CICA PDRN is a modern, premium regenerative ingredient, developed in South Korea – one of the global centers of cosmetic innovation. The formula was designed to simultaneously deliver the soothing action characteristic of Centella asiatica and the high regenerative activity of Sodium DNA.
This ingredient contains water, Centella asiatica extract (5%), Sodium DNA (0.0005% / 5 ppm), and 1,2-hexanediol as a mild humectant and stabilizing component. Such a composition ensures synergistic pro-regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing supporting effects.
Properties and Mechanism of Action of CICA PDRN
1. Tissue Regeneration and Damage Healing
PDRN is a DNA polymer with a molecular weight of 65–325 kDa, activating the adenosine A2A receptor present on the surface of skin cells. Stimulation of this receptor initiates repair processes, accelerates fibroblast proliferation, and supports natural tissue regeneration.
The ingredient also exhibits anti-ischemic effects on tissues, supports angiogenesis, and stimulates collagen synthesis, which is crucial in anti-aging products and post-dermatological procedure treatments.
2. Anti-inflammatory and Soothing Action
Centella asiatica is rich in triterpenoids, such as asiaticoside and madecassoside, known for their strong anti-inflammatory action. In combination with PDRN, the ingredient effectively reduces inflammatory reactions and helps soothe irritations caused by environmental stress, UV radiation, or cosmetic procedures.
Reduced expression of inflammatory markers (NF-κB, IL-1, TNF-α, COX-2) and decreased MMP activity translates into collagen protection against degradation and improved skin elasticity.
3. Improvement of Skin Elasticity, Hydration, and Structure
The ingredient improves skin hydration due to the presence of Centella asiatica extract and components with humectant activity. Simultaneously, it stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis by increasing SOD activity and decreasing NADPH oxidase activity, while also reducing melanin synthesis.
The result of using the ingredient is increased skin elasticity, smoothing of fine wrinkles, and reduction of pore visibility.
4. Supporting the Reduction of Scars and Discoloration
Thanks to its regenerative properties and modulation of inflammatory processes, CICA PDRN is used in products supporting the reduction of scars, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and acne marks. This mechanism results from the regulation of MITF expression and tyrosinase activity – key elements of skin pigmentation processes.
Application of CICA PDRN in Cosmetics
CICA PDRN is a multifunctional ingredient recommended for products:
- regenerative cosmetics – barrier-restoring serums, repair creams, post-dermatological procedure treatments,
- anti-aging cosmetics – wrinkle-reducing formulas, improving firmness and elasticity,
- cosmetics for sensitive skin – soothing creams and emulsions, products alleviating redness,
- cosmetics for problematic skin care – supporting lesion healing, reduction of scars and discoloration,
- dermatological and professional products – post-procedure masks, ampoules, products for professional use,
- body care – regenerative lotions, products for irritated skin.
Due to its broad spectrum of action and very low concentration of active DNA (5 ppm), the ingredient is well-suited for both light emulsions and richer cream formulations.
