Understanding the clinical role of polynucleotides in regenerative aesthetic treatments

As regenerative aesthetics continues to evolve, clinicians are increasingly looking beyond traditional volume replacement and neuromodulation to treatments that support tissue repair and long-term skin health. One of the most significant developments in this area is the use of polynucleotides aesthetic treatment protocols. In Canada, polynucleotides are gaining attention for their ability to improve skin quality, hydration, and cellular regeneration without altering facial structure.

This article explores the science behind polynucleotides, focusing on their mechanism of action, clinical outcomes, and practical application in skin rejuvenation. It is written for healthcare professionals who want a deeper understanding of how polynucleotides work at a cellular level and how to integrate them safely into aesthetic practice.

What are polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine?

Polynucleotides are biopolymers derived from purified DNA fragments, most commonly of salmon origin, that are highly biocompatible with human tissue. In aesthetic medicine, they are used as injectable regenerative agents designed to stimulate tissue repair rather than add volume.

Unlike dermal fillers, which primarily work by occupying space, polynucleotides act on the dermal environment itself. Their primary role is to improve skin quality by enhancing cellular function, hydration, and extracellular matrix support.

Key takeaway: Polynucleotides are regenerative injectables focused on skin repair and quality, not volumisation.

How do polynucleotides work on the skin?

Polynucleotides exert their effects through several complementary biological mechanisms. Once injected into the dermis, they act as bioactive scaffolds that support fibroblast activity and tissue regeneration.

One of their key functions is binding to water molecules, improving deep dermal hydration. This hydrated environment supports optimal cellular metabolism and improves skin elasticity and texture over time.

In addition, polynucleotides stimulate fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, contributing to gradual improvements in skin firmness and resilience. Their anti-inflammatory properties also help modulate oxidative stress, which plays a significant role in skin ageing.

Key takeaway: Polynucleotides improve skin health by supporting hydration, collagen production, and cellular repair.

What is the mechanism of action of polynucleotides?

At a cellular level, polynucleotides interact with adenosine A2A receptors, triggering pathways involved in tissue repair and angiogenesis. This receptor activation encourages fibroblast migration and proliferation, enhancing dermal regeneration.

Polynucleotides also act as free radical scavengers, reducing oxidative damage within the dermis. This antioxidant effect is particularly relevant in patients with environmentally damaged or prematurely aged skin.

Through these mechanisms, polynucleotides support the restoration of the extracellular matrix, leading to improvements in skin tone, texture, and elasticity over a series of treatments.

Key takeaway: The regenerative effects of polynucleotides are receptor-mediated and biologically driven, rather than mechanical.

What do polynucleotides do under the eyes?

The periorbital area presents unique challenges due to thin skin, limited sebaceous glands, and a high risk of swelling with traditional fillers. Polynucleotides are particularly well suited to this area because they do not add volume.

When used under the eyes, polynucleotides improve skin quality by increasing hydration, strengthening the dermal matrix, and reducing fine lines. They may also improve the appearance of crepiness and dark circles related to skin thinning rather than pigmentation.

Because polynucleotides integrate naturally into tissue and do not attract excessive water, they carry a lower risk of persistent oedema compared to hyaluronic acid fillers.

Key takeaway: Polynucleotides are ideal for delicate areas such as the under eyes, where skin quality improvement is the primary goal.

How long do polynucleotide results last?

Polynucleotide treatments are typically delivered as a course of injections spaced several weeks apart. Initial improvements in hydration and skin texture are often visible within a few weeks, with continued improvement as collagen remodelling occurs.

Results generally last between six and nine months, depending on patient factors such as age, skin condition, lifestyle, and adherence to maintenance treatments. Many clinicians recommend periodic maintenance sessions to sustain regenerative effects.

Key takeaway: Polynucleotides deliver gradual, long-lasting skin improvements when used as part of a structured treatment plan.

Is polynucleotide treatment better than anti-wrinkle injections?

Polynucleotides and anti-wrinkle injections serve different clinical purposes and are not direct substitutes. Anti-wrinkle treatments reduce dynamic muscle activity, while polynucleotides improve skin quality at a cellular level.

In practice, the two are often complementary. Anti-wrinkle injections address expression lines, while polynucleotides enhance skin texture, hydration, and resilience. Combining modalities allows clinicians to deliver more comprehensive rejuvenation outcomes.

Key takeaway: Polynucleotides are not “better” than anti-wrinkle injections, but they address different aspects of ageing and work well together.

What not to do after polynucleotides on the face

Post-treatment care is essential to optimise outcomes and reduce the risk of adverse effects. Patients should be advised to avoid excessive heat, intense exercise, alcohol consumption, and facial massage for at least 24 to 48 hours.

It is also important to avoid applying pressure to treated areas and to delay additional aesthetic treatments until the skin has settled. Clear aftercare guidance supports optimal integration of the product and enhances patient satisfaction.

Key takeaway: Appropriate aftercare protects treatment results and supports the regenerative process.

Training in polynucleotides and skin rejuvenation

Because polynucleotides require precise placement and sound anatomical knowledge, formal training is essential. At Derma Institute Canada, healthcare professionals can develop competence through dedicated regenerative and skin quality programmes.

Recommended training pathways include:

Skin Boosters Training Course

Skin Rejuvenation Certification

Eligibility requirements for training can be reviewed on the Who We Train page.

Key takeaway: Evidence-based training ensures safe, effective, and confident use of polynucleotides in clinical practice.

Conclusion

Polynucleotides represent a significant advancement in regenerative aesthetic medicine, offering clinicians a scientifically grounded approach to improving skin quality without altering facial structure. Their mechanisms of action, safety profile, and versatility make them a valuable tool in modern skin rejuvenation protocols.

Talk to our team to find out more about training courses and how to integrate polynucleotides into your aesthetic practice.