Hydration & glow
For dry or dull-looking skin.
A moisturizing formula can leave skin looking fresher and feeling more supple. Humectants such as glycerin help hold water; a cream can help keep moisture in.
Compare product typesThe Dew Fresh skincare guide
Understand your
skincare options.
Get to know PDRN, cosmetic peptides and the textures that bring a routine together. Start with how you want your skin to look and feel.
What is PDRN?Our Korean skincare collection is coming soon. Learn about the ingredients and product types before launch.
Your starting point
How would you like
your skin to feel?
Hydrated. Soft. Smooth-looking.
Make room for what matters to you.
Smoother-looking skin
For fine lines and uneven texture.
Explore cosmetic peptide formulas and learn why PDRN is attracting attention. Look for evidence for the finished product and a texture you enjoy using consistently.
Explore ingredientsSoftness & comfort
For dry skin that needs comfort.
Moisturizing creams and leave-on balms can soften dry-feeling skin. Choose the finish that feels comfortable for you, from a light cream to a more enveloping balm.
Compare creams & balmsTwo ingredients to know
Beyond the
headline ingredient.
The ingredient is a starting point.
The whole formula makes the product.
01 / Ingredient notes
PDRN
Polydeoxyribonucleotide
What is PDRN?
PDRN is a name for purified fragments of DNA. It is often sourced from salmon or trout, and appears in some topical skincare formulas. Its name describes an ingredient, rather than a product format.
Why the interest?
Early research on specific topical PDRN formulas has explored improvements in the appearance of fine lines. In a skincare routine, look at the complete product: its moisturizing ingredients, texture, directions and the benefits the brand can support.
What does the topical research tell us?
A small 28-day study in 31 women evaluated one PDRN eye cream against a retinol eye cream and reported improvements in wrinkle appearance. It had no plain-base comparison. That is early, formula-specific evidence, not a result every PDRN product can promise.
Read the topical PDRN studyIs PDRN a peptide? Is it always fish-derived?
PDRN is made of DNA fragments; peptides are chains of amino acids. They are different ingredients and can appear in the same formula. PDRN sources vary, so check the brand’s source information if animal-derived ingredients matter to you. An ingredient list mentioning DNA alone does not establish that a product contains a particular PDRN material.
02 / Ingredient notesCosmetic
Cosmetic
peptides
Small chains of amino acids
What are cosmetic peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids. Skincare formulas use different peptides for different purposes. Some finished peptide moisturizers have been studied for improving the appearance of fine lines.
What does “multi-peptide” mean?
Simply that a formula contains more than one peptide. It can be a useful way to combine ingredients, but a longer peptide list does not by itself show that a product works better. Look for the named peptides, the whole formula and evidence behind its stated benefits.
How do I recognize peptides on a label?
Names may include palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, palmitoyl tripeptide-1 or copper tripeptide-1, also known as GHK-Cu. These are examples of different cosmetic ingredients, not interchangeable formulas. A copper peptide is one type of peptide; PDRN is a separate ingredient.
What has been studied?
A 12-week study in 93 women compared a moisturizer containing palmitoyl pentapeptide with the same moisturizer base and found improvements in fine-line and wrinkle appearance. That result belongs to the tested formula, not every peptide or peptide blend.
Read the cosmetic peptide studyFive formats, clearly explained
Find your texture.
Learn about the skincare categories we plan to offer.
Available products will appear in the shop.
Ingredient and format answer different questions. PDRN or peptides describe what is in a formula. Serum, essence, ampoule, cream and balm describe its presentation or feel. Brands use these names differently, so the label is your best guide.
01
Serums
A light, targeted skincare step.
- The texture
- Often a fluid or gel, though textures vary.
- The role
- A targeted step for the cosmetic benefit described by the brand. Peptides or PDRN may be part of the formula.
- In your routine
- Usually before moisturizer. Follow the label.
02
Essences
A lightweight layer.
- The texture
- Usually watery and quick to spread.
- The role
- An optional lightweight layer when you enjoy a more fluid texture. Check what the complete formula is designed to do.
- In your routine
- Often after cleansing and before richer textures.
03
Ampoules
Serum-like skincare in a small format.
- The texture
- May feel like a serum, from watery to gel-like.
- The role
- A brand’s focused formula or presentation. “Ampoule” does not have a universal strength, and is not automatically stronger than a serum.
- In your routine
- May replace a serum step; both are not required.
04
Creams
The everyday moisture layer.
- The texture
- A lotion-like to rich, cushiony texture.
- The role
- Moisturizing ingredients help skin feel softer and retain moisture. Choose a finish that suits your skin and the season.
- In your routine
- Usually after lighter skincare steps.
05
Balms
A rich moisturizing layer.
- The texture
- Often a dense, waxy or melt-on-contact texture.
- The role
- Here we mean leave-on moisturizing balms for a richer layer. Cleansing balms are a different, rinse-off category.
- In your routine
- Use as directed, often as a final moisturizing step.
Your daily routine
Build a simple
skincare routine.
You don’t need one of everything.
Choose the steps that suit your skin.
Cleanse
Start with clean skin and a cleanser that feels comfortable.
Choose a focus
If you want a targeted step, choose a serum, essence or ampoule and follow its directions.
Moisturize
Finish with a moisturizer that suits the feel you enjoy. A richer texture is optional.
Protect by day
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher as the final morning skincare step, following its label.
Introduce a new product gradually, test it on a small area first and follow the brand’s instructions. Consistency and comfort matter more than the number of steps.
Can a product contain both PDRN and peptides?
Yes. These names describe different ingredients, so they may appear together in one finished formula. Check the complete ingredient list and the brand’s directions.
Do I need a serum and an ampoule?
No. They can fill a similar role. Choose based on the actual product and your preferences; neither format is automatically stronger or more effective.
Which products can I buy now?
We’re preparing our first skincare products. This guide introduces the categories and ingredients we’re exploring. Confirmed brands, products, prices and availability will appear in the shop. Notify me at launch
Our reading notes
Ingredient education helps you compare products. It does not establish the results of a product we have not yet selected.
- Topical PDRN study, PLOS One (2026) — a small study of one eye-cream formula.
- Palmitoyl pentapeptide study (2005) — a controlled trial by industry researchers of a specific moisturizer.
- American Academy of Dermatology: caring for aging skin — moisturizer, sunscreen and simple routine guidance.
Last reviewed September 2026.