Polynucleotide Treatments

What are polynucleotide skin treatments?

Polynucleotide treatments, also known as PDRN/PN therapy, are composed of purified fragments of DNA typically derived from salmon or trout. We offer two types of polynucleotide treatments in Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic. When injected into the skin, these DNA fragments have regenerative properties that can stimulate tissue repair and rejuvenation. They have been used since the 1970s in various aspects of medicine, including treating degenerative joints and diabetic ulcers. Polynucleotide treatments are compatible with the human body.

By delivering these purified DNA fragments directly into the skin, they work directly on the skin’s cellular machinery to affect the following:

• Activate adenosine A2 receptors and the “salvage pathway” to reduce inflammation and boost skin repair and healing.
• Stimulate fibroblasts responsible for collagen and elastin production, increasing skin elasticity and firmness, and remodelling surgical/traumatic and acne scars.
• Possesses viscoelastic properties that help to boost skin hydration.

How do polynucleotide skin treatments work?

Polynucleotide skin treatments work by stimulating cellular repair and regeneration processes in the following ways:

• Cellular repair: polynucleotides contain nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, which are essential for cellular function and repair. When applied to the skin, these molecules penetrate the deeper layers and interact with skin cells, helping to repair damaged DNA and promote the synthesis of proteins necessary for skin health.
• Collagen and elastin production: polynucleotides have been shown to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin fibres. These essential proteins provide structural support and elasticity to the skin and help maintain its firmness and elasticity.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: polynucleotides have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce redness, swelling, and irritation in the skin. This makes them suitable for calming sensitive or inflamed skin conditions.

Overall, polynucleotide skin treatments promote cellular repair and regeneration, stimulate collagen and elastin production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture and hydration. With continued use, these effects can lead to healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

Benefits of polynucleotide treatments

• Potent anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for sensitive skin disorders like eczema and rosacea
• Boost skin health by improving the appearance of pores
• Improves fine lines and wrinkles
• Boost hydration in dehydrated skin
• Healthier and glowing skin by boosting the skin’s cellular healing machinery
• Improves the appearance of acne scars, traumatic scars, and surgical scars

How is polynucleotide injected into the skin?

This will depend on the indications of the treatment and individual preference. There are mainly three methods of delivery:

• Manual microdroplet injections of product into the skin are useful, especially for the periorbital area.
• Injector gun delivery into the skin, a comfortable approach suitable for the cheeks, forehead, jawline, and nose.
• The cannula technique can also be used, especially when treating areas such as the upper eyelids.

What happens during the procedure?

At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, a polynucleotide treatment typically involves the following steps:

• Preparation: before the procedure, the treatment area is cleansed to minimise the risk of infection. A topical numbing cream or local anaesthesia may be administered for comfort during the procedure.
• Procedure: Dr Evelyn will strategically inject the product into the target area based on your specific concerns and treatment goals.
• Post-treatment care: after the procedure, a soothing mask may be applied to the treatment area to help alleviate discomfort or swelling. You are also advised to avoid certain skincare products for a specified period to optimise results and minimise the risk of complications.
• Follow-up: Dr Evelyn will guide post-treatment care and follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address concerns.

How many sessions are required?

Generally, it is recommended that you undergo three treatments, spaced 4-8 weeks apart, with the effects lasting 6-9 months post-treatment. Hence, maintenance sessions at 6-9 monthly intervals will be needed to maintain the impact of polynucleotide treatments. This also depends on the treatment indications, as polynucleotides can treat various skin concerns.

Frequently asked questions

What can I expect after polynucleotide treatments?

There will be slight redness and swelling post-procedure that usually resolves within 1-4 days.

Depending on the method of treatment delivery, pinpoint red needle puncture marks on the skin might appear and go away in a few days to a week. There is also a small risk of bruising, which can be facilitated using gentle injection techniques and appropriate treatment depths.

The effects of polynucleotide treatments are noticed within days after treatment, usually in improved skin texture, hydration, and reduced sensitivity. The peak of the biostimulatory effects of polynucleotide treatments, e.g., increased skin elasticity, firmness, and pores, is usually noticed 2-3 months after the third treatment session.

What are the side effects of polynucleotide (Rejuran, Plinest) treatments?

Unlike cross-linked HA fillers, vascular occlusion risk with polynucleotides is very unlikely, as they are of a watery consistency and contain tiny DNA fragments that mimic what is already in our bloodstream.

These polynucleotides are obtained from salmon and trout, so these treatments are unsuitable for vegetarians and individuals with salmon/trout allergies.

What is the difference between polynucleotide treatments and fillers?

Although polynucleotides and fillers are both injectables, they are different in their composition, purpose, and mode of action. Polynucleotides consist of purified DNA fragments and are more water-based. At the same time, fillers are gel-like and composed of cross-linked hyaluronic acids or collagen-stimulating substances such as PLLA and PCL.

Polynucleotide injections help improve skin quality by activating the skin's regenerative properties, boosting healing, and reducing inflammation. Hyaluronic acid fillers help to volumise and contour the skin while collagen-stimulating fillers both volumise the skin and improve skin quality.

What is the difference between skin boosters and polynucleotide treatments?

Skin boosters contain hyaluronic acid, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that can boost skin health and hydration and improve skin radiance. Polynucleotides, on the other hand, are purified fragments of DNA that boost the cellular healing machinery, helping the skin to regenerate and repair while possessing potent anti-inflammatory effects.

Can polynucleotide treatments be used in combination with other aesthetic treatments?

At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, we can customise our polynucleotide treatments by adding hyaluronic acid skin boosters and low-dose Botulinum toxin. Skin boosters can also be combined with other aesthetic treatments, such as dermal fillers, Botulinum toxin injections, HIFU, and microneedling RF, to enhance and complement their effects. Combining different treatments can often produce more comprehensive and synergistic results, addressing multiple skin concerns simultaneously and maximising results.