Polynucleotides Explained: The Regenerative Future of Skin

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A New Chapter in Skin Health

In the refined world of aesthetic medicine, the conversation is quietly but decisively shifting. Where once the focus was purely on filling lines and restoring volume, a new frontier is capturing the attention of clinicians and clients alike: regenerative treatments. Leading this evolution are polynucleotides, a treatment gaining recognition not for what it adds, but for what it awakens within the skin itself.

Often heralded as the next step in sophisticated skin rejuvenation, polynucleotides represent a move towards bio-revitalisation—working with the body’s innate power to heal and regenerate. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ from the familiar world of dermal fillers?

What Are Polynucleotides?

At its core, a polynucleotide treatment is a form of injectable bio-stimulator. The product is composed of highly purified, filtered, and sterilised chains of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA. These polynucleotides are typically derived from salmon or trout DNA, which bears a remarkable similarity to human DNA, making it highly compatible and safe for clinical use.

It is essential to understand that this is not about injecting foreign genetic material. The polynucleotide chains act as messengers, sending signals to the skin cells to become more active. They don’t alter your own DNA; they simply provide the tools and the impetus for your skin to begin repairing and rejuvenating itself.

The primary actions of polynucleotides in the skin are threefold:

• Fibroblast Stimulation: They encourage fibroblast cells—the powerhouses of our skin—to produce fresh collagen and elastin. This helps to rebuild the skin’s underlying structure, improving firmness and elasticity over time.
• Intense Hydration: Polynucleotides have a strong hydrophilic (water-loving) quality, drawing and binding water molecules within the skin. This leads to deep, lasting hydration and a visible improvement in skin plumpness and glow.
• Antioxidant Effect: They act as ‘scavengers,’ trapping and neutralising free radicals. This helps to protect the skin from cellular damage caused by environmental stressors like UV radiation and pollution, creating a healthier environment for skin cells to thrive.

Polynucleotides vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: A Tale of Two Treatments

Understanding the distinction between polynucleotides and traditional hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers is key. While both are injectable treatments, their purpose and mechanism are fundamentally different.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

HA fillers are gels designed to provide immediate structure and volume. They are masterfully used to fill a specific wrinkle, lift the cheekbones, or define the jawline. Their job is to physically occupy space and restore lost contours. The result is typically visible straight away.

Polynucleotides

Polynucleotides, by contrast, do not provide any significant initial volume. You will not walk out of the clinic with sculpted cheeks. Instead, they work subtly in the background. The treatment involves a series of fine injections across an area—such as the delicate under-eye, the neck, or the décolletage—to improve the overall quality, density, and health of the tissue itself. The results are gradual, appearing over a period of weeks and months as your skin begins its regenerative process.

Think of it this way: a filler is like an exquisite piece of scaffolding, propping up a structure exactly where needed. A polynucleotide treatment is like repairing and reinforcing the building’s foundations, allowing it to become stronger and more resilient on its own.

The Treatment Journey: What to Expect

A course of polynucleotide treatments typically begins with a thorough consultation with a qualified medical practitioner. They will assess your skin quality and determine if you are a suitable candidate.

The procedure itself is relatively straightforward, involving multiple small injections into the dermal layer of the skin. To enhance comfort, a topical anaesthetic is usually applied beforehand. Following the treatment, it is common to see small bumps or papules at the injection sites, which typically resolve within 24-72 hours. Minor bruising may also occur.

For optimal results, a course of two to three sessions, spaced two to four weeks apart, is generally recommended. The true benefits—smoother texture, improved radiance, and greater elasticity—unfold gradually as your cells get to work.

Who Is It For?

Polynucleotides are an excellent option for individuals who are not necessarily seeking to alter their facial shape, but rather wish to improve the intrinsic quality of their skin. It is particularly valued for treating challenging areas where traditional fillers may not be suitable, such as:

• The delicate under-eye area to improve dark circles and crepey skin.
• The neck and décolletage to address skin laxity and texture.
• The hands, to restore skin density and vitality.

It is important to note that individuals with a fish allergy may not be suitable candidates, and as with all aesthetic procedures, it is not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. A detailed discussion with your clinician is essential to ensure the treatment is right for you.

As our understanding of skin biology deepens, treatments like polynucleotides pave the way for a more holistic and personalised approach to aesthetics—one focused on fostering genuine skin health from the inside out.

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To understand the best approach for your individual skin concerns, we always recommend a consultation with a qualified medical professional. '''