PDRN & DNA‑Repair Actives (Topical)

1. Purpose

This policy explains how Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor (NCD) uses topical, non‑prescription PDRN and DNA‑repair actives only for adults (18+), focusing on hydration, barrier support and visible comfort once skin is intact, not for therapeutic purposes. ¹ ² It clarifies the cosmetic vs therapeutic boundary in Australia so that product selection, language and patient education stay within the cosmetic category and avoid therapeutic claims. ¹ ³ It also sets realistic expectations on cosmetic benefits and timeframes, so adult patients can use these products safely alongside daily broad‑spectrum sun protection. ² ⁶ ⁷

2. Scope

This policy applies to topical serums, creams, gels and masks that contain PDRN, sodium DNA, salmon‑derived DNA, DNA‑RNA complexes or nucleotide ‘repair’ actives used in adults for cosmetic purposes such as hydration, texture and visible radiance, not for treating disease. ² ³ It covers everyday adult skincare and supportive use after non‑ablative procedures only once re‑epithelialised (clinic standard), keeping all use and claims within cosmetic scope. ¹ ²

Excluded: injectable polynucleotide/PN products (e.g., Rejuran®) are therapeutic goods and outside this topical, non‑prescription policy; in Australia Rejuran is a Class III medical device, and prescription‑only injectables are also regulated by the TGA. ⁸ ¹ Any product making healing/treatment claims is outside the cosmetic category and must not be used or promoted under this policy. ¹ ³

3. Mechanisms of Action

Topical PDRN is a mixture of DNA fragments that acts primarily via adenosine A2A receptor signalling to support fibroblast activity and extracellular‑matrix processes relevant to appearance and barrier—within cosmetic (non‑therapeutic) use. ⁴ ⁵ Literature describes anti‑inflammatory/antioxidant effects (e.g., modulation of TNF‑α/IL‑6) consistent with improved comfort and reduced visible redness in intact adult skin. ⁴ ⁵ These actives do not integrate into human DNA in cosmetic use; they function as surface‑acting signalling/support molecules rather than gene‑altering agents. ⁴ ⁵

4. Clinical Evidence Summary (Adult Cosmetic Use)

Evidence for topical (non‑prescription) polynucleotides in adults is growing but limited; conservative takeaways are improvements in hydration, comfort and cosmetic quality with regular use on intact skin. ⁴ ¹¹ The more robust interventional data remain with injectables (outside this topical policy), so expectations for topicals should remain cosmetic. ⁴ When used after procedures, they are introduced only once the surface has healed, layered with moisturiser and strict photoprotection. ⁶ ⁷

Barrier physiology data show that microneedle micropores typically close over ~48–72 hours depending on conditions such as occlusion and skin type, supporting a conservative wait before introducing non‑prescription actives on intact skin. ¹⁰ ¹²

5. Australian Regulatory Context (Non‑Prescription, Cosmetic Only)

In Australia, whether something is a cosmetic or a therapeutic good depends on intended purpose, claims and presentation, not just the ingredient. ¹ Cosmetics (including skincare) are industrial chemicals regulated under AICIS provided claims are limited to appearance maintenance, protection and keeping skin in good condition. ² ³ Therapeutic claims bring products under the TGA, which is not the case for the adult, non‑prescription topicals covered by this policy. ¹ ²

6. How Adult Patients Should Use Topical PDRN (Step‑by‑Step)

Morning (Adults 18+): gentle cleanser → thin layer of PDRN/DNA‑repair serum → moisturiser → broad‑spectrum SPF 50/50+ every day when the UV Index is ≥3. ² ⁷ ⁹

Evening (Adults 18+): gentle cleanser → PDRN/DNA‑repair serum or cream → barrier‑supporting moisturiser (e.g., ceramide‑rich). ²

After non‑ablative procedures: start only once re‑epithelialised per clinic standard (commonly from ~48–72 h, varies by procedure/skin), then apply twice daily with moisturiser for 1–2 weeks, within cosmetic claims and on intact skin. ¹ ² ¹⁰

Compatibility: generally fine with niacinamide, vitamin C, ceramides and hyaluronic acid; retinoids/strong acids should be re‑introduced gradually, especially in the first 2–4 weeks post‑procedure. ⁶ ⁷

7. Contraindications & Cautions (Adults 18+ Only)

Situation (Adult Patient)	Recommendation / Risk (Cosmetic Context)
Known fish/seafood allergy	Avoid salmon‑derived DNA products or patch‑test alternatives; products are purified but caution is warranted. ⁴
Broken skin / open wounds	Do not apply until fully re‑epithelialised. This policy covers intact skin only. ¹ ²
Pregnancy / breastfeeding	Evidence is limited. Avoid use unless cleared by a medical practitioner under separate medical guidance. ¹
Severe active dermatitis or infection	Defer use. These products are cosmetic, not treatment; seek medical assessment. ¹
Less than 48–72 h after non‑ablative procedure	Delay application until the surface is intact to reduce stinging and irritation. Moisturiser and SPF remain priorities. ⁶ ⁷ ¹⁰
Concurrent strong retinoids or acids	Reduce frequency and introduce slowly to avoid irritation on recently stressed skin. ⁶

8. Myths & Facts (Adult Patients, Non‑Prescription Only)

Myth: Topical PDRN works the same way as injectable PDRN. ⁸ ¹ Fact: Injectables are therapeutic goods regulated by the TGA and reach the dermis; topicals are cosmetics used on the surface for appearance‑focused benefits in adults. ¹ ²

Myth: PDRN changes your DNA. ⁴ ⁵ Fact: Cosmetic‑use PDRN acts via A2A signalling and supportive mechanisms; there is no evidence of genomic integration with topical use. ⁴ ⁵

Myth: One or two applications will transform your skin. ¹¹ Fact: Adults typically notice hydration and comfort early, with texture and radiance changes over weeks; expectations must remain cosmetic. ⁴ ¹¹

9. Extended Adult Patient Q&A (Non‑Prescription Only)

Q1: Who are these products for at NCD?

