Polynucleotides (PDRN/PN): The Regenerative Injectable Redefining Skin Repair

Polynucleotides (PN), including PDRN-based formulations, are rapidly becoming one of the most discussed regenerative treatments in aesthetic medicine. Unlike traditional injectables that focus on volume or hydration alone, polynucleotides work at a cellular level to support tissue repair, skin regeneration, and overall skin quality improvement.

At The London Cosmetic Clinic, regenerative injectables such as PN are increasingly used as part of tailored treatment plans for patients seeking natural skin rejuvenation without excessive volume change.

What Are Polynucleotides and Where Do They Come From?

Polynucleotides are biopolymers composed of long chains of nucleotides (DNA fragments) derived from purified biological sources. In aesthetic medicine, they are typically extracted and purified from salmon or trout DNA due to its high biocompatibility with human skin.

These molecules are designed to support the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, making them a key player in regenerative aesthetics.

The Science of DNA-Fragment Therapy

Polynucleotide therapy is based on the principle that fragmented DNA can stimulate cellular repair pathways. Once injected into the skin, polynucleotides act as biological signalling molecules that help:

• Improve cell turnover
• Enhance tissue regeneration
• Support hydration at a cellular level
• Reduce inflammation

This makes PN a form of biorevitalisation rather than volumisation, targeting skin quality rather than structure

How PDRN Stimulates Fibroblasts and Tissue Repair

PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) works by activating adenosine A2 receptors in the skin, which enhances:

• Fibroblast activity
• Collagen synthesis
• Angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation)
• Wound healing response

This biological cascade leads to improved skin density, elasticity, and overall regeneration over time.

What Conditions Respond Well to PN Treatment?

Polynucleotides are versatile and can be used across multiple skin concerns where regeneration and repair are needed.

Acne Scarring and Textural Irregularities

PN can help improve:

• Atrophic acne scars
• Uneven skin texture
• Enlarged pores
• Post-inflammatory skin damage

By stimulating fibroblast activity, polynucleotides support gradual remodelling of damaged tissue.

Under-Eye Hollowing and Dark Circles

The delicate periocular area responds well to PN therapy, particularly for:

• Crepey skin
• Mild under-eye hollowing
• Dark circles linked to thin skin
• Fatigue-related skin dullness

Unlike fillers, PN improves skin quality rather than adding volume, making results appear very natural.

Sun-Damaged and Dehydrated Skin

Polynucleotides are also effective for photoaged skin, helping to:

• Improve hydration levels
• Enhance elasticity
• Reduce fine lines
• Support repair of UV-damaged tissue

This makes them particularly useful for patients with long-term sun exposure.

Polynucleotides vs Other Regenerative Treatments

As regenerative aesthetics expands, polynucleotides are often compared to PRP, exosomes, and skin boosters. Each treatment works differently, despite overlapping goals.

PN vs PRP: What’s the Difference?

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) uses the patient’s own blood to deliver growth factors, while PN is a purified DNA-based injectable

Key differences:

• PRP relies on patient biology and platelet concentration
• PN offers standardised formulation and consistency
• PN is generally less operator-dependent than PRP
• PRP contains growth factors; PN focuses on cellular repair signalling

Both can improve skin quality, but PN provides more predictable consistency.

PN vs Exosomes: Overlapping and Distinct Benefits

Exosomes and polynucleotides are both regenerative, but function differently:

• Exosomes: cell-to-cell communication via growth factors and signalling proteins
• Polynucleotides: structural DNA fragments that support repair and hydration pathways

Overlap:

• Collagen stimulation
• Skin rejuvenation
• Inflammation reduction

Differences:

• Exosomes act as biological messengers
• PN acts more as a structural regenerative scaffold

PN vs Skin Boosters (Profhilo, Juvederm Volite)

Skin boosters primarily focus on hydration and superficial dermal improvement, while polynucleotides work deeper on tissue regeneration.

• Profhilo / Volite: hydration, elasticity, glow
• Polynucleotides: repair, regeneration, scar improvement, skin density

In many cases, these treatments are complementary rather than competitive.

Treatment Protocol, Results and Downtime

Polynucleotide treatments are typically delivered via microinjections into the dermis.

How Many Sessions and How Far Apart?

A standard protocol often includes:

• 2 to 4 initial sessions
• Spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart
• Maintenance every 4 to 6 months

The exact plan depends on skin condition and treatment goals.

What to Expect at Each Stage

Immediately after treatment:

• Mild swelling or redness
• Small injection marks (temporary)

2–4 weeks:

• Improved hydration
• Subtle glow and texture improvement

6–12 weeks:

• Noticeable improvement in elasticity
• Reduction in fine lines
• Enhanced overall skin quality

Results are gradual and regenerative rather than immediate volumising effects.

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