Polynucleotide Therapy

Polynucleotides (PDRN — polydeoxyribonucleotide) are highly purified DNA fragments derived from salmon or trout sperm, which share approximately 95% DNA compatibility with human DNA. When injected into the skin, they stimulate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level by activating growth factor receptors, increasing fibroblast activity, and promoting new collagen production. Unlike hyaluronic acid treatments that primarily hydrate, polynucleotides actively repair damaged skin architecture — making them particularly effective for sun damage, scarring, and premature ageing.

Polynucleotides are clinically effective for: fine lines and skin texture improvement, sun damage and UV-related skin ageing, thin or crepey skin, early skin laxity, acne scarring (surface-level), post-inflammatory skin damage, dull and tired-looking skin, and under-eye hollowing and dark circles. They are particularly valuable for patients whose skin has been damaged by years of sun exposure — very common in Pakistan — and for patients in their 30s and 40s wanting to address skin quality before more significant intervention is needed.

Both PRP and polynucleotides stimulate tissue regeneration, but via different mechanisms. PRP uses growth factors from your own blood platelets to accelerate healing and collagen production. Polynucleotides provide DNA building blocks that directly stimulate cell repair and fibroblast activity — a more targeted regenerative signal. Polynucleotides are more standardised in concentration than PRP (which varies by patient), and their results are more predictable. The two can be combined for enhanced regenerative effect.

A standard polynucleotide protocol involves 3–4 sessions spaced 2–3 weeks apart for the initial course. Results build progressively as collagen remodelling occurs — peak results are typically visible 8–12 weeks after completing the initial course. Maintenance sessions every 3–6 months sustain the regenerative effect. For under-eye treatment specifically, 3 sessions is the standard initial protocol.

Topical anaesthetic is applied before treatment to ensure comfort. Polynucleotide injections use very fine needles and are generally well tolerated. Mild redness, small injection bumps, and occasionally minor bruising are expected immediately after and resolve within 24–48 hours. The under-eye area may have more visible swelling for 2–3 days due to the delicate skin in that zone.

Yes — polynucleotides are one of the safest regenerative treatments for South Asian and Pakistani skin tones. They do not use heat or energy, so there is no risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) that concerns us with laser treatments on darker skin. Because they work with the skin's natural repair mechanisms rather than against them, the risk profile is very low. Serious adverse events are extremely rare.

Yes — polynucleotides combine well with almost all other skin treatments. They are particularly synergistic with skin boosters (HA addresses hydration while polynucleotides address repair), mesotherapy, laser treatments (polynucleotides accelerate healing post-laser), and PRP. Your doctor will design a combined protocol if multiple concerns are being addressed, sequenced to maximise the benefit of each treatment.

The collagen and structural improvements stimulated by polynucleotides are relatively long-lasting — the new collagen formed does not disappear when the product itself resorbs. Most patients see maintained results for 9–12 months after completing the initial course, particularly if they maintain sun protection. Maintenance sessions every 6 months keep the regenerative stimulus active and the results sustained.