Rejuvenating Skin from Within – Is It Right for You?

In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic medicine, a new, sophisticated approach to skin rejuvenation has gained significant traction: Polynucleotide (PN) treatment. Moving beyond traditional fillers that primarily add volume, polynucleotides represent a leap towards bio-regenerative aesthetics, working at a cellular level to enhance skin quality, texture, and overall health. For those seeking natural-looking improvements and a deeper revitalisation, understanding how this innovative treatment works is key to determining if it’s the right choice.

What is Polynucleotide Treatment and How Does It Work?

Polynucleotide treatment involves the injection of purified, long-chain DNA fragments, typically derived from highly biocompatible sources such as salmon or trout sperm. These natural compounds are not designed to fill lines or add volume in the way hyaluronic acid fillers do. Instead, they act as powerful biostimulators, initiating a cascade of beneficial biological processes within the skin itself.

Once injected into the skin, polynucleotides work through several mechanisms:

1. Stimulating Fibroblast Activity: Fibroblasts are the “architects” of our skin, responsible for producing vital components like collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. Polynucleotides “wake up” and activate these dormant cells, encouraging them to produce new, healthy collagen and elastin. This process directly improves the skin’s natural structure, firmness, and elasticity.
2. Promoting Cellular Regeneration and Repair: The DNA fragments aid in the repair of damaged cells and tissues, supporting the skin’s natural healing processes and improving its overall health and resilience.
3. Enhancing Hydration: Polynucleotides have a significant capacity to bind water, leading to deep and lasting hydration within the skin. This contributes to improved skin plumpness, radiance, and a reduction in fine lines caused by dehydration.
4. Providing Antioxidant Effects: They offer protection against free radical damage, which is a major contributor to premature skin ageing, helping to preserve the skin’s youthful appearance.
5. Improving Microcirculation: Some studies suggest that polynucleotides can also help improve blood flow in the treated areas, further supporting nutrient delivery and waste removal, which are essential for healthy skin function.

The treatment typically involves a series of small, precise injections into the targeted areas. A course of treatments, usually comprising 2-4 sessions spaced a few weeks apart, is generally recommended for optimal and sustained results, followed by periodic maintenance sessions.

How Do You Know If Polynucleotide Treatment is Right for You?

Polynucleotide treatment offers unique benefits, making it an excellent option for specific aesthetic concerns and patient preferences. Consider if it aligns with your goals if you:

1. Seek Natural, Subtler Rejuvenation:

• If you’re looking for an improvement in skin quality, texture, and radiance without adding significant volume or drastically altering your facial features, polynucleotides are ideal. They promote your skin’s natural regeneration, leading to a refreshed, healthier appearance.

1. Are Concerned About Skin Quality and Ageing:

• This treatment is highly effective for addressing concerns such as:
• Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Particularly those caused by a loss of collagen and elasticity, or general skin crepiness.
• Loss of Skin Firmness and Elasticity: Improving skin laxity and bounce.
• Dull, Dehydrated Skin: Restoring a healthy glow and deep hydration.
• Uneven Skin Tone/Texture: Promoting a smoother, more refined complexion.

1. Wish to Target the Delicate Under-Eye Area:

• Polynucleotides are gaining significant popularity for rejuvenating the often-challenging under-eye area. They can improve skin thickness, reduce fine lines, and help diminish dark circles without the risk of puffiness or overfilling sometimes associated with hyaluronic acid fillers in this very delicate region.

1. Are Experiencing Scarring (e.g., Acne Scars):

• Due to their regenerative properties, polynucleotides can be beneficial in improving the appearance of certain types of atrophic (indented) scars by stimulating tissue repair and collagen remodelling.

1. Prefer a Biocompatible and Minimally Invasive Approach:

• Derived from natural sources and highly biocompatible, polynucleotide treatments generally have a very low risk of adverse reactions. They are also minimally invasive, involving injections rather than surgery, with relatively little downtime.

1. Are Looking for a Complementary Treatment:

• Polynucleotides can often be used effectively in combination with other aesthetic treatments, such as hyaluronic acid fillers, neurotoxins (Botox), or energy-based devices, to provide comprehensive rejuvenation and enhance overall results.

1. Understand the Need for a Course of Treatments:

• Unlike some treatments that offer immediate results, polynucleotide benefits accumulate over a course of sessions as the skin’s regeneration processes are stimulated. Patience and commitment to the treatment plan are necessary.

When it might not be the primary treatment for you:

• If your primary concern is significant volume loss (e.g., in cheeks or temples), deep static wrinkles requiring filling, or dramatic facial contouring – traditional dermal fillers would likely be more suitable.
• If you have active skin infections or certain auto-immune conditions, your practitioner will advise against it.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if polynucleotide treatment is right for you is through a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced aesthetic practitioner like Dr Hennessy Aesthetics. They will assess your skin, discuss your concerns and medical history, and help you understand how polynucleotides can fit into your overall aesthetic journey, ensuring your goals are met safely and effectively.