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Rejuran
A skin-quality injectable, not a filler. It works on how the skin behaves — elasticity, hydration, calm — over a short course, not in a single day.
Book a consultationWhat is Rejuran
Rejuran is a polynucleotide injectable — long chains of purified DNA fragments, most often derived from salmon. Placed just under the surface, they hold water and create conditions that help the skin repair and behave like younger skin: more elastic, better hydrated, and less reactive.
It is not a filler and not a toxin. A filler adds volume where it sits. A toxin relaxes a muscle. Rejuran does neither — it treats skin quality, which is why it is judged on texture, elasticity and calm rather than on a change of shape.
Because it works by prompting a repair response, the change builds over weeks and over a course, not on the day. A single session is rarely the whole story.
Rejuran vs Juvelook
Compare Treatment Guide
People are often told these are interchangeable skin boosters. They are not. Both improve skin quality rather than add volume, but they do it by different means — and are often used together.
Rejuran
Material
Polynucleotide (purified DNA fragments)
What it does
Repairs and hydrates; improves elasticity and calms reactive, red skin
Best for
Thin, dehydrated or easily irritated skin, fine crepiness, under-eye texture
Course
Usually a short series a few weeks apart
Juvelook
Material
Poly-D,L-lactic acid, a collagen stimulator
What it does
Prompts the skin to build new collagen for firmness over months
Best for
Skin that reads thin or lax, where the goal is firmness and structure
Course
Usually three sessions about a month apart
Which one — or whether both, and in what order — depends on what your skin actually needs. That is decided after it is examined, not from a menu. Read more on Juvelook. For a fuller guide, see Rejuran in Korea.
01
Treatment Process
Where it is used
During the visit
- The skin is examined and the concern is agreed — texture, dehydration, fine lines or redness rather than volume.
- Numbing cream is applied, then the polynucleotide is placed in a series of tiny injections across the area.
- Small raised bumps appear at each point. This is expected and is not a complication.
- The bumps are gently smoothed and the session ends. There is no wound to dress.
Afterwards
- The small bumps usually settle within a day, sometimes a little longer.
- Mild redness or the odd bruise can occur and fades over a few days.
- The skin-quality change builds over the following weeks and across the course, not overnight.
02
Before you decide
It may suit you if
It may not be the right treatment if
If the real concern is lost volume or a dropped contour, Rejuran is not the answer and we will say so — a collagen stimulator or a lifting treatment such as Ultherapy may fit better, alone or alongside.
03
What to expect
Timing. A short course, commonly around three sessions a few weeks apart, with the change building over the weeks in between rather than immediately.
Degree. Smoother, more elastic, better-hydrated skin, and often calmer redness. It is a change in skin quality, not in shape or volume.
Duration. The effect is not permanent. How long it holds varies with skin, age and lifestyle, and top-up sessions maintain it.
Risks. Temporary bumps at the injection points are expected. Redness, swelling and occasional bruising can occur. Nodules or infection are uncommon and are discussed with you before you consent.
Results differ from person to person. Nothing on this page is a prediction of your own outcome, and it does not replace a consultation. See our Medical Disclaimer.
Rejuran in Seoul: what visitors usually want to know
Rejuran is one of the treatments most often planned into a trip to Korea. Here is how to make it work around your dates.
Why people come to Korea for it Rejuran is a Korean polynucleotide skin booster and is not approved by the FDA, so it is not something US clinics generally offer. In Korea it is a routine treatment.
A short course A usual plan is around three sessions about a month apart. On a single trip you can have the first session; many visitors book the next one on a return visit, or plan a longer stay.
Plan for the bumps Small raised bumps appear where it is injected and usually flatten within a day or a few days. Have it early in your stay, not the day before photos or a wedding.
Which type? There are several versions: the original Healer for overall skin quality, HB with added hyaluronic acid and a local anaesthetic, an eye version for thin under-eye skin, and a thicker one used for scars. The doctor recommends one based on your skin.
When you will notice it Skin often looks more hydrated and even within about a week. The more lasting change in texture and elasticity builds over the course.
Flying and price Flying a day or two later is generally fine. The cost depends on the type and amount used, so you get a clear quote after the consultation.
04
FAQ
Does it hurt?
