Should You Get Polynucleotide Treatment?

Ever since Jennifer Anniston let the world know about her bizarre “salmon sperm facial,” there has been much interest in what is known as the polynucleotide treatment. The term might sound a bit complicated, but nucleotides are simply the building blocks of your DNA.   

What makes polynucleotide treatments quite unique in the world of aesthetics is that they focus on “regeneration.” It may help the skin better itself by prompting certain cells within. In general, this treatment is done to help improve the quality of the skin and rejuvenate it.

What Is Polynucleotide Treatment?

Polynucleotide treatment consists of purified nucleotides – the molecule that makes up the DNA – that are obtained from the gonads of trout or salmon to stimulate the fibroblasts within the skin.

Fibroblasts are a type of cells that are involved in the making of elastin and collagen – a substance that provides strength, elasticity and structure to the skin. Additionally, these cells also play a part in tissue repair for the healing of wounds.

What polynucleotide treatment essentially does is that it “makes” the fibroblasts within the skin produce collagen and elastin, which can then help address different skin concerns. As noted by a study published in the Skin Research and Technology, polynucleotide injections are being used to improve:

• Thickness and elasticity of the skin
• Appearance of wrinkles
• Skin hydration
• Pigmentation
• Size of the pores

However, it’s also been said to help with other issues like hair thinning, scars, stretch marks, rosacea, fine lines, and poor texture. Additionally, the “Polynucleotides Highly Purified Technology™” can also reportedly be useful for priming the skin.

In that, it may allow for a “stronger and faster” response to a second treatment that you might have for revitalising your skin. So, it is basically said to help prepare the tissues in that regard for getting better results, as explained in a study published by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Who Is Polynucleotide Treatment For?

Polynucleotide treatment can help improve skin quality in a more natural way since it allows for the production of collagen and elastin. So, it can help with signs of ageing, however, you might not be able to achieve very dramatic results from it. 

It has been used on the face, especially in the area around the eyes. Ameela Eyes is one popular product with polynucleotides in it that stimulates deep tissues, improves the appearance of eye bags, wrinkles and dark circles in that area, as well as makes the skin look more youthful. It is what’s also used at Longevita’s medical aesthetics clinic in London by Dr Gizem Seymenoglu. 

There are also other polynucleotide-containing products in the market as well such as Nucleofill, which claims to help with scarring, stretch marks, aged skin and dehydration. There are also Rejuran, Plenhyage XL polynucleotides and Mastelli, among others. Other than the face, polynucleotide treatment may also be done on the neck and hands. 

It is said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, so it may help improve the health of the skin in that way, too. But it’s very important that you talk to a board-certified, experienced and qualified practitioner who can transparently discuss the positives and negatives of this treatment with you so you can achieve your desired results. 

Also, since this product can be derived from fish, if you’re following a certain diet or are allergic to fish, you might have to reconsider getting this treatment. You might also be advised against it if you’re breastfeeding or pregnant. For other contraindications, make sure to talk to your doctor. 

What Is The Procedure For Polynucleotide Treatment?

After you arrive at the clinic, your provider may begin by applying numbing cream on your face so you don’t feel pain during the treatment. Once it takes effect, they may either use an injection or a cannula to inject the polynucleotides into the skin.

You may be given some aftercare instructions, such as avoiding wearing glasses, makeup, prolonged sun exposure, strenuous activity, or touching your face. Make sure you follow the advice of your own doctor.

Is Polynucleotide Injection Painful?

You might feel discomfort while getting polynucleotide injections. However, for this reason, your provider may apply a numbing cream beforehand. If you are sensitive to pain, make sure to inform your doctor about it.

What Are The Side Effects Of Polynucleotide Injections?

Some of the side effects that you might experience after your polynucleotide injections are:

• Bumps dots (due to the injection)
• Bruising
• Swelling

Your doctor should inform you about what to expect and when any temporary side effects of the treatment should subside. Make sure to ask about any potential complications of this treatment as well. If at any point you feel you’re not healing well, you should get in touch with the medical team.

How Much Is Polynucleotide Treatment?

In a single session, polynucleotide treatment in one area might cost you around £400 in the UK. The price goes up with the number of areas under treatment and can be above a thousand pounds or so. It’s also important to note that, generally, multiple sessions of this treatment are recommended, so it can become a recurring expense if you want to maintain the results. 

Other than that, the prices can also vary depending on the experience of your practitioner and the location of their clinic. It’s important that you don’t just go for the lowest-priced treatment plan. Finding the right provider can help you make the most out of your treatment. 

Does Polynucleotide Treatment Work?

There is research to suggest that polynucleotide treatments can be effective in helping improve the health of the skin. According to a 2023 research published in Skin Research & Technology, some of the properties of polynucleotides agreed upon by physicians include:

• Healing of wounds and regeneration
• Skin barrier protection
• Hydration
• Anti-inflammation

Since it’s said to work on the fibroblasts to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, you might notice a difference in your appearance after this treatment.

How Many Polynucleotide Treatments Will You Need?

You might be recommended around 3 sessions of polynucleotide treatment, which can be spaced a few weeks to a month apart. Only your practitioner can best guide you on the number of treatments that can best meet your needs. 

How Long Do Polynucleotides Take To Work?

It can be a few weeks before you start noticing a result from your treatment. You might, however, notice a difference in your target area after just one treatment. But with subsequent treatments, you might notice an even greater improvement. Keep in mind that collagen production can take some time, so you might not see the results immediately. 

Is Polynucleotide Treatment Worth It?

Polynucleotide treatment can be worth it in addressing different skin concerns. Especially since it may stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, it may help with different signs of ageing. But other than that, it’s also said to improve the hydration of the skin, pigmentation, texture, and scars, appearance of eye bags and dark circles, among other things. But for the best results, you should do your research to find a well-qualified provider. 

Conclusion

Polynucleotide treatments have gained quite a buzz in the aesthetics industry, and it is because of the number of benefits that this treatment purportedly has. It’s made from a natural product, and it also works in a more natural way in that it makes the body work on improving the skin. If you are considering getting any treatment, make sure you find someone qualified and check out their before and after results. 

Reviewed and approved by Prof. Dr. Fuat Yuksel

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