Polynucleotides

Polynucleotides Overview

Polynucleotides, also called PN or PDRN are an injectable, skin-boosting, regenerative treatment that has gained popularity in recent years. Although, they have been used in medicine since the 1980’s to treat joint issues.

Polynucleotides are made up of chains of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. When used in aesthetics, polynucleotides are typically derived from the sperm of salmon or trout, and are then purified and sterilised for medical use. They are then injected into the skin to provide instant hydration and long term bio-remodelling.

Polynucleotides have several skin-boosting benefits for the skin, including improving skin texture and elasticity and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. They do this by providing instant hydration whilst also promoting fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. They are also thought to have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, which can help to reduce redness, swelling, and other signs of skin damage.

How do polynucleotides work?

Like hyaluronic acid skin boosters, polynucleotides create dewy looking skin, adding a soft volume and hydration effect. In addition to this, polynucleotides work to boost fibroblast production, inducing tissue repair processes, reducing inflammatory processes, regulating melanogenesis and promoting hydration in the skin. Polynucleotides stimulate regeneration of the skin at the cellular level so it takes time to be seen visually in terms of improved texture, minimised pores and pigmentation.

Depending on the degree of ageing your skin has and your ability to create quality tissue when stimulated, your diet and lifestyle, your skin quality will improve gradually as the tissues regenerate following treatment.

Most notice a difference after 2-4 weeks, but your skin will continue to improve with optimum results expected about 3 months after the course of treatment has been completed.

You will likely need 6 monthly/annual maintenance treatments.

What can polynucleotides be used for?

Polynucleotides are exceptionally versatile. They can be used to treat both body and face, including necks, décolletage, the delicate eye area, back of hands, abdomen, thighs, knees, arms, stretch marks across the body.

Polynucleotides can also help with lumpy or sunken scars, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, melasma, rosacea, general signs of facial ageing, eyebrow and scalp hair loss. They can also be used to help address post-menopause vaginal concerns.

Polynucleotides have moisturising and antioxidant properties which create an optimal environment within your skin to promote the natural growth of fibroblasts, which produce collagen and elastin.

They can enhance hydration, tissue elasticity and tightness and help rejuvenate the skin.

How do I prepare for polynucleotides?

As with any other injectable treatment, unless prescribed, avoid NSAIDS, fish oils and alcohol prior to your treatment. Ensure you’ve had a drink and something to eat and remove any makeup.

What happens during a polynucleotide treatment?

It is important to understand that, whilst polynucleotides are not prescription only medicine, the anatomy of the face is complex, so it is advisable that you only allow medically qualified practitioners to carry out injectable treatments.

Your practitioner will remove any makeup from your face/area to be treated and use a sterile wipe/solution to prepare the area.

Your practitioner may apply topical anaesthetic and allow this to take effect for 20-30 minutes.

It is recommended that a course of treatments (usually 3 or more) is carried out 4-6 weeks apart for optimum results. Following this, maintenance treatments are advised.

Your practitioner will be able to advise you of your personal individualised treatment plan.

What should I do after my polynucleotide treatment?

Do:

  • Avoid the sun
  • Use a broad spectrum sunscreen daily, ideally SPF30+
  • Use collagen stimulating peptides
  • Keep hydrated

Don’t:

  • Use ‘active’ skin care products (retinols, AHAs, acids) until recommended by your practitioner
  • Use make up for 24-48 hours after treatment
  • Do strenuous exercise – sweating can enable bacteria to enter the channels created during the treatment
  • Take NSAIDs

What are the side effects and risks of polynucleotide treatments?

Side effects and complications include but are not limited to:

  • Pain or stinging whilst the injection is performed.
  • Injections into the lip area could trigger a recurrence of facial cold sores (herpes simplex infections) for patients with a history of prior cold sores.
  • Localised swelling, redness and or tenderness.
  • Bleeding at the sites of injection.
  • Bruising – may be severe in rare cases and may persist for several days.

Rare Side Effects

  • Persistent or prolonged pain, swelling, or inflammation.
  • Infection (can occur within days or as long as months).
  • Allergic reaction or delayed sensitivity reaction – not recommended for people with fish allergies.
  • Compression / Vascular Compromise – the blood supply to the skin may be interrupted by swelling or inadvertent injection into a vessel, causing pain and/or discolouration. This can lead to necrosis of the skin if not dealt with, skin damage and possible scarring. (Very rare).

Report any side effects to your practitioner as soon as you experience them. They will be best placed to provide you with aftercare and advice.