as suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin, with dermatological testing.
This is a single-use product designed to be used immediately after opening the foil sachet. There is no PAO (Period After Opening) since one mask = one use. The unopened sachet has a typical shelf life of about 24 months from manufacturing. Do not save partially used masks — once exposed to air, the gel will dry out and the actives can degrade. Store unopened sachets in a cool, dry place, or refrigerate them for an extra cooling sensation on application.
Verdict: The MediCube Salmon PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask is a thoughtfully formulated luxury treatment that delivers genuine instant gratification — the cooling effect, glass-skin glow, and color-changing absorption indicator make it feel like an at-home spa session. The active stack of salmon PDRN, low-molecular hydrolyzed collagen, niacinamide, and 13 peptides addresses firmness, brightness, hydration, and fine lines simultaneously. The clinical-test-backed claims and 4.4–4.7 average ratings across major retailers reinforce its reputation. Drawbacks are real but predictable for the category: premium per-use cost, fragrance-containing, not fungal-acne safe, and not vegan. Best suited for dry-to-mature skin chasing the K-beauty glow, or as an occasional "treat yourself" mask before special events. If you want a topical alternative to in-clinic salmon DNA treatments, this is currently one of the most well-formulated options on the market.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate Copolymer
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|





