Generally well-tolerated across most skin types including sensitive skin. Patch test recommended for those with known sensitivities to nucleotide-based ingredients. Avoid on broken or actively infected skin. Insufficient safety data during pregnancy and breastfeeding — consult your healthcare provider. Exercise caution when combining with strong exfoliants or retinoids, as increased penetration of bioactive components through a compromised barrier may cause irritation.
Suitability
Lightweight, non-sticky formula is unlikely to congest breakout-prone skin. Not specifically formulated for breakouts but won't aggravate them.
Contains no known irritants and the formula is gentle enough for reactive skin. However, exosome technology is relatively novel — patch testing is advisable for redness-prone skin. Professional guidance recommended.
Fragrance-free, lightweight hydrating fluid suitable for sensitive skin. The gentle formulation avoids harsh actives, though those with very reactive skin should patch test given the novel ingredient technology.
What's your primary concern?
Based on the formulation
What to consider before you decide5 considerations
Is this formula right for you?
Our goal is to ensure you achieve professional-grade results. Sometimes, that means being upfront about what to watch for.
A few things worth knowing
Insufficient safety data exists for topical exosome and PDRN use during pregnancy and lactation. The bioactive signalling nature of these ingredients warrants a precautionary approach.
We recommend: Medik8 Hydr8 B5
A well-established hyaluronic acid serum with a simpler, pregnancy-friendly ingredient profile that provides hydration without novel bioactive signalling ingredients.
Exosomes modulate cellular signalling and immune pathways. Applying them to actively infected or broken skin could lead to unpredictable immune responses or interfere with the healing process.
We recommend: Aspect Soothing Gel
A soothing, calming serum designed for compromised skin that avoids bioactive signalling ingredients.
PDRN is a polydeoxyribonucleotide — a nucleotide-based ingredient. Those with known allergies or sensitivities to this class of ingredients should not use this product.
We recommend: Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
A peptide-based serum from the same brand that supports the appearance of firmness and vitality without nucleotide-based ingredients.
Strong AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids can compromise the skin barrier, potentially increasing penetration of bioactive exosome cargo in unpredictable ways. This may lead to irritation or sensitisation.
We recommend: Medik8 Liquid Peptides
A gentler peptide serum that can be more safely combined with active exfoliants and retinoids in the same routine.
Exosome-mediated immune modulation is not fully characterised in the context of autoimmune skin conditions. Consult a dermatologist before use.
We recommend: Aspect Hydrating Serum
A straightforward hydrating serum without immune-modulating bioactive ingredients, suitable for use under medical supervision.
Multi-Dimensional Visible Rejuvenation for Skin Health
Works well
This serum is built around two cutting-edge ingredients — exosomes and PDRN — that work together to support the appearance of firmer, more luminous skin. The Triple Exosome Complex delivers approximately 151 billion tiny signalling vesicles that help skin look visibly renewed, while Prismatic PDRN (a vegan-sourced ingredient) supports the appearance of plumpness and vitality. Clinical observations suggest visible improvements in the appearance of fine lines, firmness, and overall skin vitality within 7–14 days, though individual results vary. This is an age-positive approach to skin health — it's about supporting your skin's natural radiance rather than fighting against time. For best results, use consistently morning and evening as part of a routine that includes sun protection during the day. This serum pairs well with peptide-based products and gentle antioxidants. If you're already using retinoids, introduce this product gradually and monitor for any sensitivity.
Avoid combining with high-concentration AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids in the same application step. If using retinoids, apply them at alternate times of day or on alternate evenings.
Lightweight Hydration That Replenishes Moisture
Works well
If your skin feels tight, looks dull, or shows fine dehydration lines, this serum's lightweight hydrating fluid texture is designed to replenish moisture without heaviness. The exosome and PDRN technology supports the skin's moisture barrier, helping skin retain hydration more effectively over time. The non-sticky finish means it layers beautifully under moisturisers and sunscreens, making it practical for both morning and evening routines. For skin that's particularly parched, follow with a richer moisturiser to lock in the hydration this serum delivers. Those with dehydration driven by environmental exposure or seasonal changes should see noticeable improvements in skin comfort and luminosity within the first couple of weeks of consistent use.
If dehydration is accompanied by significant barrier compromise (flaking, stinging with basic products), address the barrier first with a simple, soothing routine before introducing this serum.
Supports a Brighter, More Even-Looking Complexion
Use with care
While this serum isn't purpose-built for dark spots, its ability to visibly brighten and support the appearance of even skin tone makes it a worthwhile addition for those concerned about dullness and uneven complexion. The exosome technology and PDRN work to promote overall skin vitality, which can contribute to a more luminous appearance. For those specifically targeting the appearance of dark spots or post-inflammatory marks, this serum works best as a complementary product alongside a dedicated brightening serum containing ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide. It provides the foundational skin health support that helps other targeted products perform better. If you suspect melasma or have persistent pigmentation concerns, it's worth consulting a skin professional for a tailored approach.