Numbing cream is used first, and the injections are shallow and quick. Most people find it very manageable. Tell us during the session if it is too much and we adjust.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually a short series a few weeks apart, then maintenance. The exact number depends on your skin and is agreed at consultation.
What are the little bumps afterwards?
They are the product sitting just under the surface and are entirely expected. They usually settle within a day. Planning around a social event? Allow a couple of days.
Is Rejuran a filler?
No. A filler adds volume where it is placed. Rejuran treats skin quality — hydration, elasticity and calm — and does not fill or reshape.
I have a fish allergy. Can I have it?
Tell us at consultation. The polynucleotide is derived from salmon, so a known fish or salmon allergy is something we check carefully before proceeding.
Can it be combined with other treatments?
Often, yes — with a collagen stimulator, a filler or an energy device, since each addresses something different. The order and interval matter and are planned rather than improvised.
Is Rejuran available in the US?
It is not FDA-approved, so it is not generally offered in US clinics. That is one reason visitors plan it into a trip to Korea.
Is Rejuran really made from salmon?
Yes. The active ingredient is polynucleotide, purified from salmon DNA. If you have a fish allergy, tell us first.
Which type of Rejuran is right for me?
It depends on whether your main concern is overall skin quality, under-eye skin or scarring. The doctor recommends a type at the consultation.
Can I complete the course in one trip?
Only on a long stay, because sessions are usually about a month apart. One session on a short trip still helps; we plan the rest around your return.
When will I see results?
Many people notice their skin looks more hydrated within a week. Texture and elasticity improve gradually over the course.
05
Evidence
The papers behind the statements on this page, with what each one covers and where it stops short. The specific product and protocol vary between studies.
Comparison of the effects of polynucleotide and hyaluronic acid fillers on periocular rejuvenation: a randomized, double-blind, split-face trial. Lee YJ, Kim HT, Lee YJ, et al. Journal of Dermatological Treatment 2022;33(1):254–260. PubMed 32248707
A controlled split-face trial around the eyes: the polynucleotide side showed improved skin elasticity and hydration. What it does not show: it is one area and a specific product, not proof for every site or brand.
Polynucleotides and Polydeoxyribonucleotides for Skin Rejuvenation, Postoperative Scar Prevention, and Wound Healing: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials. Alhussain AM, et al. Cureus 2026;18(7):e112403. PubMed 42572627
Reviewing the randomised evidence, PN and PDRN improved wrinkle-related outcomes, scar quality and wound healing. What it does not show: the trials are small and varied, so it points to a consistent direction rather than a single fixed protocol.
The Effectiveness of Polynucleotides in Esthetic Medicine: A Systematic Review. Lampridou S, Bassett S, Cavallini M, et al. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 2025;24(2):e16721. PubMed 39645667
A broader review supporting improvements in texture, elasticity and hydration, with generally mild, transient side effects. What it does not show: the quality of evidence is still limited, and results and satisfaction vary between people.
Our own doctors have published a review of skin boosters covering hyaluronic acid, poly-L-lactic acid, poly-D,L-lactic acid, polydeoxyribonucleotide and polynucleotides (Yi K, Park M, Ree Y, Kim HM. Korean Association for Laser Dermatology and Trichology 2023;4:1–5). It is in a Korean society journal not indexed on PubMed. The full list is on our Journal Articles page. Links checked 22 September 2026.
From our channels
YouTube · from our channel
When BTX Met Energy, episode 4: choosing the right toxin for EBD treatments
YouTube episode on choosing the right botulinum toxin for energy-device treatments
Watch on YouTube →
Instagram · from our channel
Dr. Kim on carbon shockwave lifting, KALDAT Busan 2026
Instagram reel of Dr. Kim lecturing at the KALDAT Busan symposium
Watch on Instagram →Not sure Rejuran is what you need?
That is what the consultation is for. We will look at your skin and tell you what we would recommend and what we would leave alone — including if the honest answer is a different treatment, or nothing for now.
Book a consultation
General information, not medical advice for your individual case. Rejuran is licensed for use in Korea; licensing and brand names differ by country. See our Medical Disclaimer and Medical Review Process.
Medically reviewed by Hyoung Moon Kim, MD, PhD on 22 September 2026.
Maylin Apgujeong is a doctor-led skin clinic in Gangnam: the doctor who examines you plans and carries out the treatment. More in About Maylin Clinic Apgujeong.