Polynucleotides

Polynucleotides, also called PN or PDRN are an injectable, skin-boosting, regenerative treatment that has gained popularity in recent years. Although, they have been used in medicine since the 1980’s to treat joint issues.

Polynucleotides are made up of chains of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. When used in aesthetics, polynucleotides are typically derived from the sperm of salmon or trout, and are then purified and sterilised for medical use. They are then injected into the skin to provide instant hydration and long term bio-remodelling.

Polynucleotides have several skin-boosting benefits for the skin, including improving skin texture and elasticity and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. They do this by providing instant hydration whilst also promoting fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. They are also thought to have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, which can help to reduce redness, swelling, and other signs of skin damage.

Polynucleotides are exceptionally versatile. They can be used to treat both body and face, including necks, décolletage, the delicate eye area, back of hands, abdomen, thighs, knees, arms, stretch marks across the body.

Polynucleotides can also help with lumpy or sunken scars, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, melasma, rosacea, general signs of facial ageing, eyebrow and scalp hair loss. They can also be used to help address post-menopause vaginal concerns.

Polynucleotides have moisturising and antioxidant properties which create an optimal environment within your skin to promote the natural growth of fibroblasts, which produce collagen and elastin.

They can enhance hydration, tissue elasticity and tightness and help rejuvenate the skin.

Side effects and complications include but are not limited to:

• Pain or stinging whilst the injection is performed.
• Injections into the lip area could trigger a recurrence of facial cold sores (herpes simplex infections) for patients with a history of prior cold sores.
• Localised swelling, redness and or tenderness.
• Bleeding at the sites of injection.
• Bruising - may be severe in rare cases and may persist for several days.

Rare Side Effects

• Persistent or prolonged pain, swelling, or inflammation.
• Infection (can occur within days or as long as months).
• Allergic reaction or delayed sensitivity reaction - not recommended for people with fish allergies.
• Compression / Vascular Compromise - the blood supply to the skin may be interrupted by swelling or inadvertent injection into a vessel, causing pain and/or discolouration. This can lead to necrosis of the skin if not dealt with, skin damage and possible scarring. (Very rare).

Report any side effects to your practitioner as soon as you experience them. They will be best placed to provide you with aftercare and advice.