You may feel some minor discomfort from the tiny injections, but this is usually well-tolerated. We apply a topical numbing cream beforehand to make the treatment as comfortable as possible.
Polynucleotides are the latest innovation in cosmetic injectable treatments. They are receiving excellent reviews due to their efficacy in skin rejuvenation and treating ageing concerns. Polynucleotides are not dermal fillers. They are natural, highly purified piscine DNA molecules derived from salmon (piscine DNA). This treatment is used to improve skin quality and overall appearance thanks to their ability to stimulate the natural production of new collagen and elastin within the skin.
Polynucleotides are naturally occurring molecules made of nucleotide chains. They are the building blocks of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid), which carries genetic information about an organism and RNA (Ribonucleic acid), which is essential for most biological functions. Polynucleotides are found in all living cells and play a vital role in regeneration and cell repair.
Treatments like Plinest and NEWEST use highly purified salmon DNA, which reduces immune reactions and promotes skin healing. These contain high molecular weight polynucleotide chains in different strengths. Because the DNA is so pure and different from human DNA, it helps reduce the risk of immune reactions.
When injected, polynucleotide molecule chains attract and bind with water molecules and have an anti-free radical action. This means they clear up free radicals that accumulate because of cell damage, sun damage, and stress, creating a poor environment for skin rejuvenation.
By moisturising and hydrating the skin and reducing free radical activity, they help create an optimal environment for skin cells, and fibroblast growth, stimulating collagen and elastin production to restore skin quality and elasticity.
Polynucleotides are not the same as dermal fillers, which replace lost volume and contour or shape facial structures.
They are bio-stimulators or bio-revitalisers, which, once injected stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin to repair tissue and restore skin elasticity and structure, as well as hydrating and reducing inflammation.
At BU Aesthetics™ on the Wirral, Caroline, our Independent Nurse Prescriber is fully trained in the use of polynucleotides and offers this treatment using Plinest and NEWEST.
Approximately 30 - 45 minutes.
None.
Pregnant or breastfeeding. Under 18 years old. Known allergy to hyaluronic acid or mannitol (NEWEST only). The polynucleotide products are derived from fish, making them unsuitable for those with a known allergy to fish, fish products, or shellfish, or strict vegans or vegetarians.
Minimal, transient tenderness, redness and swelling at the injection site for 24-72 hours depending on the area treated. May cause mild bruising.
Improving skin elasticity, quality, tone, texture, and overall appearance to treat ageing, pigmentation, and sun damage. Also, for the improvement of acne scars and stretch marks and to treat hair loss.
Starting from £200 per session (with a discount when a course is booked.)
Gradual due to bio-stimulatory effect. Skin rejuvenation, repair, and regeneration of tissue to achieve younger-looking skin and an improvement in overall appearance with initial results after 3-4 weeks. Results last 6-9 months; maintenance is recommended every 6 months.
At BU Aesthetics™ on the Wirral, we use two main polynucleotide injectables: Plinest and NEWEST. All stimulate collagen and elastin production, improve hydration, and reduce inflammation, but each is suited to different needs.
Plinest – (20 mg/ml polynucleotide) – Designed to maintain and improve skin quality, smooth fine lines, enhance tone, and help reduce the appearance of acne scars. It is delivered through superficial (intradermal) injections, placing tiny droplets of product evenly across the treatment areas.
NEWEST – (10 mg/ml polynucleotide + 10 mg/ml non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid + mannitol) – Best for mature, dehydrated skin, boosting hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance. Superficial injections.
Polynucleotides can be used on the face, neck, décolleté, hands, arms, knees, and abdomen. They are also used for treating alopecia to target hair loss. They work as stand-alone treatments or alongside dermal fillers, PRP therapy, anti-wrinkle injections, skin boosters, and Profhilo.
As a guide, we recommend a series of 4 polynucleotide treatments, spaced 2-4 weeks apart, for optimal results. Older patients may require more sessions to repair skin ageing.
The number of polynucleotide treatments required will depend on the area being treated, your skin’s starting condition, any targeted concerns, and the desired results.
Following your consultation and examination, our Independent Nurse Prescriber, Caroline, will prescribe a bespoke treatment plan for you.
Before receiving treatment with Plinest or NEWEST, you’ll need a consultation with our Independent Nurse Prescriber, Caroline. She will review your medical history, allergies and any medications to check if the treatment is right for you.
Treatment will be contradicted if:
Polynucleotides are suitable for men and women of all skin types and colours, so if you are generally in good health, you should be able to have treatment. All aspects of treatment, including any risks, will be fully explained during your consultation.
You may feel some minor discomfort from the tiny injections, but this is usually well-tolerated. We apply a topical numbing cream beforehand to make the treatment as comfortable as possible.
Yes – Polynucleotides have been used in other medical applications for some time and are safe for most people in aesthetic applications, even those with sensitive skin. The manufacturer has reported no serious adverse effects.
After your treatment, you should expect some redness, tenderness and possible bruising at the injection points.
Any mild swelling will increase in the first few hours after treatment. This is a natural body reaction to the procedure and may mean you appear more swollen for a short time, but it will resolve quickly, likely within 24-48 hours, depending on where you have been injected.
Rare side effects include:
As an independent nurse prescriber, Caroline has significant experience in complication management and can diagnose and prescribe medications if an adverse side effect occurs. Full aftercare advice will be given.
The results from polynucleotide treatments are not immediate, although you will notice some swift, visible changes to skin hydration with the use of NEWEST due to the additional hyaluronic acid within the product.
Expect gradual, incremental improvements to skin quality, which will show after 3-4 weeks, increasing with additional treatment sessions, and with the full effect at approximately 3 months after your final session as new collagen and elastin are naturally stimulated within the tissue.
A clinical study of 15 patients showed that after 20 weeks, skin hydration improved by 115% and elasticity by 38%. Other studies have reported 50% increases in skin thickness and 47% in collagen.
Due to the bio-stimulatory effect, the results are incremental and gradual throughout and after the treatment programme. The final result is expected to continue for 6-9 months; we recommend returning for another treatment session after 6 months to maintain your results.
There is minimal downtime for Polynucleotides that should subside within a
Polynucleotides are regenerative and gradually improve skin health from within, with results such as smoother texture, better elasticity, reduced fine lines, and improved scarring over a series of treatments.
Profhilo is a biostimulator and gives a faster visible boost—deep hydration, firmer skin, and a fresher, more radiant appearance within weeks. When combined, you can expect both immediate glow and long-term rejuvenation.
If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry, simply get in touch with BU Aesthetics™ or book a consultation with Caroline. She’ll assess your medical history, discuss your aesthetic goals, and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.