Medicube is advancing skincare in a variety of ways, pushing skincare science to its limits to create exciting new products for us users at home to trial out. There are definite hits (such as their Collagen Night Wrapping Mask and their nourishing PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream). They have perfected their Vitamin C in a soothing cream and hit great highs with their famous skincare device, the Medicube AGE-R Booster Pro. 

[Read out in-depth dive into their skincare devices here – as we’re big fans!] 

So, what’s going on with their exosome PDRN serum? It’s one of the top PDRN serums on the market, has been selling like hot cakes and proclaims to be healing for dark spots, acne, uneven skin tones, oiliness and large pores. So, can this micro-needling in a bottle, blended with all the goods really deliver? Let’s test it out! 

Although simpler in basic format than other serums, the make-up is quite different and contains a few exciting ingredients. 

Butylene Glycol: is a softening, hydrating agent that creates a soothing texture, cools irritation and provides a deep solvent for quick absorption. 

Salmon PDRN (99% purity): tiny DNA fragments that absorb deep into cells that engages healing pathways in cells and enhances the skin barrier for stronger, firmer skin. 

Hydrolyzed sponge (spicules): microscopic needles that form tiny pores into skin to enhance absorption by +200%, which allows deeper skin cells to benefit from serum and improves collagen activity. 

Lactobacillus Vesicles: deep-absorbing probiotics that help restore natural microbiome, protect against harmful bacteria from spreading and improves skin aging and appearance. 

Cyanocobalamin: deeply soothing vitamin that helps cool irritation, dryness and improves skin texture, reduces hyperpigmentation and restores radiance. Often gives products a natural, neon-pink colour. 

Panthenol: deeply soothing vitamin B5 that helps reduce inflammation, itchiness and redness in skin and maintains a deep, lasting hydration. 

Niacinamide: deeply soothing, brightening vitamin that helps lift dark spots and hyperpigmentation to even skin tone. Leaves a characteristic, lasting glow on skin. 

Milk: rich in a variety of proteins, which soothe, repair and restore skin barrier. Maintains stronger, softer texture of skin and improves appearance. 

It’s important to note that for sensitive skin that exosomes, spicules and micro-needles can be irritating. If you have had a previous reaction to more intense or stronger skincare products, it might be worth trying out a different PDRN serum. The exosomes are likely to leave redness and irritation – so don’t test out the day before a big event, it’s going to be a better investment a few weeks prior in the lead-up for plumper skin.

Exosomes create an integrated version of micro-needling that doesn’t require additional tools and instead uses tiny fragments of freshwater sponge to create little pores within skin to maximize absorption. For a deeper dive into the science, we have an article on Exosome Technology. 

Here are a few easy tips to maximize your exosome use – to ensure they are benefiting your routine; 

Since exosomes can be irritating, they are best added to your night-time routine. This allows the deepest absorption (as skin is more permeable while you sleep) and also ensures you don’t carry any extra irritation during your day. 

After toning, your exosome serums should always be your first serum in your product range. This is for two reasons – not only does the spicules mean every other product will absorb better, but also any serums you add on top and massage into will enhance spicule activity. The little needles need good massaging to maximize effect. 

If you are using exosomes (especially a serum like this one) to help boost your natural radiance and look your best, make sure to let your skin rest about 48hrs before an event. This lets any redness or irritation fade and you’ll be glowing!

Keeping all these tips in mind – I was excited to test out the serum. With combination skin (oily forehead and dry cheeks), my skin had become dull over the winter and I was looking to bust out a change. I added the exosome serum to my night-time routine, following it every night with a soothing rice-based serum and a little snail mucin to deeply moisturize. 

As you massage in this serum, you can feel the little needles as they absorb into your skin. This feeling continued throughout my whole regime and the more I massaged, the more hits I could feel – which encouraged me to keep up with my moisture. The needling did take some time to get used to (I was only using the low-dose at 2000), but it was an addictive feeling once I got used to it – as every time led to deeper and deeper hydration. The result?  

My skin was taking on a completely new shine! Not just that, my face shape changed due to the firming of skin. I noticed a completely new definition due to the deeper hydration and absorption. Although I could note increased irritation when I used the serum, this would clear up by morning as long as I followed with good hydration (this is not a serum to ever use on its own!) 

The before and after were stark in my mind – you can see mildly increased redness (as I’d used the serum prior to the after picture), but after two weeks of regular use the plumpness was transformative. My skin had a soft glow, was firmer and smoothed. It did not tackle my acne (although many others have had more success on that front), but the texture changes were deeply visible. 

I would absolutely recommend this serum to enhance hydration, especially to plump and firm skin – as it super-boosted my other serums and created a deep glow that I was addicted to. If you are looking to transform your skin for an upcoming event – I recommend starting it as early as possible to maximize results and ensure you have a good, soft routine day of to eliminate any irritation and cool skin. 

This is a really cool serum. I would not recommend it to help reduce acne, as it's more likely to be an irritant than a calming agent. But, if you are looking to boost plumpness, vanish dullness and lift fine lines - that is far more in the right lane for this serum.

I’m not sure if I would be brave enough to jump into 7500 dose, as the 2000 was plenty for me. It really elevated my usually calm skincare routine and if you are looking to firm skin and boost collagen, this is a great addition to your evening skincare.

Looking for quality PDRN to replenish your natural glow? Shop Medicube's high-quality range available on Arktastic!