Polynucleotides are the latest treatment available at D’Souza Aesthetics. They are an injectable, skin-boosting, regenerative treatment that has gained popularity in recent years but have been used in medicine since the 1980s to treat joint issues and promote wound healing.
Polynucleotides are the building blocks of DNA. When used in aesthetics, polynucleotides are typically derived from the sperm of salmon or trout, which are then purified and sterilised for medical use. They are then injected into the skin to provide instant hydration and long term bio-remodelling.
Polynucleotides have several skin-boosting benefits for the skin:
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improving skin texture and elasticity
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reducing fine lines and wrinkles
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anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties
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reducing skin pigmentation
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enhanced wound healing including acne scarring and surgical scars
How do polynucleotides work?
Polynucleotides create dewy looking skin from their hydration effect. In addition to this, polynucleotides work to boost fibroblast production, inducing tissue repair processes, reducing inflammatory processes, regulating melanogenesis and promoting hydration in the skin. Polynucleotides stimulate regeneration of the skin at the cellular level so it takes time to be seen visually in terms of improved texture, minimised pores and improved pigmentation.
Most people notice a difference after 2-4 weeks, but your skin will continue to improve with optimum results expected about 3 months after the course of treatment has been completed.
What can polynucleotides be used for?
Polynucleotides are exceptionally versatile. They can be used to treat both body and face, including necks, décolletage, the delicate eye area, back of hands, abdomen, thighs, knees, arms, and more!
Polynucleotides can help with lumpy or sunken scars, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, melasma, rosacea, general signs of facial ageing, and eyebrow and scalp hair loss.
How do I prepare for polynucleotide treatment?
As with any other injectable treatment, unless prescribed, avoid NSAIDS, fish oils and alcohol prior to your treatment.
Ensure you’ve had a drink and something to eat beforehand and remove any makeup. You can also apply a topical anaesthetic cream such as EMLA or LMX4 to the skin area concerned 20-30 minutes prior to your appointment.
What happens during the appointment?
Dr Charlotte will take a thorough medical history from you, explain the treatment procedure, discuss any potential risks and benefits, and take informed consent. Pre-procedure photographs will be also be taken.
Any makeup from your face/area to be treated will be removed, and a sterile solution will clean the area to be treated. Your practitioner will apply (more) topical anaesthetic and allow this to take effect for 15-20 minutes.
You may feel a sharp scratch or stinging sensation, and feel discomfort as the product is injected. You will likely have bumps that resemble bee stings at the injection sites and you may also have pin-pricks of blood following the treatment.
As the polynucleotide is absorbed over the next few hours, the bumps and associated redness will reduce. You are able to carry on with your day as normal.
It is recommended that a course of treatments (usually 3 or 4) is carried out 3 weeks apart for optimum results. Following this, maintenance treatments are advised once or twice a year.
What should I do after my appointment?
Do:
- Avoid the sun
- Use a broad spectrum sunscreen daily, ideally SPF30+
- Use collagen-stimulating peptides
- Keep hydrated
Don’t:
- Use ‘active’ skin care products (retinols, AHAs, acids) for 48-72 hours
- Use make up for 24 hours after treatment
- Do strenuous exercise – sweating can enable bacteria to enter the channels created during the treatment
- Take NSAIDs (they increase the change of bruising)
What are the risks and side effects of polynucleotides?
Side effects and complications include but are not limited to:
- Pain or stinging whilst the injection is performed
- Localised swelling, redness and or tenderness (can persist for 24-72 hours)
- Bleeding at the sites of injection
- Bruising – may be severe in rare cases and may persist for several days
How much does it cost?
Special introductory offer: £300 per treatment or £825 for a course of 3 (saving of £225)
Usual price £350 per session, £900 for a course of 3 (saving of £150)
It is recommended that a course of treatments (usually 3 or more) is carried out 3-4 weeks apart for optimum results. Following this, maintenance treatments are advised every 6 months.
