What Is Polynucleotide Treatment? A Complete Guide to Skin Rejuvenation

Polynucleotide treatment is a non-surgical, bio-revitalisation therapy that injects purified DNA fragments (polynucleotides) into the skin to stimulate natural repair mechanisms, boosting collagen and elastin production, improving hydration, reducing inflammation, and restoring skin quality over weeks to months.

In modern aesthetic medicine, there has been a steady shift from surface-level cosmetics toward treatments that work at the cellular level. Polynucleotide therapies are part of this shift: they don’t merely hide lines or add volume they aim to improve the skin’s biology. Hence, the skin itself becomes healthier, firmer, and more resilient. Initially used in regenerative medicine and wound healing, polynucleotides have been refined into aesthetic formulations that support collagen remodelling, tissue repair, and long-term skin health without the volumising effects associated with traditional dermal fillers.

What Polynucleotide Treatment Is

Polynucleotides are long chains of nucleotides, essentially fragments of DNA, that have been highly purified and processed for medical and cosmetic use. In the context of skin rejuvenation, polynucleotide products are formulated to provide a biological stimulus to the skin, promoting its natural healing process. They are not genetic therapies; they do not alter a person’s DNA. Instead, they act extracellularly to influence cellular behaviour.

Key characteristics:

• Biological stimulant: Polynucleotides create a microenvironment that supports fibroblast activity — the cells that produce collagen and elastin.
• Hydration and matrix support: They enhance water retention and improve the quality of the extracellular matrix, contributing to skin plumpness and elasticity.
• Tissue repair: Polynucleotides help accelerate healing and reduce inflammation at the tissue level.
• Non-volumising: Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, polynucleotides don’t add volume; they improve tissue quality and resilience.

Because of these properties, polynucleotide treatments are typically categorised as bio-revitalisation or biostimulatory therapies — designed to restore skin quality rather than reshape facial contours.

How Polynucleotide Treatment Works

The biological mechanism (high level)

When polynucleotides are delivered into the dermis (the deeper skin layer), they interact with fibroblasts and other skin cells. This interaction triggers several biological processes:

1. Fibroblast stimulation: Polynucleotides enhance fibroblast proliferation and activity, thereby increasing the synthesis of collagen (mainly types I and III) and elastin.
2. Angiogenesis and microcirculation: Improved microvascular function and blood flow support healthier skin metabolism.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: Polynucleotides can help moderate local inflammation, which aids in healing and reduces redness and irritation.
4. Extracellular matrix improvement: By providing nucleic acid fragments, they help remodel and strengthen the extracellular matrix (ECM), thereby improving the hydration and mechanical properties of the skin.

How the product is administered

• Injection techniques: Polynucleotides are typically administered via a series of microinjections across the treatment area using fine needles (mesotherapy technique) or through microcannulas in some protocols.
• Adjunct methods: Some practitioners combine polynucleotides with microneedling (to promote better product distribution and additional stimulation) or with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for combined bio-stimulation.
• Treatment areas: Face, neck, décolletage, hands, and localised concerns such as under-eye hollows (for skin quality, not volume) or acne-scarred areas.

Treatment physiology afterwards

The injected polynucleotides begin to act immediately, influencing cellular signalling and immune modulation. Over days and weeks, the skin undergoes repair and remodelling as collagen and elastin synthesis increase and tissue hydration improves. Results build progressively rather than appearing instantly.

Number of Treatments Needed

Typical protocol:

• Initial course: 3 to 4 sessions, usually spaced 2–4 weeks apart. This schedule allows cumulative stimulation of collagen synthesis and tissue remodelling.
• Maintenance: One maintenance session every 6–12 months is common to sustain results, although the frequency depends on factors such as age, skin condition, and lifestyle.
• Personalisation: Providers tailor the number of sessions to the individual — older or more photo-damaged skin may require additional sessions or combined therapies.

How Long Does Polynucleotide Treatment Take to Work

• Immediate (24–72 hours): Some patients notice improved hydration and a subtle glow within days due to enhanced water retention and microcirculatory effects.
• Short term (2–6 weeks): Collagen remodelling begins, and fine lines may soften; texture improvements become more noticeable.
• Medium term (8–12 weeks): More pronounced improvements in firmness and elasticity as new extracellular matrix scaffolding forms.
• Long-term (3–6 months): Cumulative effects peak after several months, particularly after a complete course of treatments, with continued maintenance prolonging the benefits.

The progressive nature of the results is an advantage for those seeking natural-looking, long-lasting skin improvements.

How Long Polynucleotide Results Last

• Typical duration: 6–12 months for many patients, depending on skin biology, environmental exposures (sun, smoking), skincare habits, and overall health.
• Factors influencing longevity: age, UV exposure history, baseline collagen levels, metabolic health, and whether maintenance sessions are performed.
• Maintaining results: Regular skincare (including retinoids where appropriate, vitamin C, and sunscreen), healthy lifestyle choices, and periodic maintenance treatments will help prolong the benefits.

