What Is Rejuran Healer? Salmon DNA (PN) Injections Explained
Rejuran Healer is an injectable skin treatment made from polynucleotides (PN), which are purified fragments of DNA taken from salmon. It is injected in small amounts across the face to support the skin's own repair processes, with the aim of improving texture, fine lines, elasticity and overall skin quality. It is not a filler: it does not add visible volume or change the shape of your face. Instead, it is usually described as a "skin healer" or "skin booster" whose effects build gradually over a series of sessions.
Rejuran was developed in Korea and is one of the most commonly requested skin booster treatments at Korean dermatology clinics. This guide explains what it is, how it is thought to work, what treatment involves, and what you can realistically expect.
What Is Actually in a Rejuran Injection?
The active ingredient is polynucleotide, often shortened to PN. Polynucleotides are chains of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA. In Rejuran, these are extracted from salmon reproductive cells, then purified and processed so that proteins and other material that could trigger reactions are removed. The result is a gel-like solution that is injected into the upper layers of the skin.
The name "salmon DNA injection" is popular online, but it can be misleading. You are not receiving living cells or anything that changes your own DNA. The fragments act locally in the skin and are broken down over time.
The product comes in several versions. Rejuran Healer is the original facial treatment. Related products include Rejuran i (designed for the delicate under-eye area), Rejuran S (aimed at scars, including acne scars) and Rejuran HB (a version mixed with hyaluronic acid and a local anaesthetic).
How It Is Thought to Work
Polynucleotides are believed to support the skin in a few ways. Laboratory and clinical research, much of it published in Korea and Europe, suggests they may:
- Support tissue repair: provide building blocks and signals that help skin cells, particularly fibroblasts, recover and function well.
- Encourage collagen production: fibroblasts are the cells that make collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm and springy.
- Calm inflammation: PN is thought to have a soothing effect on irritated or stressed skin.
- Improve hydration: the molecules hold water, which can make skin look smoother and more plump in the short term.
It is fair to say that the evidence is promising but still developing. There are clinical studies showing improvements in skin texture, elasticity and wrinkles, but many are small, short-term or not independent of manufacturers. Results also vary from person to person. Rejuran is best thought of as a well-established treatment with a reasonable safety record and moderate, gradual benefits, rather than a dramatic transformation.
Who Might Consider Rejuran Healer
Rejuran is often suggested for people whose main concern is skin quality rather than volume loss or deep folds. Common reasons people ask about it include:
- Dull, tired-looking skin that lacks a healthy glow
- Fine lines and early signs of ageing
- Rough texture or enlarged-looking pores
- Thin, sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Skin that feels damaged after sun exposure, harsh treatments or frequent laser work
- Shallow acne scars (often with Rejuran S or combined with other treatments)
It is less suited to people who mainly want to restore lost volume, lift sagging skin or soften deep wrinkles. Those concerns usually need other approaches, such as filler, lifting devices or muscle-relaxing injections, sometimes combined with a skin booster.
What Happens During Treatment
A typical Rejuran Healer session looks something like this:
- Consultation: your doctor reviews your skin, medical history, allergies and goals, and confirms that the treatment is appropriate.
- Cleansing and numbing: the face is cleaned and a numbing cream is applied, usually for 30 to 60 minutes.
- Injection: the product is placed in many small injections across the treated area, either by hand with a fine needle or with an injector device. Some clinics use a cannula for certain areas.
- Aftercare: a soothing mask or cool compress may be applied, and you will be given instructions for the next few days.
The injection part itself usually takes around 15 to 30 minutes. Rejuran has a reputation for being one of the more uncomfortable skin boosters, partly because of the number of injection points and the thickness of the product. Numbing cream helps, and versions containing anaesthetic may feel more comfortable.
Recovery and Side Effects
Right after treatment, most people have small raised bumps at each injection site. These are expected and usually flatten within a day or so, though they can last a little longer in some people. Other common effects include:
- Redness and mild swelling
- Small bruises, especially around the eyes or in people prone to bruising
- Tenderness when touching the skin
Less common problems include infection, prolonged lumps or an allergic reaction. People with a known allergy to fish or salmon should raise this with their doctor before treatment. Treatment is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, over active skin infections or inflamed acne, and in some autoimmune or medical conditions that need individual discussion.
For the first day or two, you will typically be advised to avoid makeup, intense exercise, saunas, alcohol and touching or rubbing the face.
When You See Results and How Long They Last
Some people notice that their skin looks a little more hydrated or fresh within a week or two, once the bumps settle. The deeper changes in texture and elasticity tend to build more slowly, over several weeks. Because of this, Rejuran is usually given as a course, often three or more sessions spaced a few weeks apart, followed by occasional maintenance sessions. Exactly how many you need depends on your skin and goals.
Results are not permanent. Many clinicians suggest a maintenance session every several months to keep the benefits, but there is no single agreed schedule. Your lifestyle, sun protection and daily skincare also play a big part in how long improvements last.
Practical Tips for Visitors to Korea
Rejuran is widely offered in Korea, and many visitors combine it with other skin treatments during a trip. A few points can help you plan:
- Allow at least a day or two after treatment before important events or photos, as bumps and small bruises are common.
- If you want a full course but are only visiting once, ask whether sessions can be spaced within your stay or whether a single session is still worthwhile.
- Check which version of the product is being used and keep a note for future treatments at home.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rejuran the same as a filler?
No. Fillers add volume and change contours. Rejuran is aimed at improving skin quality and does not noticeably change the shape of your face.
Is salmon DNA safe to inject?
The product is highly purified and has been used widely for years with a generally good safety record. As with any injection, side effects are possible, and you should mention fish allergies beforehand.
Can Rejuran be combined with other treatments?
Often, yes. It is commonly paired with lasers, lifting devices or other injectables, but timing matters, so let your doctor plan the order.
Will one session be enough?
A single session may give a mild improvement, but most people see more noticeable results after a series of treatments.
Getting Personal Advice
Rejuran Healer can be a useful option for improving skin quality, but it is not the right answer for every concern. A qualified dermatologist can assess your skin, explain whether polynucleotides suit your goals, and suggest a treatment plan that fits your skin type, health and travel schedule.
