Written By Dr Sabika Karim 17 October 2025
As a doctor, I’m often asked whether Sculptra or Polynucleotides offer better results for skin rejuvenation. Both have become increasingly popular as patients look for subtle, regenerative treatments that enhance skin health rather than change facial features.
The truth is that each treatment supports the skin in a different way. Sculptra rebuilds the deeper collagen structure for firmness and lift, while Polynucleotides focus on cellular repair, hydration, and radiance. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right treatment for your goals.
At Skin Medical, our focus is always on long-term skin health — restoring confidence through science-backed treatments, tailored by medical expertise.
Sculptra is an injectable biostimulator made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a compound that activates the body’s own fibroblast cells to produce new collagen. Unlike dermal fillers, which simply replace lost volume, Sculptra encourages the skin to rebuild its own structural proteins gradually.
When injected into the deep dermis, PLLA microparticles trigger a controlled healing response. Fibroblasts produce new collagen and strengthen the extracellular matrix, the internal scaffolding that keeps the skin firm and lifted.
Our patients usually have two to three sessions spaced several weeks apart. The results appear slowly over three to six months and can last up to two years, offering one of the most durable outcomes of any injectable treatment.
At Skin Medical Northwood, Dr Sabika often recommends Sculptra for patients noticing:
“Sculptra helps rebuild your skin’s structure from within, creating lift and support without altering your expression,” says Dr Sabika. “It’s about regeneration, not replacement.”
Many patients in their 40s and 50s choose Sculptra as part of a wider rejuvenation plan, particularly when they want to correct sagging gradually, without downtime or the “overfilled” look.
Polynucleotides are natural DNA fragments derived from salmon or trout that help repair and regenerate the skin on a cellular level. When injected, they stimulate fibroblast activity, improve oxygenation, and enhance the quality of the extracellular matrix.
This leads to visibly smoother, brighter, and more hydrated skin, without adding volume. At Skin Medical, Dr Sabika uses leading formulations such as Plinest, Nucleofill, and PhilArt, chosen for their proven clinical efficacy and safety.
Polynucleotides are particularly beneficial for:
“Polynucleotides are remarkable for revitalising the skin’s microenvironment,” notes Dr Sabika. “They encourage self-repair, strengthen tissue and restore natural radiance.”
At Skin Medical, every treatment begins with a detailed consultation and skin analysis. The decision often depends on individual factors such as age, skin density, and goals.
By Age Group
By Skin Goal
“We look at the skin as a living organ that changes over time,” says Dr Sabika. “By addressing both deep collagen and surface repair, patients achieve healthy, glowing skin that ages beautifully.”
| Feature | Sculptra | Polynucleotides (Plinest, Nucleofill, PhilArt) |
|---|---|---|
Primary Action | Collagen biostimulation | Cellular repair & hydration |
Best For | Lift, firmness, volume loss | Texture, tone, fine lines |
Results Timeline | Gradual (3–6 months) | Progressive (2–4 weeks) |
Longevity | Up to 24 months | Around 6–12 months |
Treatment Depth | Deep dermis / subdermis | Superficial to mid-dermis |
Downtime | Minimal | Minimal |
Ideal Patient Profile | Mature skin needing structure | Early ageing or sensitive skin |
Pricing | £350 | From £300 |
In modern aesthetics, the best results rarely come from a single treatment. At Skin Medical, Dr Sabika often combines regenerative injectables to address multiple layers of the skin.
A typical protocol might involve:
This layered approach allows for gradual transformation — maintaining the patient’s natural facial identity while improving firmness, smoothness, and luminosity over time.
Maintenance usually involves a Sculptra top-up every 18–24 months and a Polynucleotide course once or twice a year, depending on skin condition and lifestyle. Regular in-clinic assessments ensure the plan evolves with the patient’s skin.
So, which treatment should you choose, Sculptra or Polynucleotides?
Ultimately, the answer lies in your individual skin goals. Sculptra rebuilds deep collagen and restores structure, while Polynucleotides repair and revitalise the surface for smoother, more hydrated skin. Both can work in harmony as part of a long-term, regenerative programme. At Skin Medical, our Sculptra treatment costs start from £350, and our Polynucleotides start from £250. All treatments are subject to a thorough consultation with our specialist team.
To explore which approach best suits you, book a consultation at Skin Medical Northwood or call our team on +44 1923 590057.
My journey at Skin medical has been fantastic! My skin feels revitalised and has never been this clear. The products have improved my skin tremendously and I’m very happy with the results. Special thanks to Malini, Dr Sabika & Lorraine.
Treatments like Sculptra and Polynucleotides are different from other skin booster treatments, like Profhilo “Free HA” skin boosters. Learn how much collagen stimulator injections cost, and how long collagen injections last.
Yes. They target different skin layers and complement each other beautifully. Dr Sabika often recommends a staged plan. Sculptra first to rebuild deeper support, followed by Polynucleotides to refine texture and hydration.
The choice depends on your skin type, goals, and age. Dr Sabika will assess all of these during your consultation and design a personalised plan to achieve natural, lasting results.
Polynucleotides deliver visible improvements within two to four weeks, while Sculptra’s collagen-building effects develop gradually over several months.
Polynucleotides are particularly gentle and well-suited for sensitive or post-procedure skin. Sculptra is ideal for structurally weakened skin but may not suit those with active inflammation.
Yes. Both are designed to work gradually, improving skin from within for subtle and natural-looking results.
Sculptra rebuilds collagen for firmer, lifted skin, while Polynucleotides rejuvenate and hydrate for a smoother, healthier glow.
At Skin Medical, Sculptra treatments typically start from £350 while Polynucleotides start from £250. The final cost depends on the number of sessions and areas being treated.
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