Not a standalone solution for significant pigmentation concerns. Best paired with dedicated brightening actives and consistent sun protection.
Gentle Enough for Sensitive Skin
Use with care
This serum's lightweight, non-irritating formula makes it a comfortable choice for those with sensitive skin. It avoids common irritants like fragrance, harsh acids, and alcohol, relying instead on bioactive signalling technology that works with your skin rather than against it. For sensitive skin, the hydrating and soothing properties of this formula can help support overall skin comfort and resilience. The exosome technology is designed to work at a cellular communication level, which is generally well-tolerated, though as with any new product, a patch test is sensible. If your sensitivity is barrier-dependent — meaning your skin reacts more when it's dry or compromised — the hydrating benefits of this serum may be particularly helpful. For neurogenic sensitivity (where skin tingles or flushes easily), introduce gradually and monitor your skin's response.
Patch test before full-face application. If you experience persistent stinging or redness, discontinue use and consult a skin professional.
Considerations for Redness-Prone and Reactive Skin
Use with care
This serum is formulated to be gentle and doesn't contain common rosacea triggers like fragrance, alcohol, or harsh exfoliants. Its calming, hydrating properties may help support comfort in redness-prone skin. However, exosome technology is relatively new in topical skincare, and its effects on reactive skin are not extensively studied. If you have redness-prone or reactive skin, it's important to introduce this product slowly — perhaps every other day initially — and monitor how your skin responds. The lightweight texture is unlikely to cause overheating or occlusion, which is a positive for reactive skin types. We always recommend consulting a skin professional if you're managing persistent redness or reactivity, as they can help determine whether this type of product is appropriate for your specific situation.
Professional referral recommended for persistent redness. Introduce gradually and discontinue if irritation occurs. Exosome-mediated signalling is not fully characterised for reactive skin conditions.
Lightweight Formula Suitable for Breakout-Prone Skin
Use with care
If you're dealing with breakout-prone skin, you'll be pleased to know this serum's lightweight, non-sticky fluid texture is unlikely to clog pores or contribute to congestion. It's not specifically designed to help manage breakouts, but it won't work against you either. The hydrating and skin-vitality benefits can actually support breakout-prone skin by helping maintain a healthy-looking complexion while you use other targeted products. It layers well under oil-free moisturisers and sunscreens. For those with comedonal or papulopustular concerns, this serum is best used alongside dedicated breakout-management products rather than as a replacement for them. If breakouts are moderate or severe, a professional consultation is recommended.
Not a targeted solution for breakouts. If using alongside active breakout treatments (benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid), apply at different times to avoid potential irritation from increased penetration.
A Comfortable Choice for Oily Skin Types
Use with care
The lightweight, non-sticky hydrating fluid texture of this serum makes it a comfortable fit for those with naturally oilier skin. It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, which means it won't add to that midday shine or feel heavy under makeup or sunscreen. While it's not specifically formulated to help control excess oil or refine the appearance of pores, it provides hydration and skin vitality benefits that complement oil-management routines. Well-hydrated skin can sometimes appear less congested overall. This is a skin characteristic that simply means your skin produces more oil — it's not a problem to fix, just something to work with. This serum respects that by delivering benefits without disrupting your skin's natural balance.
Supportive Care for Skin Experiencing Change
Use with care
When your skin is going through fluctuations — whether due to life stages, stress, or other factors — a gentle, hydrating serum that supports overall skin vitality can be a stabilising presence in your routine. This serum's non-irritating formula and multi-dimensional approach to skin health make it a sensible companion during times of change. The exosome and PDRN technology supports the appearance of healthy, resilient-looking skin, which can be particularly welcome when your complexion feels unpredictable. It won't interfere with other products you might be using to manage specific concerns that arise during hormonal fluctuations. If skin changes are persistent or severe, consulting a skin professional or healthcare provider is always a good idea to rule out underlying factors that might benefit from targeted support.
Insufficient safety data during pregnancy and lactation — consult your healthcare provider before use.
Great fit for you if
- You want a multi-dimensional approach to supporting the appearance of firmer, more luminous skin
- You're interested in next-generation skincare technology (exosomes and PDRN)
- Your skin feels dehydrated and you want a lightweight serum that hydrates without heaviness
- You prefer a gentle, non-irritating formula suitable for sensitive skin
- You want a versatile serum that fits into both morning and evening routines
Not the best match if
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (insufficient safety data for these novel ingredients)
- You have active skin infections, open wounds, or a severely compromised barrier
- You have a known allergy to nucleotide-based ingredients
- You're looking for a targeted breakout-management or oil-control product
- You prefer products with a long track record of published independent clinical studies
What to expect
A lightweight, non-sticky fluid that absorbs quickly. Brand clinical data suggests visible improvements in luminosity, firmness, and the appearance of fine lines within 7–14 days, though individual results will vary. Full benefits typically develop over 4–8 weeks of consistent use. No significant adjustment period expected for most skin types.
