Polynucleotides Explained: Why Everyone Is Talking About Salmon DNA

If you’ve spent any time researching skin rejuvenation treatments recently, you’ve probably come across the word polynucleotides.

They are being discussed across aesthetic medicine, featured in beauty publications, and increasingly requested by patients looking for natural-looking skin improvement. Yet despite their growing popularity, many people still aren’t entirely sure what polynucleotides actually are, why they are sometimes referred to as “salmon DNA”, or whether they are the right treatment for their skin.

At Dr Liesel Holler, we have seen a significant increase in patients asking about regenerative treatments that focus on improving skin health rather than simply masking the visible signs of ageing. In clinic, we often see patients arrive expecting polynucleotides to work like dermal fillers or skin boosters. The reality is quite different. Rather than adding volume or simply increasing hydration, polynucleotides work by encouraging the skin to repair and regenerate itself.

This regenerative approach is one of the reasons they have become such an important part of modern aesthetic medicine, particularly for patients seeking healthier, stronger and more resilient skin with natural-looking results.

What Are Polynucleotides?

Polynucleotides are highly purified fragments of DNA derived from salmon that are used to support skin regeneration and repair. While they are often referred to as “salmon DNA injections”, the treatment does not involve raw salmon extracts. The DNA undergoes extensive purification to make it biocompatible and safe for medical use.

What makes polynucleotides particularly interesting is their ability to improve skin quality rather than simply add volume. They work by stimulating fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, while also supporting hydration, reducing oxidative stress and encouraging cellular repair.

As collagen production naturally declines with age, the skin can become thinner, less elastic and more prone to fine lines and dullness. Polynucleotides help address these changes by supporting the skin’s own regenerative processes. Benefits may include improved texture, enhanced hydration, increased elasticity, stronger barrier function and healthier-looking skin, particularly in delicate areas such as around the eyes.

Rather than creating an immediate or dramatic change, results develop gradually over time. Patients often tell us their skin looks fresher, stronger and more radiant, without appearing obviously treated. This natural approach to rejuvenation is one of the main reasons polynucleotides have become so popular in modern aesthetic medicine.

Polynucleotides Vs Skin Boosters

At Dr Liesel Holler, polynucleotides are often considered alongside other injectable skin quality treatments such as Skinvive®, Profhilo® and Sunekos®. While all of these treatments aim to improve the appearance and health of the skin, they work in different ways. Skinvive® and Profhilo® focus heavily on hydration and skin quality, while Sunekos® combines hyaluronic acid with amino acids to support collagen and elastin production. 

Polynucleotides take a more regenerative approach, helping to stimulate cellular repair and tissue renewal.

Can Polynucleotides Be Combined With Other Treatments?

Modern aesthetic medicine is increasingly moving towards combination treatments because skin ageing is rarely caused by a single factor.

At Dr Liesel Holler, polynucleotides are frequently incorporated into broader regenerative treatment plans. Depending on the patient’s concerns, they may be combined with:

Microneedling

Microneedling stimulates controlled collagen production through tiny micro-injuries within the skin. When combined with polynucleotides, the skin receives both regenerative stimulation and biological support for repair. This can be particularly helpful for patients with acne scarring or textural concerns.

MCT Exosomes

MCT Exosomes are becoming increasingly popular among patients seeking advanced regenerative treatments. Combining MCT Exosomes with polynucleotides can help support skin renewal, improve texture and enhance overall skin quality.

Skin Tightening And Energy-Based Treatments

Patients addressing skin laxity may benefit from combining regenerative injectables with energy-based treatments designed to stimulate collagen at deeper levels. In more advanced cases, we would normally look at how multiple treatments can work together rather than relying on a single intervention.

What Happens During A Polynucleotide Treatment?

Polynucleotide treatment is usually straightforward, with minimal downtime, but it should always begin with a proper consultation. This allows your practitioner to assess your skin quality, treatment goals and whether polynucleotides are the right option for you.

Step 1: Consultation And Skin Assessment

Before treatment, your skin is assessed carefully to decide where polynucleotides will be most beneficial. Common treatment areas include the under-eyes, face, neck, décolletage and hands.

Step 2: Treatment Planning

Polynucleotides are not usually a one-off treatment. Most patients need a course of two to four sessions, spaced several weeks apart. The exact number depends on your age, skin quality, treatment area, degree of ageing or damage, and long-term goals.

Step 3: The Treatment Itself

The polynucleotide product is placed into the skin using a series of small injections. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, and numbing can be used where appropriate to improve comfort.

Step 4: After Treatment

It is normal to notice mild swelling, small bumps or injection marks immediately afterwards. These usually settle quickly, and most patients can return to normal daily activities soon after treatment.

Step 5: Results And Maintenance

Unlike dermal fillers, polynucleotides do not create instant volume. They work gradually by stimulating repair, collagen production and tissue remodelling. Some patients notice improved hydration and skin quality within a few weeks, but results continue to develop over several months.

Once the initial course is complete, maintenance treatments may be recommended to support ongoing collagen production and long-term skin health.

Why Have Polynucleotides Become So Popular?

The growing popularity of polynucleotides reflects a wider shift in aesthetic medicine. Patients are increasingly seeking treatments that improve skin health rather than dramatically changing facial appearance. There is greater interest in prevention, regeneration and supporting the skin’s natural function.

Polynucleotides fit perfectly within this philosophy. They allow us to focus on improving the condition of the skin itself, helping patients achieve healthier, stronger and more resilient skin over time.

As our understanding of ageing continues to evolve, regenerative treatments such as polynucleotides, exosomes and advanced collagen-stimulating procedures are likely to play an even larger role in aesthetic treatment planning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Polynucleotides

Are polynucleotides safe?

Yes. Polynucleotides have been used in regenerative medicine for many years and undergo extensive purification before use in aesthetic treatments.

Do polynucleotides hurt?

Most patients find treatment very manageable. Topical numbing can be used where appropriate to improve comfort.

Can polynucleotides treat under-eye wrinkles?

Yes. The delicate under-eye area is one of the most popular treatment areas for polynucleotides because they can help improve skin quality, hydration and crepey texture.

Are polynucleotides the same as dermal fillers?

No. Dermal fillers primarily restore volume and structure. Polynucleotides focus on skin regeneration and tissue repair.

Can polynucleotides help acne scars?

They can form part of an acne scar treatment plan, particularly when combined with treatments such as microneedling and regenerative therapies.

How long do polynucleotide results last?

Results vary between individuals, but maintenance treatments are typically recommended to support ongoing collagen production and skin health.

Considering Polynucleotides In Chislehurst Or Fitzrovia, London?

If you’re curious about whether polynucleotides could help improve your skin quality, the first step is a personalised consultation.

At Dr Liesel Holler, every treatment plan is tailored to the individual. We assess your skin health, ageing patterns, lifestyle factors and long-term goals before recommending the most appropriate approach. In some cases, polynucleotides may be ideal as a standalone treatment. In others, combining them with MCT Exosomes or microneedling may deliver more comprehensive results.

To learn more about regenerative skin treatments, book a consultation at our Chislehurst or Fitzrovia, London  locations and discover which approach is best suited to your skin.