Medicube

Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

Moisturizer·Mid-Range·$29 / 55ml — $0.53/ml
Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream$29 / 55ml — $0.53/ml

Formulation Summary

A dual-texture moisturizer combining PDRN capsules with a transparent gel base. Encapsulated salmon DNA PDRN bursts on contact, delivering firming and hydrating ingredients directly. The formula includes niacinamide, hydrolyzed collagen, and a peptide complex for comprehensive anti-aging support.

Medicube uses encapsulation technology to preserve PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide from salmon DNA) until application. The capsules sit in a transparent gel matrix containing niacinamide and hydrolyzed collagen. Sodium DNA provides the PDRN component. The formula includes glutathione as an antioxidant and Copper Tripeptide-1 for collagen remodeling. Cetearyl olivate and sorbitan olivate create a gentle emulsion system. The cream excludes parabens and sulfates.

Quick Facts

TextureDual-texture: pink PDRN capsules suspended in clear gel. Capsules pop and blend on application. Lightweight finish.
ColorClear gel with pink capsules.
Fragrance-free✗ No
Cruelty-freeYes
Vegan✗ No — Contains salmon DNA (Sodium DNA) and Salmon Egg Extract. Not suitable for vegans.
ScentSubtle floral scent. Not marketed as fragrance-free.

Designed For

  • Those looking for hydration and firming in one product
  • Users interested in PDRN as an anti-aging ingredient
  • People who enjoy interactive, capsule-bursting textures
  • Those seeking lightweight cream that does not feel heavy
  • Users who want niacinamide for brightening alongside collagen support

May Not Suit

  • Vegans or those avoiding animal-derived ingredients (contains salmon DNA)
  • Users sensitive to fragrance (not fragrance-free)
  • Those who prefer simple, no-frills formulations
  • People with fish allergies (salmon-derived ingredients present)

Key Ingredients

IngredientConcentrationFunction
Sodium DNA (PDRN)Polydeoxyribonucleotide derived from salmon DNA. Used in Korean dermatology for wound healing and skin regeneration. Topical PDRN research is growing but primarily supported by injection-based clinical studies.
NiacinamideBrightening and barrier support. Listed third in the INCI, suggesting a meaningful concentration.
Hydrolyzed Collagen ExtractProvides hydration and plumping. Hydrolyzed form has smaller molecules for better absorption. Does not replace the body's own collagen production.
Copper Tripeptide-1Signal peptide that supports collagen synthesis and wound healing. Research supports its role in skin remodeling.

The Formulation Explained

PDRN encapsulation technology

The pink capsules protect PDRN from degradation until the moment of application. This preserves potency better than pre-dissolved PDRN in solution. The capsules burst easily with gentle pressure, releasing the active into the gel base for even distribution across the skin.

Salmon DNA in skincare

PDRN gained popularity through Korean aesthetic medicine where it is used in injectable form. The topical version faces similar penetration questions as other large molecules. Medicube positions this as a gentler, at-home alternative to clinical PDRN treatments. The science supporting topical PDRN is less robust than injectable data.

Clinical test results

Medicube cites three clinical outcomes: 102.4% hydration improvement immediately after use, 19.4% improvement in uneven skin tone after two weeks, and 33% improvement in skin elasticity after two weeks. The testing methodology details are not fully published on the brand site.

Ingredients to Know

Salmon Egg ExtractIrritancy: 1/5

Derived from salmon roe. Rich in proteins and lipids. Those with fish allergies should exercise caution.

GlutathioneIrritancy: 0/5

Antioxidant peptide. Sometimes used for brightening effects. Present in small amounts based on INCI position.

Thioctic Acid (Alpha-Lipoic Acid)Irritancy: 1/5

Antioxidant that can cause tingling or irritation in sensitive skin at higher concentrations. Likely present in trace amounts here.

User Feedback Patterns

Fun, interactive texture:Users enjoy popping the capsules and blending them into the gel. The sensory experience is frequently highlighted in positive reviews.
Lightweight for a collagen cream:Unlike heavy collagen creams, users note this absorbs well without a greasy or sticky residue.
Glow and hydration boost:Immediate hydration and a visible glow are the most commonly cited benefits. Long-term firming results are less frequently reported.

Full INCI List

49 ingredients · Click "Show full list" to view

About Medicube

Founded2015
FounderKim Byung-hoon
LocationSeoul, South Korea

Does not disclose specific active concentrations. Cites clinical testing data but full methodology is not publicly available. INCI lists provided on packaging and website.

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Sources

  • https://medicube.us/products/pdrn-pink-collagen-capsule-cream
  • https://incidecoder.com/products/medicube-pdrn-pink-collagen-capsule-cream
  • https://skinsort.com/products/medicube/pdrn-pink-collagen-capsule-cream
  • https://www.amazon.com/medicube-PDRN-Moisturizer-Lightweight-Moisturizing/dp/B0DTKCN3Z4
  • https://www.ulta.com/p/pdrn-pink-collagen-capsule-cream-pimprod2053647
  • https://global.oliveyoung.com/product/detail?prdtNo=GA250329693

Last updated: 2026-03

Rating Scales

Comedogenicity (0-5)

Likelihood of clogging pores. 0 = won't clog, 1-2 = low, 3 = moderate, 4-5 = high.

Irritancy (0-5)

Potential for skin irritation. 0 = non-irritating, 1-2 = low, 3 = moderate, 4-5 = high.

Ratings based on published ingredient studies. Individual reactions may vary.