We Review The Viral Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
As someone who is in a constant tug of war with skin issues (hormonal acne, post-inflammation hyperpigmentation, and a reactive temperament, to name a few), there is little I won't do in the pursuit of perfect skin. But injecting salmon sperm into my face? Now, that's a step too far even for me. It may sound gross, but that hasn't stopped the likes of Charli XCX, Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Anniston touting salmon-sperm facials (AKA polynucleotide or PDRN treatments popularised in Korea) as their secret skincare weapon. It's worth mentioning that this particular beauty obsession is nowhere near as icky as it sounds. We're talking about purified DNA fragments extracted from salmon sperm, not salmon sperm itself. And the A-list set aren't the only ones who are hooked. TikTok currently plays home to 38.3K videos on the topic, while Boots declared PDRN therapy as its number one trend to watch for 2025 in the arena of healthcare and beauty advanced technologies. For those of us too squeamish to get on board with the buzzy beauty treatment, there is good news, K-beauty brands have managed to bottle up the fishy elixir into hardworking skincare serums and Korea's bestselling PDRN serum has just landed on home soil. Enter Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum, £20.
As a total K-beauty convert, I'm a sucker for Anua's skincare offerings thanks to the brand's use of natural active ingredients, which are at the centre of its gentle yet effective formulations. I count the Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam, £13, and Heartleaf 77 Toner Pads, £22, which both use anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial heartleaf extract to sooth skin, as some of my holy grail skincare essentials. But Anua's PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum is in hot pursuit of the top spot, here's why.
Sameeha using the Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
The emerald serum is loaded with a layered hyaluronic acid complex that works to deeply hydrate and low molecular hydrolysed collagen that quickly seeps into the skin, while the star of the show (yes, real) salmon sperm DNA helps to boost the skin's overall appearance and works in synergy with all the other ingredients to promote moisture retention, smoothness, and an uber-glowy finish.
Centring its newest viral product on PDRN means Anua is tapping into today's polynucleotide mania and a treatment that boasts a track record for clinically proven results, with various medical journals confirming the ingredients' demonstrated anti-inflammatory, tissue reparative, and wound healing properties. Dr. Ashwin Soni explains, 'Polynucleotides are long chains of DNA, sourced from salmon or trout sperm. These highly purified fragments of DNA are suspended in water and available as an injectable.'
When injected, the DNA integrates into the skin and starts signalling in three main ways, Dr Soni continues. 'Firstly, they stimulate fibroblast cells to multiply in number and boost their activity. As cell renewal improves, so will collagen production, hydration levels, and skin glow. Your skin becomes more resilient with improved elasticity and wrinkles start diminishing. Secondly, they are incredible antioxidants that scavenge free radicals that would normally set off cellular damage. Thirdly, they function as wound healing agents signalling your skin to intensely repair. As it enters repair mode, your skin's discolouration improves, leaving it looking more even in tone. Additionally, polynucleotides produce a mild increase in volume and tightening as an overall effect.'
Sameeha using the Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
The stark in-clinic results have made PDRN a wildly popular treatment, but while topical solutions rarely penetrate as deeply as more invasive therapies administered by medical professionals, the flurry of at-home PDRN formulas have been known to deliver impressive results. Anua's testing panel results for example proved a 24.64% immediate improvement in deep skin hydration after one use and 8.93% improvement in a moisture plumping effect. The serum's success is down to Anua's exclusive ultra-low molecular smart capsule technology, which helps to deliver 100% of the formula's key ingredients to the skin.
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'While I wasn't sure about the thought of injecting salon sperm DNA into my face, coating my skin in a topical version of the ingredient seemed somewhat more appealing when I heard about its seriously impressive benefits. The formula seems to tick a plethora of boxes, from surface level issues like hydration and hyperpigmentation to deep-seated concerns like cellular damage. As someone who has dealt with the lows of acne for years, I was eager to see how this serum faired on my textured, discoloured and reactive complexion. Straight off the bat, the serum is very runny and almost water-like but that adds to its ultra-soothing appeal. As you rub it in, it leaves a lightweight, slippery veil of hydration that really does last and leaves skin feeling comforted. I noticed an immediate reduction in my skin's irritability, redness and general angriness, and based on that alone I suspect it will continue to play well against any new bumpy problems. As for that glass skin finish? This delivers a bucket load.' 1.
Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
What the brand says: 'A hydrating emerald-toned serum infused with PDRN, hyaluronic acid, and collagen, designed to maintain moisture retention, smoothness, and natural radiance. Suitable for all seasons and versatile in application for a glowing, refreshed look.'
