Frequently Asked Questions
Polynucleotides
What are polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are highly purified fragments of DNA, usually derived from salmon or trout, that are injected into the skin. They are a CE-marked medical device and are biocompatible, meaning they work in harmony with your body. Unlike dermal fillers, they do not add volume. Instead, they support your skin's natural repair and renewal, helping it become healthier, thicker and more resilient over time.
How do polynucleotides work?
Polynucleotides stimulate fibroblasts, the cells that produce collagen and elastin. They also attract and hold water, which improves hydration, and have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help calm and protect the skin. Together, this improves skin quality, firmness, elasticity and texture.
Which areas can be treated?
At DermZen Clinic we treat:
Under eyes: dark circles, hollowness, fine lines and thin or crepey skin
Full face: dull or dehydrated skin, fine lines, uneven texture, acne scarring, redness and loss of firmness
Neck and décolletage: crepey skin, lines and loss of elasticity
Am I suitable for polynucleotide treatment?
Polynucleotides suit most skin types and ages, and are a good option if you want to improve the quality of your skin without changing your features. They are not suitable if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have an allergy to fish, salmon or any ingredient in the product
Have an active skin infection, cold sore or inflammation in the treatment area
Are unwell, or have an uncontrolled medical condition
If you have an autoimmune condition or take blood-thinning medication, we will discuss whether treatment is appropriate during your consultation.
How many polynucleotide treatments will I need?
We recommend a course of 3 sessions, 2 to 3 weeks apart. Some skin concerns may benefit from a fourth session. To maintain your results, we recommend a maintenance session every 6 to 12 months.
How do I prepare for my appointment?
Unless prescribed by your doctor, avoid taking anti-inflammatories (aspirin, Nurofen, ibuprofen, naproxen) for a few days before your treatment, as these increase the risk of bruising
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your treatment
If you are prone to bruising, you may wish to take arnica a few days before your treatment
Arrive with clean skin and no make-up on the treatment area if possible
If you are unwell on the day of your treatment, please contact us to reschedule your appointment
If there are any changes to your medical history or medication, please tell us before your treatment
Avoid booking your treatment within 2 weeks of an important social event or holiday
What happens during an appointment?
We will go through your medical history form (completed before your appointment) and assess your skin to decide whether treatment is right for you. We will explain the benefits, risks, side effects and costs so you can make an informed decision. Once you have given your consent, we take pre-treatment photographs. Numbing cream is applied for comfort, your skin is cleansed, and the polynucleotides are injected with a fine needle or cannula into the treatment area.
Does it hurt?
Most clients find the treatment very tolerable. We apply numbing cream beforehand, and use fine needles or a cannula to keep you comfortable. You may feel a stinging sensation as the product is injected, which passes quickly.
How long does the treatment take?
Your appointment usually lasts about 45 minutes, including time for the numbing cream to work. The injections themselves take around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the area treated.
When will I see results and how long do they last?
Polynucleotides work gradually, as your skin repairs and renews itself. Many clients notice brighter, more hydrated skin from about 4 weeks, with the best results 2 to 3 months after completing the course. Results typically last around 6 to 12 months, depending on your age, skin and lifestyle.**
**Results vary from person to person and depend on factors such as metabolism, smoking, sun exposure and skin condition.
Are there any side effects or risks?
Polynucleotides have a very good safety profile. Common, short-lived side effects include small bumps at the injection points, redness, tenderness, mild swelling and occasional bruising. Under-eye bumps and swelling can take a few days to settle. Rarer risks include infection, an allergic reaction and lumps that last longer. We will discuss all the risks with you in detail at your consultation.
What is the recovery time?
There is minimal downtime, and most clients return to work and their normal routine the same day. Small bumps usually settle within 24 to 48 hours, so you may wish to avoid booking treatment just before a special event.
How are polynucleotides different from Profhilo or dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers add volume and shape. Profhilo and other hyaluronic acid skin boosters deeply hydrate and improve skin laxity, but do not repair the skin in the same way. Polynucleotides work on skin repair and regeneration, improving the quality, thickness and resilience of the skin. They are especially suited to delicate areas such as under the eyes, and can be combined with other treatments for the best results.
Can polynucleotides help with acne scars, redness or pigmentation?
Polynucleotides can soften acne scarring and improve uneven texture by strengthening and repairing the skin. Their calming, anti-inflammatory action also makes them a good option for redness and sensitive skin. They are not a direct treatment for pigmentation; for that, we may recommend a skin peel or combining treatments.
Are polynucleotides suitable for all skin types and tones?
Yes. Polynucleotides are suitable for all skin types and tones, including darker skin, as they do not rely on heat or light and carry a low risk of pigmentation changes.
What is the best age to start?
There is no set age. Suitability depends on your skin rather than your birthday. Some clients start in their late 20s or 30s to support skin quality early, while others start later to restore firmness, hydration and elasticity.
Can polynucleotides be combined with other treatments?
Yes. Polynucleotides work well alongside anti-wrinkle injections, Profhilo, other skin boosters, skin peels and microneedling. We will plan the timing between treatments with you so that each one works at its best.
How much does it cost?
Polynucleotide treatment costs £300 per session, or £800 for a course of 3 sessions. See our full price list.
How do I care for my skin afterwards?
Avoid touching, rubbing or massaging the treated area
Avoid make-up for 12 hours
Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol for 24 hours
Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot baths and sunbathing for 48 hours
Avoid facials, peels, laser and microneedling for 2 weeks
Protect your skin with SPF 50 every day
Contact us as soon as possible if you experience any unexpected side effects
