What are polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are biostimulatory injectable treatments derived from purified DNA fragments (usually of salmon origin). They are used in medical aesthetics to repair, regenerate, and improve skin quality rather than add volume or freeze muscles.
Polynucleotides work at a cellular level to support skin healing and rejuvenation.
What areas can be treated?
Polynucleotides can be used on:
- Face
- Under-eye area
- Neck
- Décolletage
- Hands
- Body areas with poor skin quality or scarring
They are particularly popular for delicate areas, such as the under-eyes.
What skin concerns can polynucleotides treat?
Polynucleotides may help improve:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Skin laxity
- Thin or crepey skin
- Dark circles and under-eye hollows (skin quality, not volume)
- Acne scarring
- Dehydrated or dull skin
- Sun-damaged skin
- Redness and inflammation
How do polynucleotides work?
Polynucleotides:
- Stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin
- Improve skin hydration and elasticity
- Support tissue repair and regeneration
- Have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
They do not add volume like dermal fillers and do not affect muscle movement like botulinum toxin.
What to expect during treatment
- Treatment usually takes 30–45 minutes
- A fine needle or cannula is used
- A topical numbing cream may be applied
- Mild discomfort may be felt during injections
- Small bumps or redness may be visible immediately after treatment
What happens after treatment?
- Mild redness, swelling, or small injection bumps are common
- Minor bruising may occur
- Most side effects settle within 24–72 hours
- You can usually return to normal activities the same day
When will I see results?
- Results develop gradually
- Early improvements may be seen within 2–3 weeks
- Best results are usually seen after a course of treatments (commonly 2–3 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart)
- Skin continues to improve for several months
Possible side effects
Common and temporary side effects include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Small lumps at injection sites
Rare side effects may include:
- Infection
- Allergic reaction
- Prolonged swelling
Serious complications are rare when treatment is performed by a trained medical professional.
Who should NOT have polynucleotide treatment?
Polynucleotide treatment may not be suitable if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a fish or seafood allergy
- Have active skin infection or inflammation at the treatment site
- Have certain autoimmune or connective tissue disorders (unless medically cleared)
- Are unwell on the day of treatment
Always disclose your full medical history during consultation.
Aftercare advice
For 24–48 hours after treatment:
- Avoid touching or massaging the treated area
- Avoid strenuous exercise
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid heat (saunas, steam rooms)
- Avoid facial treatments
Use gentle skincare only and apply SPF 30+ daily.
Are results permanent?
No. Polynucleotides provide long-lasting but temporary skin improvement. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to sustain results.
Consent and safety
Polynucleotides are a medical injectable treatment and should only be administered by a qualified practitioner. A consultation and informed consent are required. Individual results vary, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.