Polynucleotide Therapy: PDRN and Skin Regeneration

Last updated: 5 August 2026

What are polynucleotides?

Polynucleotide (PN) therapy represents one of the most exciting developments in regenerative aesthetics. Polynucleotides are long chains of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA, typically derived from salmon or trout DNA (PDRN: polydeoxyribonucleotide). When injected into the skin, they stimulate fibroblast activity, promote tissue repair, and enhance skin quality at a cellular level. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers which primarily add volume and hydration, polynucleotides work by triggering the skins own regenerative processes.

We have incorporated polynucleotide therapy into our skin rejuvenation programmes following the growing body of clinical evidence supporting its efficacy and safety.

The science behind polynucleotide therapy

Polynucleotides exert their effects through several biological mechanisms:

• Fibroblast stimulationPNs activate fibroblasts through the A2A purinergic receptor pathway, increasing collagen and elastin production
• Anti-inflammatory actionthey reduce levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and promote anti-inflammatory mediators
• Antioxidant effectsPNs scavenge free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress damage
• Tissue hydrationpolynucleotides attract and retain water molecules, improving tissue hydration without the volumising effect of HA fillers
• Angiogenesisthey promote the formation of new blood vessels, improving tissue oxygenation and nutrient delivery
• Melanogenesis regulationemerging evidence suggests PNs may help regulate melanin production, with potential benefits for pigmentation disorders

PDRN vs PN: Understanding the Difference

While often used interchangeably, there is a technical distinction:

• PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide)a specific fraction of DNA with a molecular weight of 50-1,500 kDa, extracted through a purification process. Acts primarily through the A2A receptor pathway
• PN (Polynucleotide)a broader term encompassing longer DNA chains with molecular weights of 1,500+ kDa. May have additional biophysical properties due to their larger molecular size

What can polynucleotide therapy treat?

The versatility of polynucleotide therapy makes it suitable for a wide range of concerns:

• Skin ageingimproving elasticity, firmness, and overall skin quality in the face, neck, and decolletage
• Under-eye dark circles and hollowingthe periorbital area responds particularly well to PN therapy due to its regenerative rather than volumising mechanism
• Crepey skinthin, textured skin on the face, neck, and hands
• Acne scarringpromoting tissue remodelling and improving scar quality
• Post-procedural healingaccelerating recovery after laser treatments, chemical peels, or microneedling
• Hair lossscalp injections of PDRN have shown promise in promoting hair follicle health and growth
• Stretch marksimproving the quality and appearance of striae

The treatment procedure

1. Consultationthorough skin assessment and discussion of concerns, expectations, and treatment plan
2. Skin preparationcleansing and optional application of topical anaesthetic cream (15-20 minutes before treatment)
3. Injection techniquepolynucleotides are injected using a series of small injections (nappage technique) or using a cannula, depending on the area and practitioner preference
4. Treatment areasface, under-eyes, neck, decolletage, hands, and scalp are common treatment zones
5. Post-treatmentmild redness and small papules at injection points are normal and typically resolve within 24-48 hours

Treatment Protocol

A typical polynucleotide treatment protocol involves:

• Initial course: 3-4 sessions spaced 2-3 weeks apart
• Maintenance: single sessions every 3-6 months to maintain results
• Combination protocols: PNs can be alternated with skin boosters (e.g., Profhilo) for comprehensive skin rejuvenation

Polynucleotides vs other skin boosters

Understanding how polynucleotides compare to other injectable skin treatments helps in treatment planning:

• Profhilo (HA skin booster)primarily hydrates and provides mild lifting through high and low molecular weight HA. Complementary to PNs rather than a substitute
• Skinvive/Volite (HA micro-droplets)improves skin smoothness and hydration through micro-deposits of HA in the dermis
• Polynucleotidesunique mechanism working through DNA-derived regeneration, stimulating the skins own repair processes. Particularly effective for the under-eye area where HA products carry higher risks
• Exosomesnewer technology using cell-derived vesicles. Less clinical evidence currently available compared to PNs

Available Products in the UK

Several polynucleotide products are available in the UK market:

• Ameelaa range of PN-based products for different treatment areas including face, eyes, and body
• Nucleofillconcentrated polynucleotide gel available in different formulations
• PlinestPDRN-based product with a focus on skin regeneration
• Vitaranpolynucleotide product for mesotherapy protocols

Safety and side effects

Polynucleotide therapy has an excellent safety profile:

• BiocompatiblePNs are highly purified and the risk of allergic reaction is extremely low
• No risk of vascular occlusionunlike HA fillers, PNs do not carry the risk of vascular compromise as they do not create volumetric pressure
• Common side effectsmild redness, swelling, and small papules at injection sites (resolving within 24-48 hours), bruising
• Contraindicationsknown allergy to fish (salmon/trout-derived products), active infection in the treatment area, pregnancy or breastfeeding, autoimmune conditions

“Polynucleotide therapy bridges the gap between skin boosters and biostimulators. This offers a unique regenerative mechanism that complements existing treatments in the aesthetic practitioners toolkit.”, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology

Frequently asked questions

Summary

Polynucleotide therapy is a genuine advance in regenerative aesthetics. This offers a biologically distinct approach to skin rejuvenation that complements existing treatments. By stimulating the skins own repair mechanisms, PNs deliver natural-looking improvements in skin quality, firmness, and radiance. We are excited to offer this evidence-based treatment as part of Our focus on bringing the latest advances in aesthetic medicine to patients.