What Polynucleotide Treatment Can Treat

Polynucleotide therapy is versatile and can address multiple skin concerns:

• Fine lines and early wrinkles: By increasing collagen and elastin, it reduces the appearance of shallow lines.
• Loss of elasticity and firmness: It supports skin rebound and resilience.
• Dull, dehydrated skin: Improves hydration and the skin’s ability to retain moisture, resulting in a dewy appearance.
• Texture irregularities and enlarged pores: remodels the ECM for smoother surface texture.
• Acne scarring and micro-textural defects: Encourages remodelling in scarred tissues, often used in conjunction with microneedling or PRP.
• Under-eye skin quality: Can improve the thin, crepey skin under the eyes (careful technique required).
• Sun damage and pigmentation irregularities: By promoting healthier dermal architecture and microcirculation, it can help with uneven tone when combined with other modalities.

Polynucleotide therapy should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used to conjunction with other procedures (such as lasers, chemical peels, and fillers), depending on the patient’s goals.

The Benefits of Getting Polynucleotide Treatment

Below are the primary benefits patients commonly seek:

Natural collagen & elastin boost

Polynucleotides promote the skin’s own regenerative processes rather than introducing foreign volumising material. This can lead to improved firmness and structural integrity over time.

Deep hydration & improved texture

They help the dermis retain moisture and improve the extracellular matrix, leading to smoother, plumper skin.

Anti-inflammatory & healing properties

Polynucleotides can help reduce local inflammation and support tissue healing, making them helpful in treating acne-related skin damage and after resurfacing procedures.

Safe and non-volumising

Because they do not add volume, polynucleotides are suitable for patients who want improvement in skin quality without altering facial contours.

Long-lasting radiance

When used in a comprehensive course and administered appropriately, improvements can persist for many months and often continue to improve gradually after treatment, unlike the instant but short-lived results from some topical therapies.

How Polynucleotides Differ from Dermal Fillers

Understanding how polynucleotides differ from fillers is critical for choosing the proper treatment:

• Purpose:
  • Fillers (e.g., hyaluronic acid) are designed to replace lost volume and sculpt facial features.
  • Polynucleotides focus on biological repair and enhancing skin quality.
• Onset and visibility of results:
  • Fillers provide immediate visible changes (plumping, contouring).
  • Polynucleotides produce gradual, natural improvements in texture, elasticity, and radiance.
• Longevity & maintenance:
  • Fillers can last from several months to several years, depending on the product and the specific area being treated.
  • Polynucleotide effects last months and are optimised through maintenance treatments and skincare.
• Use cases:
  • Use fillers for nasolabial folds, cheek augmentation, lip enhancement, and volume deficits.
  • Use polynucleotides for generalised skin rejuvenation, improving quality, and treating thin, crepey skin.

Because their mechanisms differ, combining both approaches (at different treatment times) can give structural and biological improvements for a comprehensive rejuvenation programme.

Is Polynucleotide Treatment Safe?

Polynucleotide therapy has an excellent safety profile when performed correctly. Nevertheless, like any injectable procedure, it carries potential side effects and requires professional administration.

Safety points

• Product sourcing: Use CE-marked or otherwise regulated products from reputable manufacturers. Purity and sterility are paramount.
• Trained providers: Only trained medical professionals or qualified practitioners experienced in injectable therapies should perform polynucleotide injections. Proper technique reduces risks.
• Side effects: Short-term reactions can include mild redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, or minor needle marks. These typically resolve within hours to a few days.
• Allergic reactions: Extremely rare due to the highly purified nature of the products; however, any history of allergies should be discussed during consultation.
• Infection risk: Low if aseptic technique is used; constantly monitor for signs of infection (increased redness, pain, swelling, or discharge) and seek medical advice promptly.
• Special populations: Not generally recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or in the presence of active infection or inflammatory skin disease in the treatment area.

Always conduct a thorough consultation and review of your medical history before proceeding with treatment.

Before and After — What Type of Results Can Be Achieved

Before treatment — realistic expectations

Patients should understand that polynucleotide therapy delivers gradual, natural-looking improvements. It is not a shortcut for immediate, dramatic change. Identify specific goals (such as texture, fine lines, or hydration) and be realistic about the outcomes.

After treatment — typical outcomes

• Immediate: Improved skin hydration and subtle brightness.
• After 2–4 weeks: Reduction in fine lines, improved texture, and smoother surface.
• After 2–3 months: Further strengthening of tone and elasticity; cumulative collagen deposition leads to firmer skin.
• Photographic evidence & case studies: Before/after photos from courses of treatment typically show reduced crepiness, refined pore size, and overall more youthful skin quality.

