The 3 It Ingredients of 2025 (And Why Everyone’s Talking About Them)

I recently stumbled upon an article titled, ‘Could salmon sperm be the key to radiant and youthful skin?’ My knee-jerk reaction? Pls god, no. But after a deep dive into the research (and a reality check with the experts), the verdict is in: Lather me up! 

If the annals of skincare history have taught us anything, it’s that the more outlandish the ingredient, the more likely it is to become our next obsession. Snail mucin, bee venom, placenta… Need I go on?

While 2024 was all about skin flooding, slugging, and barrier-boosting, 2025 is ushering in a new era of biotech-driven skincare, where the science is as impressive as the results. At the forefront? Three powerhouse ingredients: Peptides, PDRN, and EGF. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill actives; they’re the heavyweights of skin repair, collagen regeneration, and next-level rejuvenation. Here’s why they’re taking over dermatologists’ shelves (and about to claim prime real estate in your beauty cabinet). 

Best for: Sensitive, ageing, or compromised skin

What exactly is PDRN? Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) is derived from—you guessed it—salmon sperm DNA. Before you recoil, know this: it’s been a go-to in wound healing and regenerative medicine for years. Now, it’s making its way into skincare, promising unparalleled skin repair, hydration, and elasticity. Nothing fishy about that.

PDRN acts like a cell whisperer, informing your skin to repair itself faster while stimulating collagen production. This makes it a game-changer for anyone dealing with redness, sensitivity, or post-inflammatory pigmentation (read: if you’ve overdone it with your retinol, this is your new best friend). Plus, it’s an absolute hydration hero. Think plumper, bouncier skin that looks like it’s fresh from a facial. 

Recent research also indicates that PDRN plays a role in DNA repair, making it an excellent post-procedure choice for those who have undergone microneedling or laser treatments. However, while it is highly effective, its efficacy depends on the concentration and formulation within skincare products.

 If your skin barrier is on the verge of collapse, if you’ve dabbled in microneedling, lasers, or aggressive exfoliation, or if you simply want to future-proof your skin against ageing, PDRN is your ride-or-die.

Best for: Fine lines, loss of firmness, anyone looking for an anti-ageing boost

“Peptides are the silent powerhouse of skincare,” says Mark Curry, co-founder of The Inkey List. “They work beneath the skin’s surface to strengthen, repair, and rejuvenate your skin. When used correctly, they can be transformative.”

Think of peptides as little messengers, telling your skin to produce more collagen and elastin. The result? Firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. Unlike some other active ingredients (see: retinol), peptides are incredibly gentle, meaning even the most sensitive skin types can reap the benefits.

Peptides vary in function. Some signal collagen production, others boost hydration or improve skin barrier function. They’re also best paired with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid for enhanced absorption and effectiveness.

If your skin is losing its bounce or fine lines are creeping in, peptides should be in your arsenal. They play well with others, so you can layer them with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or combine them with more active treatments for a multi-pronged approach to ageing gracefully.

Best for: Mature skin, post-procedure skin, or anyone serious about anti-ageing

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) sounds like something cooked up in a sci-fi lab, but it’s actually a naturally occurring protein in our skin that promotes cell renewal and collagen synthesis. The catch? Our EGF levels decline with age, leading to slower skin repair and increased signs of ageing. Enter lab-engineered EGF serums, which can help wind back the clock.

 EGF is being hailed as the ultimate skin rejuvenator. It speeds up cell turnover, making skin appear fresher, plumper, and more radiant. It’s also a top-tier post-procedure pick — whether you’ve had a chemical peel or a microneedling session, EGF helps skin bounce back faster.

Note: For EGF to be effective, it needs to be formulated correctly—some studies suggest that EGF molecules are too large to penetrate the skin deeply unless delivered in a bioengineered format. New advancements in skincare technology are addressing this, making modern EGF serums more effective than ever.

 If you’re noticing more fine lines, loss of elasticity, or dullness, EGF is your answer. It’s particularly beneficial for those undergoing in-office treatments or anyone who wants to maintain youthful, resilient skin for the long haul.

If you have compromised, sensitive, or barrier-damaged skin, PDRN will soothe, repair, and rebuild. If you’re starting to see signs of ageing but want a gentle approach, peptides are the way to go. And, if you’re serious about anti-ageing and want science-backed regeneration, EGF is your holy grail.

Of course, the ultimate power move? Layering them strategically. Peptides in your morning routine, PDRN post-procedure or for hydration, and EGF at night for deep repair. As always, it’s essential to introduce them gradually and monitor skin responses to prevent potential irritation. Better yet and as we’d always advise, check in with your dermatologist first. 

The future of skincare has officially arrived.

Image credit: @casashoprare