POLYNUCLEOTIDES EXPLAINED: THE UK'S FASTEST-GROWING SKIN TREATMENT

AT A GLANCE

• What it is: An injectable treatment using purified DNA fragments to stimulate skin regeneration
• Best for: Fine lines, dull skin, loss of elasticity, under-eye hollows, acne scars, sensitive/rosacea-prone skin
• Sessions needed: Typically 2–4 sessions, spaced 2–3 weeks apart
• Results last: 6–12+ months with maintenance
• Downtime: Minimal — mild redness or swelling for 24–48 hours

WHAT ARE POLYNUCLEOTIDES?

Polynucleotides are naturally occurring molecules made up of long chains of nucleotides — the building blocks of DNA and RNA. In aesthetic medicine, these purified DNA fragments are derived from salmon or trout and then highly refined for safe injection into human skin.

When injected, polynucleotides act as 'bio-stimulators', triggering your skin's natural repair and regeneration processes. Unlike dermal fillers (which add volume) or Botox (which relaxes muscles), polynucleotides work at a cellular level to improve the fundamental health and quality of your skin.

You may have seen headlines about the 'salmon sperm facial' — this is what they're referring to. While the name sounds unusual, the treatment has over 40 years of scientific research behind it, with roots in regenerative medicine where polynucleotides have been used to heal burns and wounds.

HOW DO POLYNUCLEOTIDES WORK?

Polynucleotides work through several mechanisms that together create visible improvements in skin quality:

Fibroblast Stimulation

Polynucleotides activate fibroblasts — the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. Clinical studies have shown a 47% increase in collagen production within just 23 days of treatment. This leads to firmer, more elastic skin over time.

Cellular Repair & Regeneration

The DNA fragments essentially 'instruct' skin cells to function more efficiently, helping damaged or ageing cells repair themselves. This is why polynucleotides are particularly effective for sun-damaged skin, scarring, and areas showing signs of premature ageing.

Deep Hydration

Polynucleotides attract and bind water molecules within the skin, improving hydration from within. This results in a plumper, more radiant complexion without adding artificial volume.

Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Effects

Unlike many aesthetic treatments, polynucleotides have anti-inflammatory properties, making them suitable for sensitive skin conditions like rosacea and eczema. They also help protect against oxidative stress — one of the key drivers of skin ageing.

WHAT CAN POLYNUCLEOTIDES TREAT?

Polynucleotides are remarkably versatile. Browse polynucleotide treatments near you to find a vetted clinic offering this treatment.

Skin Quality Concerns

• Fine lines and wrinkles — especially early signs of ageing and crepey skin texture
• Loss of elasticity and firmness — skin that feels less 'bouncy' than it used to
• Dull, tired-looking skin — lack of radiance and uneven skin tone
• Dehydrated skin — that doesn't respond well to topical moisturisers alone
• Sun-damaged skin — pigmentation and textural changes from UV exposure

Specific Concerns

• Under-eye hollows and dark circles — one of the most popular treatment areas, as polynucleotides are safer here than traditional fillers for many patients
• Acne scars and post-inflammatory marks — the regenerative properties help improve scarred tissue
• Stretch marks — early evidence suggests polynucleotides can improve their appearance
• Sensitive or rosacea-prone skin — the anti-inflammatory properties make this a rare injectable option for reactive skin types

Treatment Areas

• Face (full face or targeted zones like under-eyes, cheeks, forehead)
• Neck
• Décolletage (chest area)
• Hands
• Scalp (for hair regeneration — an emerging application)

WHAT TO EXPECT: THE TREATMENT PROCESS

Before Your Appointment

You'll have a consultation where your practitioner assesses your skin, discusses your goals, and confirms you're a suitable candidate. If you have a fish or seafood allergy, you should mention this as polynucleotides are derived from salmon DNA (though highly purified, allergies are a contraindication).

During Treatment

The treatment takes approximately 30–45 minutes. A topical numbing cream is usually applied beforehand for comfort. Using a fine needle or cannula, the practitioner injects small amounts of polynucleotides into the targeted areas, often using a grid-like pattern to ensure even distribution.

Most patients describe the sensation as mild pinpricks — less uncomfortable than many other injectable treatments.

After Treatment

You may experience mild redness, swelling, or small bumps at injection sites — these typically settle within 24–48 hours. Most people return to normal activities immediately, making this a true 'lunchtime treatment'.

