What are polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are injectable treatments derived from purified DNA fragments, typically sourced from salmon or trout sperm DNA, which shares a high degree of compatibility with human DNA. They are thought to work by interacting with receptors in the skin that support the skin's natural repair and regeneration processes, stimulating fibroblasts (the cells responsible for collagen production) and improving the local cellular environment. The result, over a course of sessions, is an improvement in skin quality, hydration and elasticity.
The use of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine is a developing and growing field, with an expanding evidence base supporting their use for skin rejuvenation and regeneration.
What can polynucleotides be used for?
Polynucleotide treatment can be used across different areas of the face and body where the goal is to improve skin quality rather than add volume or alter facial contours.
Under-eyes
The under-eye area is one of the most common areas treated with polynucleotides because the skin is naturally thin and prone to fine lines, crepey texture and declining elasticity. Treatment is designed to improve the quality and hydration of the skin without adding the volume associated with traditional dermal fillers.
Fine lines and crepey skin
Polynucleotides can be used where fine lines and crepey texture are associated with declining collagen, elasticity and hydration. Rather than filling individual lines, treatment focuses on supporting gradual improvement in the quality and resilience of the surrounding skin.
Face and skin rejuvenation
For patients noticing a general decline in skin quality, polynucleotides can be used across areas of the face to improve hydration, texture and elasticity. Treatment may be considered alone or as part of a wider skin rejuvenation plan alongside other injectable, laser or skincare treatments.
Neck and décolletage
The neck and décolletage can develop fine lines, crepey texture and loss of elasticity over time. Polynucleotides may be used in these areas to support skin quality and hydration without adding volume or changing the natural contours.
Acne scars
Polynucleotides may be considered as part of a wider treatment plan for selected acne scars where improving skin quality and supporting tissue remodelling are treatment goals. They do not replace established acne scar treatments, and Dr Phillips assesses the type and severity of scarring before determining whether polynucleotides have a useful role alongside other treatments.
How are polynucleotides different from fillers and Profhilo?
Polynucleotides, dermal fillers and Profhilo are frequently compared, but they work in different ways and are used for different purposes. Understanding how they differ can help clarify which treatment may be most appropriate for a particular skin concern.
Book a consultation with Dr Derrick Phillips to discuss whether polynucleotides are appropriate for your skin concerns.
| Feature | Polynucleotides | Profhilo | Dermal Fillers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary goal | Skin repair & quality | Hydration & bio-remodelling | Volume & structural support |
| How it works | Supports regenerative processes | Spreads through the skin | Remains in targeted areas |
| Adds volume? | No | No significant volume | Yes |
| Best suited to | Thin, delicate or crepey skin | Hydration, firmness & elasticity | Volume loss & contours |
What does a course of polynucleotide treatment involve?
Polynucleotides are administered through a series of carefully placed injections. Treatment typically involves a short course of two to three sessions spaced several weeks apart, with results developing gradually over time as the skin's regenerative response builds. Because the improvement comes from the skin's own processes rather than from an added substance, results look natural and progressive rather than immediate and dramatic.
Dr Phillips will discuss realistic expectations and confirm whether polynucleotides are the most appropriate option for your concerns at consultation.
2–3 sessions
Several weeks apart
Gradual results
What to expect
Your consultation begins with an assessment of your skin concerns and what you would like to achieve. Dr Phillips will explain whether polynucleotide treatment is appropriate, discuss the likely benefits and limitations, and agree an individualised treatment plan where suitable.
Treatment sessions are relatively quick. Mild swelling, redness or small bumps can occur at the injection sites afterwards and usually settle within a short period, although recovery varies between patients and treatment areas.
Consultation and assessment
Discuss your skin concerns, treatment area and what you would like to achieve.
Treatment planning
Dr Phillips explains whether polynucleotides are appropriate, including expected benefits and limitations.
Treatment
Polynucleotides are administered using carefully placed injections according to the area being treated.
Recovery and follow-up
Mild swelling, redness or small bumps may occur temporarily, with recovery varying by patient and treatment area
Is polynucleotide treatment evidence-based?
The evidence for polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine is developing, with published studies suggesting potential benefits for skin quality, hydration, elasticity and the under-eye area. However, the evidence base is still smaller and less established than for many longer-standing dermatological treatments.
Dr Phillips takes an evidence-based approach to polynucleotide treatment and will discuss whether it is appropriate for your concerns based on the available research, your skin and your treatment goals. Where the evidence is less established, this will be explained clearly so that you can make an informed decision about whether treatment is right for you.
Why choose Dr Derrick Phillips for polynucleotides in London
Dr Phillips takes a considered approach to polynucleotide treatment, looking at your skin as a whole and whether the treatment is well suited to your concerns and goals. He has extensive experience treating patients across a wide range of skin tones and tailors treatment accordingly.
For some patients, polynucleotides may be appropriate as a standalone treatment. For others, they may work better as part of a broader plan, or a different treatment may be more suitable. The aim is to recommend the option most likely to give a meaningful and natural-looking improvement.
What to know about polynucleotides
Polynucleotides are injectable treatments designed to improve skin quality, hydration and elasticity by supporting the skin's own repair processes.
They are not designed to add volume or alter facial contours.
Treatment is suitable for adults aged 18 years and over, following a face-to-face consultation.
Results develop gradually over a course of treatments and look natural.
The evidence base is growing, and Dr Phillips takes an evidence-based approach to their use.
FAQs
When should I see a dermatologist about acne?
If acne is painful, leaving scars or dark marks, or affecting your confidence, it’s worth seeing a dermatologist. Prescription treatments and specialist therapies can achieve results beyond what’s possible with over-the-counter products alone.
Can acne be cured?
Acne can usually be very well controlled, and many treatments — particularly isotretinoin — produce long-lasting improvement. The right approach depends on the type and severity, assessed at consultation.
Is my acne hormonal?
Acne that appears along the jawline and lower face in adulthood, or that flares around the menstrual cycle, often has a hormonal component. This is assessed at consultation, and treatment may include hormonal therapy alongside topical or oral options.
Will treatment help acne scars and dark marks?
Alongside treating active acne, Dr Phillips offers a range of treatments for established acne scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, including fractional CO₂ and UltraClear® laser resurfacing where appropriate.
Is acne treatment safe for darker skin tones?
Yes. Dr Phillips has extensive experience treating acne across diverse skin tones. In darker skin, treatment is planned not only to control active acne but also to minimise the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from the outset.
Can acne be treated with lasers instead of medication?
For some patients, yes. The AviClear® laser targets the oil glands that drive acne and is suitable across a wide range of skin tones. It isn’t right for every type or severity of acne, so this is assessed at consultation alongside topical, hormonal and oral options.
Do I have to take strong medication, like isotretinoin?
Not necessarily. Treatment is tailored to the type and severity of your acne. Many patients respond well to topical treatments, while others benefit from oral antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin when clinically appropriate — this is determined at consultation, not assumed in advance.