What Are Polynucleotides?

Polynucleotides, sometimes referred to as PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), are chains of DNA fragments derived from highly purified salmon or trout DNA. Before that puts you off, it is worth knowing that salmon DNA has a remarkably high compatibility with human tissue, which is why it has been used in medical and wound-healing research for decades. When injected into the skin, polynucleotides work by stimulating your own cells to regenerate and repair. They activate fibroblasts, which are the cells responsible for producing collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Rather than introducing a foreign substance to fill or freeze, polynucleotides switch on your skin's own repair mechanisms and encourage it to heal and rebuild from within.

What Do Polynucleotides Treat?

Polynucleotides are highly versatile and can be used to treat a range of skin concerns, including: Skin laxity and loss of firmness, particularly around the eyes, cheeks and jawline. Fine lines and crepey skin texture. Dull or uneven skin tone and poor skin quality. Dark circles and thin skin under the eyes, where results can be particularly striking. Sun damage and pigmentation. Hair loss, where polynucleotides are injected into the scalp to stimulate follicle activity.

How Are Polynucleotides Different from Profhilo?

This is a question we get asked often, since both are classed as skin boosters. The key difference is in how they work. Profhilo uses hyaluronic acid to hydrate and stimulate collagen production, delivering fast and visible results in terms of plumpness and radiance. Polynucleotides work through a regenerative mechanism, repairing and rebuilding skin at a cellular level over a longer period. In practice, polynucleotides tend to produce more gradual results that continue to improve over several months. Some clients benefit from one treatment, others from both — your consultation will help us determine which approach, or which combination, is right for you.

What Does Treatment Involve?

Polynucleotides are administered via a series of small injections into the treatment area. The number of injection points varies depending on the area being treated. Treatment typically takes between 20 and 40 minutes. A course of treatment usually involves two to three sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. Results build gradually over the weeks following each session, with the full effect typically visible two to three months after completing a course. Many clients then choose a maintenance session every six to twelve months. The treatment is well tolerated by most clients. There may be some mild redness or swelling immediately afterwards, which usually settles within 24 hours.