Full-Face PDRN Skin Booster Treatment Protocol

Overview

This protocol describes the standard approach for full-face PDRN skin booster treatment using the nappage (microinjection) technique ^[1][3]. It is intended as a clinical reference for trained practitioners and is based on published protocols and consensus guidelines from Korean and European dermatology societies ^[1][4]. PDRN exerts its regenerative effects through activation of the adenosine A2A receptor, promoting fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis ^[2][6].

Patient Selection

Indications

• Mild to moderate photoaging (Glogau II-III) ^[1][3]
• Skin dullness, rough texture, and loss of elasticity
• Fine lines and superficial wrinkles ^[4][5]
• Skin dehydration and impaired barrier function ^[3]
• Post-procedural skin quality maintenance ^[4]

Contraindications

• Active skin infection at treatment site
• Known hypersensitivity to fish-derived products
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Autoimmune connective tissue disease (relative)
• Anticoagulant therapy (relative — assess bleeding risk)

Pre-Treatment Preparation

1. Consultation — Assess skin condition, discuss realistic expectations, obtain informed consent, and photograph baseline status under standardized lighting ^[1][3].
2. Skin preparation — Cleanse the face thoroughly with a gentle antiseptic (chlorhexidine 0.05% or equivalent). Remove all makeup and sunscreen.
3. Anesthesia — Apply topical anesthetic cream (lidocaine 2.5%/prilocaine 2.5%) under occlusion for 20-30 minutes prior to treatment. Remove and re-cleanse before injection ^[1].

Injection Technique

Equipment

• PDRN skin booster product (e.g., Rejuran Healer 2 mg/mL, 2 mL syringe)
• 30G or 32G needle (4 mm or 13 mm length) ^[1][3]
• Sterile gauze and post-treatment soothing mask

Nappage Technique

1. Injection depth — Target the superficial dermis (papillary to upper reticular dermis), approximately 1-2 mm below the skin surface ^[1][3][5].
2. Volume per point — 0.01-0.02 mL per injection, creating a small dermal wheal at each point ^[1][3].
3. Spacing — Injection points spaced 5-10 mm apart in a grid pattern across the treatment area ^[1][4].
4. Coverage zones — Divide the face into zones (forehead, temples, periorbital, cheeks, nasolabial, perioral, jawline, chin) and treat systematically ^[1].
5. Total volume — 2 mL distributed across the full face per session (approximately 100-200 injection points) ^[1][3].
6. Needle angle — Insert the needle at 10-30 degrees to the skin surface with bevel facing upward ^[3].

Treatment Schedule

Post-Treatment Care

1. Immediate — Apply gentle pressure with sterile gauze to control any pinpoint bleeding. Soothing mask application for 15-20 minutes is recommended ^[1].
2. First 24 hours — Avoid touching the face, applying makeup, or engaging in vigorous exercise. Mild erythema and papules at injection sites are normal and typically resolve within 24-48 hours ^[1][3].
3. First week — Use gentle cleanser and moisturizer only. Avoid active skincare ingredients (retinoids, AHAs, vitamin C serums). Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
4. Ongoing — Resume normal skincare routine after 1 week. Encourage consistent sun protection to preserve treatment benefits.

Expected Outcomes

Progressive improvement in skin texture, elasticity, hydration, and radiance over the treatment course ^[1][5]. Initial effects (improved hydration, glow) are often noted within 1-2 weeks of the first session ^[3][4]. Collagen remodeling effects continue for 2-3 months after completing the induction phase ^[2][5][6]. Patient satisfaction scores in published studies consistently exceed 80% at the 12-week endpoint ^[1][3].