They are for adults 18+ seeking cosmetic benefits such as hydration, comfort and visible texture/radiance on intact skin, including supportive use after non‑ablative treatments once healed. ¹²

Q2: Are these classed as medicines?

No—within this policy they are cosmetics, provided we keep claims to appearance and barrier support and avoid therapeutic language. ¹²³

Q3: Can topical PDRN change my DNA?

No; the literature supports A2A‑mediated actions with no genetic integration in topical use. ⁴⁵

Q4: Is daily, long‑term use safe for adults?

Cosmetic literature indicates good tolerability on intact adult skin, with conservative expectations; patch‑test if sensitive. ⁴¹¹

Q5: When can I start after laser or microneedling?

At NCD we start only after re‑epithelialisation (clinic standard), then layer with moisturiser and SPF, keeping all claims cosmetic. ¹²¹⁰

Q6: What results should I expect?

Early hydration and comfort, then gradual improvements in texture and radiance with regular use over weeks, staying within cosmetic outcomes. ⁴¹¹

Q7: Does this treat eczema, acne or rosacea?

No; these are cosmetics, not medical treatments—seek medical care for diagnosed disease. ¹

Q8: Can I combine with vitamin C or niacinamide?

Yes for most adults; re‑introduce retinoids and acids slowly, especially after procedures. ⁶⁷

Q9: Do I still need sunscreen?

Absolutely; use broad‑spectrum SPF 50/50+ daily when UV ≥3, as these products do not provide UV protection. ⁶⁷⁹

Q10: Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Often yes when used on intact skin with simple moisturisers; patch‑test if highly reactive. ¹¹

Q11: Are these vegan?

Traditional PDRN is salmon‑derived; discuss non‑animal alternatives if preferred. ⁴

Q12: Can I buy them over the counter?

Many cosmetic‑grade polynucleotide products are non‑prescription; ensure they fit AICIS cosmetic definitions and avoid therapeutic claims. ²³

Sources

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Determining if your product is a cosmetic or therapeutic good. 2024., viewed 19 November 2025, https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/guidance/determining-if-your-product-cosmetic-or-therapeutic-good ↩
Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS). Cosmetics and soap — definition & examples. 2024., viewed 19 November 2025, https://www.industrialchemicals.gov.au/cosmetics-and-soap ↩
AICIS. Cosmetics and therapeutics — understanding boundaries of cosmetic claims. 2023., viewed 19 November 2025, https://www.industrialchemicals.gov.au/cosmetics-and-soap/cosmetics-and-therapeutics ↩
Squadrito F. et al. Pharmacological Activity and Clinical Use of PDRN. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2017., viewed 19 November 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5405115/ ↩
Squadrito F. et al. Polydeoxyribonucleotide, an Adenosine A2A Receptor Agonist. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2016/2017., viewed 19 November 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5222826/ ↩
Australasian College of Dermatologists (ACD). Sun Protection & Sunscreens — patient guidance. 2022–2024., viewed 19 November 2025, https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/sun-protection-sunscreens/ ↩
TGA. Advertising health services and cosmetic injections — FAQs (V2.0, May 2024): Rejuran is a Class III medical device., viewed 19 November 2025, https://www.tga.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-04/advertising-health-services-cosmetic-injections-faqs.pdf ↩
Ogunjimi AT. et al. Micropore closure following microneedle application varies by site and skin type. Sci Rep. 2020., viewed 19 November 2025, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-75246-8 ↩
Ha YJ. et al. Polynucleotide–Hyaluronic Acid hydrogel improves barrier recovery (mouse). Skin Res Technol. 2024., viewed 19 November 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11413333/ ↩
Brogden NK. et al. Diclofenac enables week‑long microneedle‑enhanced delivery; micropores ~48–72 h under occlusion. 2013., viewed 19 November 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3773937/ ↩

Disclaimer for Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor Policies & Procedures

The policies and procedures contained within this document are the exclusive property of Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor and are provided for internal clinical governance and educational purposes only. These materials represent the internal operational framework, safety standards, and evidence-based protocols developed and implemented by Dr. Bart John Scanlon and the Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor team. They are designed specifically for use within Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor and reflect our clinic’s own professional standards, risk assessments, and compliance obligations under Australian law and regulatory authorities. External individuals, practitioners, or organisations must not copy, reproduce, distribute, or rely upon these materials, in whole or in part, for their own clinical, commercial, or educational use without prior written consent from Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor. These materials do not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice and are not intended to be adopted as official protocols or procedures by any other entity. Any external use or adaptation must be independently reviewed and modified to meet the relevant laws, guidelines, and standards applicable to the user’s own jurisdiction, scope of practice, and facility operations. Newcastle Cosmetic Doctor and Dr. Bart Scanlon accept no liability for any loss, injury, or damage arising from the unauthorised use, reliance upon, or misinterpretation of this material.