What we know: The serum is loaded with an 11-layered hyaluronic acid complex that works to deeply hydrate and low molecular hydrolysed collagen that quickly seeps into the skin, while the star of the show (yes, real) salmon sperm DNA helps to boost the skin's overall appearance and works in synergy with all other ingredients to promote skin-repairing, plumping, and radiance-boosting benefits.
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'While I wasn't sure about the thought of injecting salon sperm DNA into my face, coating my skin in a topical version of the ingredient seemed somewhat more appealing when I heard about its seriously impressive benefits. It is one of the rare ingredients that ticks a plethora of boxes, from surface level issues like hydration and hyperpigmentation to deep-seated concerns like cellular damage. As someone who has dealt with the lows of acne for years, I was eager to see how this serum faired on my textured, discoloured and reactive complexion. Straight off the bat, the serum is very runny and almost water-like but that adds to its ultra-soothing appeal. As you rub it in, it leaves a lightweight, slippery veil of hydration that really does last and leaves skin feeling comforted. I noticed an immediate reduction in my skin's irritability, redness and general angriness, and based on that alone I suspect it will continue to play well against any new bump problems. As for that glass skin finish? This delivers a bucket load. Fish DNA just upgraded my skincare routine for the better, who would've thought? Pros Soothing formula
Great for a glass skin finish Cons Not as effective as the injectable treatment
Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, covering all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Metro
7 hours ago
- Metro
Simon Cowell sparks concern with outfit choice during London bike ride
Simon Cowell has baffled everyone with his bike-riding attire. The talent show judge was spotted by fans cruising around South London amid the heatwave, which has seen temperatures reach their hottest of the year thus far. But despite the 34°C blaze, which has seen health alerts issued across the country, Simon appeared to be dressing for a totally different season. Captured by TikTok user @plus44unrulyfluffy, the X Factor mogul cycled in Wandsworth wearing some weather-appropriate white shorts and a totally not weather-appropriate, erm, puffer jacket. The BGT judge completed his cycling look with his signature black shades. And he seemed more than happy to pause his ride for a chat with the group who just happened to be sitting in their car, window rolled down. Totally elated at the unexpected encounter, one guy behind the camera is heard declaring: 'Yes, Simon!' 'Are you really on your bike? I can't believe it,' a girl screamed. 'Why are you like this?', she asked him, to which Simon smiled: 'What?' 'On your bike, are you not scared?', she quizzed. 'Well, I got lost, but it is quicker,' Simon replied. 'Please, just go with God, OK?', the fan added as the hysterical interaction continued. 'I will, promise,' Simon beamed, flashing a wave and a thumbs up before cycling off. The whole situation was bananas, to say the least, and viewers in the comments were left in stitches, particularly given what he was wearing at a time when the rest of us are in tank tops and swimwear. 'why does he have a PUFFER jacket in this weather', wrote a puzzled @00unknownuser001. 'A puffer in this weather is crazy', echoed @dontreportedifuge. @kttnt_ added: 'whys he just out? no security? 😭' 'He seemed absolutely delighted with that interaction too 😭', laughed @northernchill12, with plenty of others loving how 'wholesome' it was. Equally amused, @simpleeeteee said: 'He stopped like he just saw his aunty and uncle in traffic tooo funny 😅' Others commented to say they've seen Simon out in the capital on his bike numerous times, just blending in with other commuters. He now rides with confidence; however, it took Simon a while to get back to leisurely cycling after an accident in 2020. The America's Got Talent judge broke his back in August that year after he fell off an electric bike that he was testing at his home in California. He required intense surgery, which included having a metal rod inserted into his back to stabilise it. Then, in 2022, Simon, who is a proud dad to 11-year-old Eric, suffered a second serious crash, after which he admitted he was 'lucky to survive'. Just 18 months after his first incident, Simon went over on the road near his west London home, having made a sharp turn around a corner in wet conditions and felt the bike go 'out from under' him. He was sent crashing to the ground, having been going at a speed of around 20mph. More Trending Simon was rushed to hospital and suffered a broken arm, a badly bruised cheek, and possible concussion. Thankfully, it did not lessen his love for riding, as, when asked if he would be giving up the hobby, he said in an interview later on: 'I'm still gonna stay on my bike. I'm obsessed with these things.' The ordeals also gave Simon a new outlook, as he later shared to The Sun that he 'was so close to living the rest of [his] life in a wheelchair.' 'It gives you a completely different outlook on life. In a positive way,' he said. 'It hurt—trust me—when it happened, but good things happened off the back of it.' Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Who is in the Britain's Got Talent 2025 final? Full line-up revealed MORE: Who is in the Britain's Got Talent 2025 final? Full line-up revealed MORE: Britain's Got Talent viewers divided after 'freaky' live marriage proposal
Daily Mirror
