Are polynucleotide injections the key to long-lasting skin rejuvenation?

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Are polynucleotide injections the key to long-lasting skin rejuvenation?

By Dr Sabika Karim 30th November 2024

I love polynucleotides, they have truly earned their place in the aesthetic treatment toolkit, however there has been a lot of talk and press around their skin improvement benefits. Whilst we agree, the immediate results are excellent are Polynucleotides the best choose of treatment when looking at long-lasting skin improvement? Read on to hear my thoughts. 

Polynucleotides injectable treatments, also known as the ‘salmon sperm facial’, are an exciting new option for patients looking for skin rejuvenation. Polynucleotides treatments are designed to rejuvenate and repair the skin from within. Derived from natural DNA fragments (What the ‘Salmon Sperm’ headlines are referring too), these injections work to hydrate the skin, improve elasticity, and stimulate cell regeneration.

The treatment has become popular option compared to other skin boosters but especially within one area of concern – the under eye area. Due to the consistency of the product, Dr Sabika can apply relatively small amounts of polynucleotide gel to rehydrate, and lift the appearance of the skin reducing the appearance of dark circles or hollow under eyes.

Polynucleotides offer impressive hydration and skin-quality improvements but it is also important to note that they have been proven to improve the skin through repair and maintenance, targeting free radicals and generally improving the quality of the skin. Whilst we’ve seen these results in clinic at Skin Medical. It is important to consider the longer term effects, and what you as the patient are looking for when it comes to skin rejuvenation. For those seeking deeper, longer-term improvements in volume and collagen production, biostimulating fillers  may offer a more comprehensive solution. Let’s dive into the various options.

What are Polynucleotides (Other than being the hottest words in aesthetics)?

Polynucleotides are little chemical sequences contained in a gel which come from purified DNA fragments, often sourced from wild salmon, to repair, protect, hydrate, and revitalise the skin. The polynucleotide gel works harmoniously with your body to stimulate skin cell regeneration which boost collagen production and even act as antioxidants. This leads to improved overall skin elasticity and texture.

So how do they work? I hear you ask. The magic lies in their ability to enhance the skin’s natural repair process. Once injected with a tiny needle, polynucleotides promote cell turnover and collagen synthesis, two essential components of youthful skin. This leads to improved hydration, firmer skin, and a more even complexion. Unlike traditional fillers, which physically add volume to the skin, polynucleotides are free to migrate and hydrate the skin from within. The results are subtle yet noticeable, making them an excellent option for those looking for a refreshed, natural appearance.

The “Salmon Sperm Facial” Myth

Honestly, this is just a headline created to generate buzz around the treatment category. The quirky nickname stems from the use of salmon-derived DNA in polynucleotide treatments. Wild Salmon DNA is prized for its biocompatibility and regenerative properties. While it might sound unusual, it’s a safe and scientifically proven approach that has been gaining popularity in aesthetic clinics worldwide. No salmon was harmed in the making of these products either, they are a bi-product of the food industry.

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Are Polynucleotides the answer for great skin – long term?

While polynucleotides are an incredible option for improving skin texture, tone, and hydration with limited downtime and an immediate effects. They might not be the best choice if you’re looking for more long lasting skin improvement and collagen stimulation.

If you are really looking to wind back the clock, replace lost volume and generate great skin quality you should consider bio-stimulating or collagen stimulation treatments. Three options we love at Skin Medical are Ellansé, Lanluma and Juliane all three have their own unique benefits. Ellanse gives you an immediate lift and volumisation, whilst also generating type-1 collagen (the best kind) over a period of 3-6 months. The overall results can last more then 18 months and this come with a great improvement in skin quality. Lanluma can be used for the face and body, and provides a natural collagen stimulation over 3 months using PLLA which you may of heard of before (Sculptra).  Julaine stimulates collagen production, delivering gradual, natural-looking results over time. Julaine effectively targets areas like the face, neck, arms, and décolleté to promote long-term improvements in skin appearance and elasticity.

Before
After

Polynucleotides vs Profhilo?

It is important to remember everyone has their individual treatment needs/wants and you have lots of options! Whilst Polynucleotides offer brilliant immediate results for sort after concerns like in the under eye area. The results have been compared to other skin booster treatments, especially Profhilo. Now whilst the effects can be similar in terms of skin quality improvement, hydration, they work in areas where Profhilo wouldn’t be effective, such as the lips and in that tricky dark circle / under eye area.

There are also other alternatives, collagen stimulating treatments as discussed, but also; traditional HA fillers, PRF, Microneedling with Secret RF (especially if you have some acne scarring or depression of the skin). There are also more non-invasive treatment options such as chemical peels and other laser treatments which can achieve that glowing, healthy skin.

The buzz around polynucleotide injections is well-deserved, particularly for addressing delicate under-eye concerns where they excel at rejuvenating and restoring skin with minimal downtime. However, it’s important to note that no single treatment is the perfect solution for every area. For example, skin boosters like Profhilo are great for overall skin hydration and quality improvement across the mid and lower face, while collagen stimulators like Julaine or Ellansé offer longer-term benefits by stimulating deeper collagen production for structural support, volume restoration with skin quality improvements.

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Rather than focusing on which treatment is “better” overall, the real key lies in choosing the right treatment for the right area.

Often this means combining different options to achieve optimal, natural-looking results. A tailored approach is essential, and that starts with a consultation to assess your unique concerns and determine the best combination of treatments for you. If you are looking to learn more about Polynucleotides, or the other treatments discussed in this and other latest articles on Lanluma and Ellanse, contact the team at Skin Medical to discuss your next steps for a consultation.

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I have been to see Dr Sabika at her clinic for many years and I’ve always felt very comfortable. All aspects of treatment are explained thoroughly, and i feel reassured by this. Dr Sabika has an impressive wealth of knowledge and experience. The results are amazing following every treatment and I’ve gained so much confidence since. In addition the clinic staff go the extra mile, they are so friendly making you feel relaxed and nothing is too much trouble. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Skin Medical for any aesthetic treatment.
Bonnie Hayford
Bonnie Hayford05/10/2024
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I discovered Dr Sabika and her team almost two years ago Everyone was so welcoming and nice. I was very nervous about having any treatment at all , but Dr Sabika soon reassured me and made me feel very comfortable and relaxed. Every treatment is well explained too. I would highly recommend her to anyone.
Jane Spooner
Jane Spooner01/11/2024
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Dr Sabika and Dr Saif and the helpful staff at Skin Medical are amazing. They give genuine advice on improving the skin and ultimately impacting the way you feel in a positive way. I travel from Bahrain to London every year and visiting Dr Saif is always on my list of things to do. Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Anisha Jaffer Khan
Anisha Jaffer Khan01/11/2024
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Where to find a Polynucleotide treatment near me. Discover Skin Medical

We have patients come from far and wide for our Polynucleotide treatments. We are easy to reach from London and the surrounding areas; Middlesex, Herefordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

Skin Medical Northwood Clinic, London
William Old Centre Ducks Hill Road Northwood Middlesex HA6 2NP
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