The Rise of Polynucleotide Treatments in Aesthetic Medicine
Aesthetic medicine, innovation is the driving force behind better results, reduced downtime, and more natural rejuvenation. One of the most promising developments in recent years is the increasing popularity of polynucleotide (PN) treatments.
Once primarily used in regenerative medicine and ophthalmology, polynucleotides have made a powerful entrance into the cosmetic world, offering a new way to repair, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin at the cellular level.
This article explores what polynucleotides are, how they work, and why they’re quickly becoming a go-to treatment in modern aesthetics.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotide Treatment are biopolymers made up of long chains of nucleotides, the basic building blocks of DNA and RNA. In aesthetic medicine, they are derived from purified and filtered DNA—often sourced from salmon or trout—and used as injectables to promote skin regeneration and tissue repair.
Unlike traditional dermal fillers, which primarily restore volume or structure, polynucleotides focus on improving skin quality from the inside out. They act as powerful biostimulators that enhance the skin’s natural ability to repair, renew, and maintain healthy function.
How Do Polynucleotide Treatments Work?
Polynucleotides work on multiple levels:
1. Cell Regeneration and Repair
They stimulate fibroblast activity, which increases the production of collagen and elastin—proteins critical for firm, elastic skin.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Action
They exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, making them ideal for sensitive or compromised skin (e.g., post-laser or acne-prone).
3. Improved Hydration
Polynucleotides attract water molecules, providing a deep, long-lasting hydration that improves skin texture and plumpness without adding volume like hyaluronic acid fillers.
4. DNA Repair Support
Because they are derived from DNA components, they support cellular repair mechanisms, particularly beneficial for aging or damaged skin.
Why Are Polynucleotide Treatments Gaining Popularity?
Several key factors are driving the rise of polynucleotide treatments in aesthetic medicine:
✅ Natural-Looking Results
Unlike volumizing fillers, PNs don’t alter facial contours. Instead, they subtly improve skin tone, texture, and elasticity, creating a natural, rejuvenated look over time.
✅ Minimal Downtime
Most PN treatments involve microinjections or mesotherapy-style techniques with minimal swelling or bruising, making them suitable for busy lifestyles.
✅ Versatility
They can be used on a variety of areas, including:
Face (especially under-eye area and cheeks)
Neck and décolletage
Hands
Scalp (to support hair regrowth)
✅ Safe and Biocompatible
PNs are well-tolerated, with a low risk of allergic reaction or adverse effects. The sourcing and purification processes are stringent, making them safe for a broad range of skin types and ages.
Treatment Areas and Benefits
Area | Benefits |
Under-Eye Area | Reduces dark circles, fine lines, and hollow appearance |
Full Face | Improves texture, elasticity, and hydration |
Neck/Décolletage | Tightens crepey skin and reduces fine lines. |
Scalp | Stimulates hair follicles and improves scalp health |
Acne-Scarred Skin | Enhances skin regeneration and healing |
Polynucleotides vs. Traditional Skin Boosters
Feature | Polynucleotides | Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters |
Function | Stimulate regeneration, repair, and hydrate | Primarily hydrates and adds plumpness |
Duration of Results | Longer (up to 6–12 months) | Moderate (typically 4–6 months) |
Onset of Results | Gradual improvement over weeks | More immediate hydration boost |
Ideal Use | Aging, dull, or damaged skin | Dehydrated or mildly aged skin |
In many treatment protocols, PNs and hyaluronic acid boosters are used together to maximize results, combining immediate plumping with long-term skin regeneration.
Popular Polynucleotide Brands in Aesthetic Medicine
Several polynucleotide-based injectables have entered the market with strong clinical backing:
Plinest® and Newest® – Widely used in Europe and Asia
Rejuran® (PN/PDRN) – Popular in South Korea, especially for “baby skin” rejuvenation
Nucleofill® – A newer generation PN product focused on lifting, hydration, and antioxidant action
Each product may have a slightly different molecular weight, concentration, or formulation, but all aim to stimulate skin regeneration and repair.
Who Is a Good Candidate for PN Treatments?
Polynucleotide treatments are ideal for individuals who:
Want to improve skin quality without changing facial structure
Are you dealing with fine lines, Chin Filler, dullness, or early signs of aging
Need post-treatment skin recovery (e.g., after laser or microneedling)
Have sensitive or reactive skin
Are you looking for a preventative anti-aging solution
They’re particularly appealing to people seeking natural, gradual enhancement rather than immediate, dramatic changes.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
The Procedure:
Treatment typically involves a series of tiny injections in the desired area.
Topical numbing cream is often used to reduce discomfort.
The session lasts about 20–30 minutes.
Recovery:
Mild redness, swelling, or small bumps may appear for 1–2 days.
Makeup can usually be applied after 24 hours.
Most people return to normal activities immediately or the next day.
Results Timeline:
Visible improvement typically appears over 2–4 weeks.
Optimal results are seen after a course of 3–4 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart.
Maintenance treatments every 6–12 months are recommended.
Conclusion: A Regenerative Approach to Beauty
Polynucleotide treatments represent a paradigm shift in aesthetic medicine—from volume-focused solutions to cellular-level regeneration. Rather than filling lines or lifting tissue, these treatments restore skin health, improve structure, and support long-term anti-aging benefits with minimal intervention.
Whether used alone or in combination with other therapies, polynucleotides are rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern skin rejuvenation protocols.