7 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Liberty Poole shared terrifying hot air balloon ordeal before fatal Brazil crash
Former Love Island star Liberty Poole shared her concerns about taking hot air balloon trips, revealing she was unsure about the level of safety she experienced when she previously took to the air Love Island star Liberty Poole warned of the dangers of hot air balloon rides amid the tragic deaths of at least eight when such a floating aircraft became engulfed in flames in Brasil this week. Reality star Liberty, 25, had taken to the air herself recently, but did not enjoy the trip. Taking to social media, including via TikTok and Instagram, the former Love Island contestant shared footage and insights from her experience. She captioned her video, writing: "Social media Vs reality: Hot Air Balloon edition." The clips showed her looking comfortable while up in the air, fanning herself and at ease. The footage then cut to a clip of the star screaming shouting out in fear alongside others as they returned to the ground with a thud and they were forced to assume the brace position. Liberty also wrote in a caption: "The unexpected... I ticked it off my bucket list but think it's going to be a one time only thing lol." In further footage, Liberty shared further insight into her experience where she outlined an apparent lack of safety for her trip. Warning that she did not have a relaxing time, she revealed: "I didn't realise when you actually get into a hot air balloon, it's not upright." Giving a detailed description of what she went through, she continued: "You lay on the floor to get in. So you're actually not strapped in. Nothing. You have this tiny bit of rope to hold. "And as the hot air balloon goes up, the basket just sits up. But as you come down, you have to go the other way." Her description was interspliced with footage of her going up in the air and returning to earth. She revealed: "So we were told to basically just hold on to this rope and sit and crouch down to land." Going on to suggest she may not have had the safest overall experience, she added: "However, I don't know if that landing was normal." Liberty's account of her experience has drawn attention from fans over the weekend as a hot air balloon in Brasil caught fire while in the air. Horrifying footage went viral showing the giant balloon becoming engulfed in flames before plunging to the ground along with the basket full of visitors. Reports revealed that at least eight people died and 13 others were injured in the horror incident. The crash took place in Santa Catarina on Saturday and it was confirmed 21 people were on board including the pilot. Jorginho Mello, the Governor of Santa Catarina, shared his shock over the incident in a video that was posted on X following the disaster. He said: "We are in mourning. A tragedy has happened. We will see how it unfolds, what happened, why it happened. But the important thing now is for the state structure to do what it can."
Scottish Sun
9 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Terrified Love Island star reveals relief after ‘surviving' hot air balloon ride
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A TERRIFIED Love Island star has revealed their relief after 'surviving' a hot air balloon ride. Before the news of the tragic hot air balloon crash in Brazil that left eight people dead was revealed, a former Love Islander's horror trip was shared with her fans. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 4 Liberty Poole recently went on a hot air balloon ride Credit: TikTok 4 She shared her scary experience Credit: TikTok Just hours before the Brazilian hot air balloon tragedy was revealed, Liberty Poole, 25, shared her scary experience onboard a different hot air balloon. The former Islander had a bumpy ride which different to what she expected, with her revealing details to fans. Sharing a video of her hot air balloon ride, Liberty penned: "The unexpected. I ticked it off my bucket list but think it's going to be a one time only thing lol." In the clip, she could be seen lying on floor of the basket. Loud bangs could be heard before the former Islander jolted. Screams from other passengers were audible in the video, too. Fans and pals were quick to react to the scary video. "Omfg wtf hahahahaba," said one. "Nooo definitely not on my bucket list and especially not now," penned another. "Thank you so much for sharing, now I will be taking this off the bucket list," added a third. Love Island's Liberty Poole opens up about uncomfortable moment with tradesman while alone in her house as she issues stark warning "Oh bless you that does not look fun," wrote a fourth. "I will happily watch from a distance," added a fifth. While a sixth added: "Yea changed my mind." And a seventh said: "Definitely not for me." In another video about her experience, Liberty said: "I didn't realise when you get into a hot air balloon it's not upright, you lie on the floor to get in. "So you're actually not strapped in, nothing, you only have this tiny bit of rope to hold, as the hot air balloon goes up, the basket just sits up," she went on. "But as you come down, you have to go the other way, so we were told to basically just hold onto this rope and sit and almost do like a wall sit, crouch down to land. "However, I don't know if that landing was normal, because we were getting knocked left, right, up, down. "Like it was so chaotic, I don't know if every single hot air balloon lands like that cause to me that's not right. "Why are people go on a hot air balloon if that happened all the time?" Liberty concluded: "I'm just glad we survived to be honest.'" 4 Liberty spoke out in a video Credit: TikTok