Results are highly individual, but many patients report satisfaction with the natural appearance and long-lasting improvements when adhering to recommended protocols.

Treatment Experience — What Happens During a Session

A typical polynucleotide session follows these steps:

1. Consultation: Assessment of skin condition, goals, medical history, and discussion of treatment plan and risks.
2. Preparation: Cleaning the area; a topical anaesthetic may be applied to reduce discomfort.
3. Administration: Multiple microinjections spaced evenly across the treatment area. Some practitioners use mesotherapy guns for speed, while others prefer manual injections for precision.
4. Post-procedure care: Apply cooling and soothing measures, and use a hydrating serum or mask to help your skin recover. Brief instructions about aftercare are provided.
5. Duration: Most sessions last 30–45 minutes, depending on area size and protocol.

Discomfort is usually mild; many patients tolerate the procedure well with a topical anaesthetic. The recovery is quick, with most people resuming normal activities shortly after.

Pre- and Post-Treatment Care

Before treatment

• Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, high-dose fish oil, vitamin E) for a few days if medically appropriate — check with your provider or GP.
• Avoid heavy alcohol consumption 24–48 hours prior.
• Avoid retinoids or aggressive exfoliants for a few days before treatment to minimise the risk of irritation.
• Arrive with clean skin — no makeup.

After treatment

• Avoid heavy exercise, saunas, and hot showers for 24–48 hours to minimise swelling and reduce the risk of irritation.
• Avoid using aggressive skincare products (such as strong acids and retinoids) for several days. Gentle cleansers and moisturisers are recommended.
• Use daily broad-spectrum sunscreen — UV protection helps preserve the benefits of your treatment.
• Avoid other facial treatments (deep chemical peels, aggressive lasers) for at least one week or as advised.

Good aftercare helps reduce downtime and improves outcomes.

Combination Treatments with Polynucleotides

Polynucleotides are versatile in combination protocols:

• Microneedling + Polynucleotides: Microneedling can increase product penetration and amplify collagen stimulation.
• PRP + Polynucleotides: Combines growth factors (PRP) with extracellular matrix support (polynucleotides) for enhanced repair.
• Chemical peels or lasers, combined with polynucleotides, can enhance surface rejuvenation, followed by polynucleotide therapy, to improve both texture and dermal quality. However, the sequencing and timing of these treatments must be carefully chosen to avoid excessive inflammation.

An experienced practitioner should plan combination therapy to strike a balance between efficacy and safety.

Who Can Benefit from Polynucleotide Treatments

Polynucleotide therapy is suitable for a wide range of adults seeking improved skin quality:

• Those with early signs of ageing want to improve skin tone and elasticity.
• Individuals with dehydrated or dull skin seeking long-term improvement.
• People with mild acne scarring who prefer non-ablative approaches.
• Clients seeking under-eye skin improvement can benefit from this treatment when administered carefully.
• Anyone seeking non-surgical rejuvenation without volume alteration.

Contraindications include active skin infections at the site, certain autoimmune conditions (discuss with a medical provider), pregnancy, and breastfeeding. A complete medical review determines candidacy.

The Future of Polynucleotide-Based Skin Therapies

Research and clinical interest continue to expand. Current directions include:

• Combination formulations: Polynucleotides combined with hyaluronic acid or peptides to provide both hydration and biostimulation.
• Scalp and hair uses: Research into polynucleotides for hair density and scalp rejuvenation is growing.
• Scar and wound management: Broader applications in tissue repair beyond aesthetic uses.
• Optimised delivery systems: Techniques that improve localisation and prolong action, such as slow-release matrices or micro-technology.

The trend is clear: regenerative, biology-driven dermatology will likely play an increasing role in aesthetic medicine.

Conclusion

Polynucleotide treatment represents a new generation of skin rejuvenation focused on improving the skin’s biological health rather than simply disguising surface imperfections. By stimulating fibroblasts, enhancing collagen and elastin production, improving hydration, and moderating inflammation, polynucleotides can produce gradual, natural-looking improvements in texture, tone, and firmness. Typical treatment plans involve multiple sessions, followed by maintenance visits to sustain the results. Outcomes typically last for several months when supported by good skincare and healthy lifestyle habits.

Safety is strong when treatments are delivered by trained professionals using high-quality products, but a proper consultation and adherence to pre- and post-care instructions are essential. For those seeking non-volumising, long-term rejuvenation, polynucleotide therapy is a compelling option that aligns with the broader shift toward regenerative, evidence-based skincare.

If you’re considering polynucleotide treatment, discuss your goals and medical history with a qualified practitioner who can design a personalised plan — combining polynucleotides with other modalities when appropriate to achieve balanced, natural, and long-lasting skin improvement.