The aesthetic industry is constantly evolving, with innovative treatments emerging to enhance skin quality and combat signs of ageing. One of the latest buzzwords taking the industry by storm is polynucleotides—a breakthrough treatment that has been making waves for its regenerative and skin-rejuvenating properties.
Although relatively new to aesthetics, polynucleotides have been used for years in clinical medicine, particularly in the treatment of burns and wound healing. For instance, fish skin has long been used in reconstructive medicine to regenerate damaged tissue. Now, this regenerative technology has been adapted into an injectable form to help restore and rejuvenate ageing skin.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are highly purified fractions of DNA and RNA, derived primarily from salmon sperm. These bioactive molecules are classified as injectable bio-stimulators, meaning they encourage the skin to repair and renew itself rather than simply providing temporary hydration or plumping.
When injected into the dermis, polynucleotides activate fibroblasts, the skin’s powerhouse cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. As we age, fibroblast activity declines, leading to thinner skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. By stimulating these fibroblasts, polynucleotides not only restore collagen and elastin production but also improve the quality of these proteins, leading to firmer, healthier, and more youthful-looking skin.
Additionally, polynucleotides have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them highly effective in treating conditions like hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and overall skin sensitivity.
How Do Polynucleotides Differ from Skin Boosters?
Many people wonder if polynucleotides are the same as skin boosters like Profhilo, Hydro and Hydro Max. While both are injectables, they work very differently:
Skin boosters primarily hydrate and plump the skin, acting as an injectable moisturiser to improve skin texture and radiance.
Polynucleotides, on the other hand, work on a cellular level to repair and regenerate skin by stimulating collagen and elastin production, reducing inflammation, and improving overall skin health.
If you’re looking for long-term skin renewal rather than just hydration, polynucleotides offer a more transformational approach.
Are Polynucleotides Better Than Fillers?
Polynucleotides and dermal fillers serve different purposes, and the choice between them depends on the desired outcome.
Polynucleotides improve skin quality without altering facial volume or structure. They are ideal for reducing fine lines, tightening loose skin, and improving pigmentation.
Fillers are used for volume restoration—perfect for enhancing cheeks, lips, or jawlines.
For example, under-eye fillers can sometimes lead to puffiness or unnatural results, whereas polynucleotides provide a more natural rejuvenation, improving dark circles, fine lines, and under-eye hollowness without the risk of excess swelling.
If your goal is healthier, firmer skin without changing facial contours, polynucleotides may be the better choice. However, for significant volume restoration, fillers remain the go-to option.
What Concerns Can Polynucleotides Address?
Polynucleotide treatments can significantly improve a wide range of skin concerns, including:
Fine lines and wrinkles – Stimulates collagen and elastin for smoother, firmer skin. Loose, sagging skin – Helps tighten and rejuvenate ageing skin. Scarring and pigmentation – Reduces acne scars, sun damage, and age spots. Rosacea and inflammation – Calms redness and soothes irritated skin. Dark under-eye circles and hollowness – Provides subtle volume and skin renewal without the puffiness often associated with fillers.
Treatment Protocol: How Many Sessions Are Needed?
For optimal results, a course of three treatments spaced four weeks apart is recommended. Results develop gradually over time as fibroblasts are stimulated to produce new collagen and elastin. Unlike fillers, where results are immediate, polynucleotides work at a deeper level to improve skin function long-term.
Longevity: Results typically last 9–12 months, making it a low-maintenance but highly effective treatment.
When to Choose Polynucleotides vs. Skin Boosters?
If you’re attending a big event (like a wedding) and want a quick glow, a skin booster is the better option.
If you’re looking for deep skin renewal and are willing to wait for more long-term improvements, polynucleotides are the superior choice.
Where Can Polynucleotides Be Used?
Polynucleotides are highly versatile and can be used in various areas, including:
Under the eyes – Treats dark circles, hollowness, and fine lines. Face – Improves texture, tightens sagging skin, and reduces wrinkles. Neck – Firms loose skin and reduces neck bands. Chest (décolletage) – Smooths lines and rejuvenates aging skin. Scars & pigmentation – Helps with acne scars, sun damage, and overall skin tone.
Are Polynucleotides Safe? What Are the Side Effects?
Polynucleotide injections are considered very safe, with minimal downtime. However, as with any injectable treatment, some temporary side effects may occur, including:
Mild redness, swelling, or bruising, which typically subsides within 1–2 days. Depending on the injection technique, small papules (tiny bumps) may appear but will settle naturally within a few days.
There are no major adverse effects reported, making polynucleotides a safe and effective choice for skin rejuvenation.
Final Thoughts: Are Polynucleotides Worth It?
Polynucleotides are an exciting next-generation treatment in aesthetics, offering deep skin regeneration rather than just surface-level hydration or volume. Whether you’re looking to improve skin quality, reduce pigmentation, treat fine lines, or rejuvenate delicate areas like the under-eye, this innovative treatment is a game-changer.
With minimal downtime and long-lasting results, polynucleotides are a fantastic addition to any aesthetic treatment plan—helping you achieve healthier, more youthful skin in the most natural way possible.
Book in for a consultation with me to discuss if polynucleotides are right for you.
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