Treatment Course

Unlike single-session treatments, polynucleotides work cumulatively. Most practitioners recommend:

• Initial course: 2–4 sessions, spaced 2–3 weeks apart
• Maintenance: Top-up treatments every 6–12 months to maintain results

RESULTS: WHAT TO EXPECT AND WHEN

Polynucleotides work gradually — this isn't an instant-gratification treatment. Because they stimulate your own regenerative processes, results build over time:

• Week 1–2: Initial hydration boost; skin may look fresher
• Week 4–6: Improved texture and tone become noticeable
• Week 8–12: Full regenerative effects visible — firmer, more elastic, healthier-looking skin
• 6–12+ months: Results can last up to a year or longer with proper maintenance

Clinical studies have demonstrated a 52% improvement in epidermal thickness within 23 days — meaning the improvements are measurable, not just perceived.

POLYNUCLEOTIDES VS PROFHILO: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

This is one of the most common questions we hear. Both are 'skin quality' treatments (rather than fillers), but they work differently:

Which Should You Choose?

• Choose Profhilo if: You want quick hydration, an immediate glow, and are in your late 20s–40s with early signs of ageing
• Choose Polynucleotides if: You want deeper regeneration, have more mature or damaged skin, sensitive/rosacea-prone skin, or specific concerns like under-eye hollows or scarring
• Consider both: Many practitioners now combine the two — Profhilo for immediate hydration and glow, polynucleotides for deeper, longer-term repair. They can be done 4–6 weeks apart.

IS IT SAFE? SIDE EFFECTS AND RISKS

Polynucleotides have an excellent safety profile, backed by over 90 clinical trials and 1.8 million uses globally with no reported serious adverse reactions. The DNA fragments are highly purified and biocompatible with human tissue.

Common Side Effects (temporary)

• Mild redness at injection sites
• Slight swelling or small bumps
• Minor bruising
• Tenderness at treated areas

These effects typically resolve within 24–48 hours.

Who Should Avoid Polynucleotides?

• Those with fish or seafood allergies
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Anyone with active skin infections in the treatment area
• Those with autoimmune conditions (discuss with your practitioner)

POPULAR POLYNUCLEOTIDE BRANDS IN THE UK

Several brands are commonly used in UK clinics. While they all contain polynucleotides, there are subtle differences in formulation and concentration:

• Ameela: One of the most widely used brands, available in different formulations for face, eyes, and body
• Nucleofill: Known for high polynucleotide concentration; available in 'strong' and 'medium' versions
• Plinest: Italian brand with a range targeting different skin concerns
• Vitaran: Newer to the UK market
• Rejuran (PDRN): Popular in Asia; technically uses PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotides), a specific type of polynucleotide

Your practitioner will recommend the most appropriate product based on your skin concerns and treatment area.

COMBINING POLYNUCLEOTIDES WITH OTHER TREATMENTS

Polynucleotides work beautifully alongside other aesthetic treatments. In fact, some practitioners report that polynucleotides can extend the lifespan of dermal fillers by up to 40% when used together. Common combinations include:

• Polynucleotides + Profhilo: Regeneration plus hydration for comprehensive skin quality improvement
• Polynucleotides + microneedling: Enhanced delivery and boosted results
• Polynucleotides + anti-wrinkle injections: Botox for expression lines, polynucleotides for overall skin health
• Polynucleotides + dermal fillers: Fillers for volume, polynucleotides for skin quality
• Polynucleotides + laser treatments: Polynucleotides can support skin healing post-laser

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Does it hurt?

Most patients describe mild discomfort — less than dermal fillers. Numbing cream is applied beforehand, and the fine needles used make the treatment quite tolerable.

How much does it cost?

Prices in the UK typically range from £250–£400 per session, depending on the treatment area and product used. A full course of 3 sessions would therefore cost £750–£1,200.

Can I have polynucleotides under my eyes?

Yes — this is one of the most popular treatment areas. Polynucleotides are often preferred over traditional under-eye filler for patients prone to puffiness or those who want subtle improvement without adding volume.

Are results permanent?

No, but they are long-lasting. Results typically last 6–12 months, after which maintenance treatments are recommended. The regenerative effects are cumulative, so ongoing treatment can continue to improve skin quality.

Can I wear makeup afterwards?

It's best to avoid makeup for 12–24 hours post-treatment to reduce infection risk. After that, you can resume your normal routine.

What age should I start?

There's no strict age requirement, but polynucleotides are typically most beneficial from the late 30s onwards when collagen production naturally declines. Younger patients with specific concerns like acne scarring may also benefit.

READY TO TRY POLYNUCLEOTIDES?

All clinics on MARBL are vetted for qualifications, insurance, and clinical standards. Browse polynucleotide treatments near you to find a trusted practitioner, or read our full polynucleotides guide for more details.

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