Expert Consultation
Still unsure? Speak to a clinician.
Protocol & sequencing
For sensitive or reactive skin, start with once daily (PM) for the first week, then increase to twice daily if well tolerated.
Avoid applying directly after high-concentration AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids in the same routine step. If using retinoids, consider applying this serum in the AM and retinoids in the PM, or alternate evenings. Pairs well with peptide serums, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant products.
Questions we hear a lot
What are exosomes and PDRN, and why are they in a skincare serum?
Exosomes are tiny natural messengers (think of them as little parcels) that carry beneficial signals between cells. PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a vegan-sourced ingredient derived from DNA building blocks that supports skin vitality. Together, they work to help skin look firmer, more hydrated, and more luminous — essentially supporting your skin's natural renewal processes from the surface level.
How quickly will I see results?
The brand's clinical data suggests visible improvements in luminosity and the appearance of fine lines within 7–14 days. However, individual results vary based on skin type, age, and overall routine. More significant improvements in the appearance of firmness and tone typically develop over 4–8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
Can I use this with my retinol or retinal product?
Yes, but with care. It's best to use this serum and your retinoid at different times — for example, this serum in the morning and your retinoid in the evening. Avoid layering them directly on top of each other, as the exosome technology may increase penetration of other actives, potentially causing irritation.
Is this suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, the lightweight, fragrance-free formula is designed to be gentle. It's listed as suitable for sensitive skin by the brand. That said, because exosome technology is relatively new in topical skincare, a patch test on a small area is always a sensible first step if your skin tends to be reactive.
Is this worth the investment compared to a standard hydrating serum?
This is a premium product using cutting-edge ingredient technology. If your primary concern is simple hydration, a well-formulated hyaluronic acid serum may deliver similar moisture benefits at a lower price point. Where this serum differentiates itself is in its multi-dimensional approach — targeting the appearance of firmness, luminosity, and fine lines simultaneously. It's best suited for those who want a comprehensive rejuvenation serum rather than a single-benefit product.
Still unsure?
Book a complimentary consultation with one of our skin experts. They'll help you find the right product for your specific concerns.
What's inside and why it matters2 actives2 minute read
What's inside
Exosomes (Triple Exosome Complex)
Intercellular signalling vesicles that deliver bioactive cargo to skin cells, supporting the appearance of renewal, firmness, and luminosity
Professionally Observed
~151 billion exosomes per bottle
Tiny natural messenger parcels that carry beneficial signals to your skin cells, helping skin look renewed and more vibrant. Think of them as delivery vehicles that bring helpful instructions to your skin.
May increase penetration of co-applied actives through bioactive signalling — avoid layering with high-concentration acids or retinoids
Unpredictable immune modulation possible on compromised or actively infected skin
PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) — Prismatic PDRN (Vegan)
Supports skin vitality and the appearance of hydration, firmness, and overall skin health through adenosine receptor pathway activation
Professionally Observed
A vegan ingredient made from DNA building blocks that helps skin look healthier, plumper, and more hydrated. It's been used in medical settings (like wound care) and is now being adapted for skincare to support the appearance of rejuvenated skin.
Those with known hypersensitivity to nucleotide-based ingredients should avoid
Caution in autoimmune skin conditions due to potential immune pathway modulation
How this formula works
Want to know how these ingredients work together?
Clinical Analysis
Realistic results
Brand clinical data suggests visible improvements from 7 days, with progressive benefits over 4–8 weeks. Individual results depend on skin type, age, overall routine, and consistency of use.
Week 1–2
Improved hydration and a subtle boost in luminosity. Skin may feel more comfortable and look slightly more radiant. These are the earliest and most consistently reported changes.
Week 2–4
More noticeable improvements in the appearance of skin tone evenness and overall vitality. Fine dehydration lines may appear less visible. Skin texture should feel smoother.
Week 4–8
Progressive improvements in the appearance of firmness and fine lines. The multi-dimensional benefits become more apparent with consistent use. This is where the deeper rejuvenation effects are most likely to become visible.
Week 8+
Cumulative benefits plateau at their maximum for this product. Continued use maintains results. If you haven't seen meaningful improvement by this point, this product may not be the right fit for your skin.
Results vary significantly based on age, baseline skin condition, sun exposure habits, and overall skincare routine. Those with more visible signs of ageing or dehydration may notice more dramatic improvements. Younger skin with fewer concerns may see subtler changes. Consistent twice-daily use and adequate sun protection are essential for optimal outcomes.
