Alison Gilmour BSc (Hons) MRPharmS Pharmacist Independent PrescriberÂ
GPhC 2050969

POLYNUCLEOTIDES
The newest and most exciting products in regenerative aesthetic medicine
Skin rejuvenation and regeneration at a cellular level
What are polynucleotides
Polynucleotides are the chains forming the building blocks that make up our DNA. DNA controls many important bodily functions, including how the skin develops. Commercial polynucleotide products are made from DNA harvested from salmon and trout.
When these polynucleotides are injected into the skin, they help damaged DNA cells to repair and as a result, the cells function better.
For instance, polynucleotides stimulate fibroblast cells, which help form connective tissues like collagen and elastin – the essential proteins that provide the skin with shape, volume, and a youthful appearance.
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What are the benefits of this treatment?
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Reduced appearance of fine lines & wrinkles
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Improved skin texture & reduced appearance of scarring
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Reduced redness and inflammation​ in rosacea
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Stabilisation of areas of pigmentation
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Increased collagen and improved elasticity for tighter skin
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Improved overall skin quality​ and hydration
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Where can these be used?
These products can be used on many different areas of the body including the scalp for stimulating hair regrowth.
It is an especially effective treatment for improving dark circles and crepey skin in the undereye area and for rejuvenation of skin on the neck, decolletage and hands. On the body, common areas targeted are loose skin on the abdomen, above the knees, or inner arms.
Polynucleotide treatments are particularly beneficial for the mature age group.
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How is the treatment administered?
Polynucleotides are injected very superficially into your skin and this can be done using either very tiny needles leaving small 'blebs' on the surface of the skin. Alternatively, a blunt-ended tube, cannula, may be used to spread the product evenly. After treatment, the product is completely absorbed into your skin without leaving any lumps, bumps, or overfilling.
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Will it hurt and are there any side effects?
The treatment can be a little uncomfortable depending on there it is being used and on the injection technique. Numbing cream can be applied if desired.
As with all injectable treatments, the main side effects are bruising, bleeding and swelling. In some patients, swelling under the eyes may last for up to a week, so this should be taken into account if you have any important engagements coming up!
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How many sessions will I need?
To achieve optimum results, an initial course of treatment is administered over 3 or 4 initial appointments, with treatments 2-3 weeks apart.
Your individual protocol will depend on the product used, your skin condition and desired outcome.
When will I see results?
Typically, you will not notice any benefits for a few weeks. This is because the action of polynucleotides is at the cellular level, and this takes time. Although you may notice some improvement after 2-3 weeks, the full effect is only visible at around 3 months. This is the only downside of polynucleotides. You may have to put up with the downtime without seeing any benefits for weeks to months.
The result of treatment depends on a variety of factors. Firstly, the degree of your skin ageing prior to the treatment. Secondly, your skin’s ability to regenerate good quality tissue when stimulated. Thirdly, your lifestyle.
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How long will the results last?
The improvements in skin condition and quality usually last between six and nine months. A maintenance treatment is recommended around 4-6 months after the initial course to prolong results.
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There are no long-term risks to using polynucleotides regularly, in fact, as we continue to age, it may be something to consider on a long-term basis.