Polynucleotides

Fillers add physical volume. Polynucleotides are "skin healers" that improve the actual health and structure of your skin cells.

Polynucleotides used in aesthetic medicine are purified DNA fragments — typically derived from trout or salmon sperm — processed to remove proteins and antigens, leaving only the DNA chains that act as signalling molecules in the skin. The most widely used brand families in UK clinics (such as Plinest, Newest, Nucleofill) follow this base preparation. Despite the unusual origin, the final product is purified to a pharmaceutical-grade standard and does not contain whole cells or genetic material capable of reproducing.

Yes — polynucleotide products used in UK aesthetic clinics are CE-marked medical devices that have undergone safety and quality testing. They have been used in regenerative medicine for several decades (originally for wound healing applications) before entering aesthetic practice. As with any injectable, contraindications apply — these are screened during your consultation.

Initial changes — improved hydration and a brighter look — are often visible within 2 weeks of the first session. Substantial improvement in skin quality, fine lines, and elasticity builds across a course of 3–4 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart, with peak results visible around 3 months after the final session. Results then last 6–9 months, with most patients booking a maintenance session every 6 months.

Yes — polynucleotides are one of the most commonly chosen regenerative treatments for the under-eye area, often preferred over dermal filler for patients with thin, crepey under-eye skin or where filler risks looking puffy or bruised. The polynucleotide formulation supports skin quality and hydration without adding volume. Specific brand variants (such as Newest or Plinest Eye) are formulated for this area. The under-eye is a technically demanding zone — assessment of your specific anatomy will determine if polynucleotides are appropriate for you.

The standard course is 3–4 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart, depending on the brand used and your concern. Each session takes approximately 30 minutes including numbing. Maintenance is then typically once every 6 months. Your practitioner will tailor the protocol — including which polynucleotide brand variant is best for your area (face, body, eye, neck, scalp) and your goals.

Yes — they combine particularly well with microneedling, Morpheus8, MOXI, and HydraFacial as a way to support skin recovery and amplify regenerative effects. They can also be alternated with dermal filler or anti-wrinkle injections across the same overall plan (typically separated by 2 weeks between modalities). Your practitioner will sequence treatments during consultation to avoid overloading the skin.

All three are regenerative treatments but they work differently. PRP uses growth factors from your own blood — requires a blood draw, zero allergy risk because it is yours, results vary with platelet quality. Exosomes are factory-prepared signalling vesicles applied topically after a micro-channelling procedure — consistent quality, no blood draw, applied not injected. Polynucleotides are purified DNA fragments injected directly into the skin — predictable signalling, well-documented in clinical literature, particularly strong for hydration and delicate areas. Your practitioner will recommend the right one based on your concern, comfort with a blood draw, and which areas need treating.

Common, expected effects are mild swelling, redness, and small "bumps" or wheals at injection sites — all resolving within 24–48 hours. Bruising is uncommon but possible. Because polynucleotides are highly purified to remove proteins, allergic reactions are rare. You should contact the clinic urgently for unusual swelling, signs of infection (worsening warmth, redness, pus), or any symptoms suggestive of allergy.