Reassessment Guide
Give this product a full 8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use before making a judgement. If you see no improvement in hydration or luminosity within the first 3–4 weeks, it may not be the right product for your skin. If you experience any persistent irritation, discontinue and consult a skin professional.
Deeper questions
How does this compare to injectable exosome treatments I've seen at clinics?
Injectable exosome treatments deliver their cargo directly into the dermis (deeper skin layers), which is why they tend to produce more dramatic results. This topical serum works at the surface and upper skin layers, so the mechanism and intensity are different. Think of it as a daily maintenance approach versus an in-clinic boost. Many professionals use topical exosome products as a complement to in-clinic treatments, helping to extend and maintain results between sessions.
What does 'vegan PDRN' mean? How is it different from traditional PDRN?
Traditional PDRN is derived from salmon sperm DNA — it's been used in medical settings for years. Medik8's 'Prismatic PDRN' is a vegan alternative, meaning it's produced without animal-derived ingredients. The functional mechanism (activating adenosine A2A receptors to support skin vitality) is intended to be the same, though the sourcing and manufacturing process differ. This is a meaningful distinction for those who prefer cruelty-free or vegan skincare.
Can I use this alongside my vitamin C serum?
Yes, this pairs well with vitamin C serums. You could apply your vitamin C in the morning for antioxidant protection and this serum either layered underneath or used in the evening. Alternatively, they can be layered in the same routine — apply the thinner, more watery product first. There are no known negative interactions between exosomes/PDRN and vitamin C.
Is there any risk of my skin becoming 'dependent' on exosomes?
No. Exosomes in topical skincare work by delivering signalling molecules that support your skin's natural processes — they don't replace or override those processes. If you stop using the product, your skin will simply return to its baseline state over time. There's no withdrawal effect or dependency risk. Think of it like nutrition — your skin benefits while you're providing it, but stopping doesn't cause harm.
How does this fit into a routine with Medik8's retinal products?
A sensible approach is to use this serum in the morning (AM) and your Medik8 Crystal Retinal in the evening (PM). This avoids layering the exosome technology directly with retinal, which could potentially increase penetration and cause irritation. If you want to use both in the evening, apply this serum first, wait a few minutes for absorption, and then apply your retinal — but monitor for any sensitivity and reduce frequency if needed.
How to use this product
Active ingredients
- Exosomes (Triple Exosome Complex)~151 billion per bottle (undisclosed w/v%)Intercellular signalling vesicles supporting the appearance of skin renewal, firmness, and luminosity
- PDRN (Prismatic PDRN — Vegan)Supports skin vitality, hydration, and the appearance of rejuvenation through adenosine receptor pathway activation
Layering guidance
Your next steps14 alternatives
While Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ 30ml is an excellent product, it may not be the ideal choice for every skin concern. If any of the considerations above apply to you, these clinically validated alternatives may be a better fit.
Recommended Clinical Alternatives
If acne is your focus
"A Medik8 serum specifically formulated for breakout-prone skin, combining niacinamide and peptides to help manage breakouts while supporting skin health."
"A serum designed for breakout-prone skin that provides targeted support for managing congestion and breakouts."
If ageing is your focus
"Another exosome/growth factor-based serum using stem cell-derived technology. A direct competitor in the bioactive signalling space, offering a similar multi-dimensional approach to the appearance of skin rejuvenation."
"Another exosome-based treatment serum, offering a plant-derived exosome approach. Provides a comparable technology platform from a different brand for those wanting to compare exosome products."
"A peptide-based alternative from the same brand for those who want visible firmness and vitality support but prefer more established ingredient technology over exosomes."
If rosacea is your focus
"Specifically formulated for redness-prone skin with targeted calming ingredients. A more appropriate first choice for those managing visible redness."
"A well-established calming serum with a proven gentle profile, better suited as a primary product for reactive, redness-prone skin."
If dehydration is your focus
"A dedicated hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 hydrating serum from the same brand. A more affordable, proven approach to replenishing moisture for those whose primary concern is dehydration."
"A well-formulated hyaluronic acid serum that provides intensive hydration with a strong evidence base. A solid alternative for those focused primarily on moisture replenishment."
If sensitivity is your focus
"A purpose-built soothing serum for sensitive skin with a well-established, gentle ingredient profile. A safer choice for those with very reactive skin who are cautious about novel bioactive ingredients."
"A calming, soothing serum designed specifically for sensitive skin types, using well-characterised gentle ingredients."
If hormonal changes is your focus
If hyperpigmentation is your focus
"A purpose-built brightening serum with targeted ingredients for the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone. Better suited as a primary product for pigmentation concerns."
"A dedicated pigmentation-focused serum with multiple brightening actives. A more targeted choice for those whose primary concern is the appearance of dark spots."
Learn More About Your Concerns
Want a plan built around your skin?
Get a personalised recommendation for ageing based on your skin profile.
Start your Skin Blueprint
