What is Moist Shot? The meaning of combining hyaluronic acid with PDRN and which skin types it suits

Moist Shot is a skin booster (skin-quality-improving injection) in which hyaluronic acid and PDRN (a DNA component derived from salmon) are injected into the shallow layers of the skin to improve hydration, firmness, and skin texture[1][2]. It is suited to concerns about skin quality such as dryness, fine lines, and pores, but it is not a treatment for adding volume or filling deep wrinkles[3]. Research specifically examining the injection combining the two components is still limited, and efficacy is understood based on studies of each component individually.

What are the roles of hyaluronic acid and PDRN, respectively?

Hyaluronic acid serves to retain moisture in the skin. A review of 13 studies examining hyaluronic acid injection into the shallow skin layers showed improvement in hydration, firmness, brightness, texture, and elasticity[1].

PDRN is a short fragment of DNA extracted from salmon sperm[2]. It is thought to help cells in the skin that produce collagen and similar substances function better[2][4]. PN (polynucleotide), which has a similar name, has a longer DNA chain and is described as working somewhat differently[4].

Which concerns does it suit, and which does it not?

It suits skin-quality concerns such as dryness, lack of firmness, fine lines, and rough texture[3]. A review of studies targeting the under-eye area also showed that PN consistently improved firmness, hydration, and fine lines[3].

By contrast, hyaluronic acid fillers (injectables that build shape) are considered better suited to contouring or adding volume[3]. If deep nasolabial folds or hollowness are your main concerns, comparing it with other treatments is the most efficient approach.

Is there a difference compared to hyaluronic acid injection alone?

In overall appearance assessment, no clear difference emerged. In a trial comparing PN on one side with hyaluronic acid on the other in 27 people around the eyes, there was no difference in overall appearance assessment[5].

However, PN showed greater improvement in the rate of firmness and hydration improvement and in rough skin and pore refinement[5]. Note that this trial compared PN and hyaluronic acid separately and not the combined injection as in Moist Shot.

What is the typical number of sessions and interval between visits?

This is a treatment where a single session produces less dramatic change, but results improve with repeat sessions. In the trial above, injections were given every two weeks for three sessions[5].

The improvement in firmness and hydration gradually decreased over time[5]. Whether to continue and at what interval to receive treatment is decided by observing changes in the skin.

What are the risks of side effects and downtime?

Most are mild, centered on swelling at the injection site, discomfort, and mild bruising[6]. For PN, no reports of complications such as nodules or blood vessel occlusion have been documented[6].

However, with hyaluronic acid injection, rare but serious complications have been reported, including skin damage from accidentally entering blood vessels and vision problems[7]. Before treatment, confirm at what depth and how much product will be injected, and what will be done if complications occur.

What should you confirm at a consultation to see if it is right for you?

Check whether your concern is related to skin quality or to hollowness and sagging. This determines whether Moist Shot is suitable or whether a filler or other treatment would be better.

It is also reassuring to ask about the contents of the product used, the number and interval of sessions, and how to manage if bruising occurs. Since skin condition varies from person to person, have the area examined in person and discuss with your doctor before deciding.