Polynucleotides: Effects, Science & Why They Visibly Transform the Skin
Polynucleotides are among the most effective innovations in modern aesthetic medicine. While many treatments primarily have a superficial effect, polynucleotides target precisely where skin quality is created: deep in the dermis, in the cells that keep our skin firm, resilient, and healthy. They are considered regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-strengthening—and they change not only the appearance but also the structure of the skin. But how exactly do polynucleotides work, and why have they been so celebrated in recent years?
The basics: What exactly are polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides (PN or PDRN) are highly pure DNA fragments that are extracted from fish milk and sterilized in a complex process. The result is a substance that is biocompatible, well tolerated, and extremely effective. Their goal is not to create volume or fill in wrinkles, but to regenerate the skin and restore it to a state in which it can stabilize and renew itself. Polynucleotides owe this effect to their influence on cellular repair processes. They support the body's own healing abilities and have not only a cosmetic but also a biological effect—an important difference from classic fillers.
Polynucleotides have a profound effect on cell regeneration and tissue repair—a real game changer for skin quality.
How do polynucleotides work? — The most important mechanisms
The effect of polynucleotides is based on a series of mechanisms that interact and reinforce each other. Central to this is their ability to stimulate fibroblasts—the cells that produce collagen, elastin, and other structural proteins. When these cells work more actively, the density, firmness, and elasticity of the skin visibly improve. Polynucleotides also increase microcirculation. More oxygen and nutrients reach the tissue, which further promotes regeneration. At the same time, they have an anti-inflammatory effect, which is a huge relief, especially for sensitive or reactive skin types. People with rosacea, thin skin, or post-inflammatory irritation often report calmer, more stable skin after just a few treatments. Another crucial aspect is the ability of polynucleotides to bind water and distribute it throughout the skin. They do not create noticeable fullness, but rather deep, even hydration that strengthens the skin barrier and reduces dryness lines. This results in that typical, healthy, fine-pored glow that is perceived as very natural.
1. Stimulation of fibroblasts
Fibroblasts are the cells that produce collagen and elastin. Polynucleotides activate these cells—not artificially, but regulatively. The result:
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improved collagen regeneration
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more elastic, denser skin
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finer pores and smoother surface
Depending on the protocol, structure and firmness visibly improve after 2–3 sessions.
2. Improving hydration
Polynucleotides bind water—similar to hyaluronic acid, but deeper and longer. Their structure allows them to distribute and retain water in the tissue more effectively. The effect:
Long-lasting moisture without the typical "hyaluronic glow," but rather naturally plumped, healthy skin.
3. Anti-inflammatory effect
Many skin problems are caused by silent inflammation—for example:
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rosacea
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acne
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dermatitis
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weakened skin barrier
Polynucleotides measurably reduce this inflammatory activity. The result: calmer, more stable skin.
4. DNA repair & protection against oxidative stress
Polynucleotides support cellular repair mechanisms and protect against damage caused by free radicals.
Polynucleotides act like a repair program for stressed skin—they stabilize, soothe, and renew from within.
5. Improvement of microcirculation
Improved local blood circulation provides the skin with:
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more oxygen
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more nutrients
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faster recovery
This explains the "healthy skin effect" for which polynucleotides are known.
Who are polynucleotides suitable for?
Polynucleotides are suitable for almost all skin types, but people with sensitive, thinning, or structurally weakened skin benefit particularly. Fine lines, loss of structure, dark circles under the eyes, dull or dry skin, and the first signs of age-related changes respond excellently to polynucleotides.Patients who have already received a lot of hyaluronic acid and want to improve their skin quality rather than add volume will also find a natural alternative here. Polynucleotides do not have a plumping effect, but rather a regenerative one—an approach that can be harmoniously integrated into any modern, minimally invasive treatment.
Particularly suitable for:
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thinning, delicate skin
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first wrinkles or loss of structure
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tired, dull-looking skin
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dark circles under the eyes
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sensitive or inflamed skin
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Acne scars or lines
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Skin that has already received a lot of hyaluronic acid and needs "quality rather than quantity"
They are considered extremely well tolerated—even by those with sensitive or reactive skin.
Treatment procedure
Treatment with polynucleotides usually takes 20–30 minutes and is administered via microinjections.
Typical procedure:
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Cleaning & disinfection
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optional: anesthetic cream
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Microinjections (area technique or focus areas)
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soothing final treatment
Slight swelling or small welts are normal and subside quickly.
Recommended protocol:
→ 3 treatments at intervals of 2–3 weeks, followed by 1 refresher treatment every 4–6 months.
Results: When will you see the effects?
The effect builds up gradually, but develops very sustainably. Many patients notice a calmer complexion and more radiance after just one to two weeks. After four to six weeks, finer textures, smoother lines, and a more even surface become apparent. The strongest structural effects develop within two to three months and last for many months with regular refreshers. The recommended protocol consists of three sessions at intervals of two to three weeks. After that, a refresher every four to six months is sufficient to keep the regenerative activity stable.
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After 1–2 weeks: more glow, calmer skin
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After 4–6 weeks: finer texture, fewer wrinkles
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After 2–3 months: significantly more density and firmness
The results are building slowly but steadily.
Polynucleotides restore the skin to its ideal condition—not artificially, but biologically.
Side effects & safety
Polynucleotides are considered extremely safe. As they are biocompatible, side effects are usually very mild and short-lived—minor swelling after microinjections, localized redness, or minimal bruising are the most common reactions. For sensitive or reactive skin types, polynucleotides are among the most tolerable options in aesthetic medicine. Serious side effects are extremely rare, as the substance is biocompatible and anti-inflammatory.
Conclusion: Polynucleotides are one of the best treatments for genuine skin quality.
Polynucleotides are among the few treatments that not only improve the appearance of the skin, but also strengthen its function. They soothe, hydrate, repair, and stimulate natural regeneration. This makes them suitable for both early prevention and visible detail improvements — and they offer a solution for anyone who wants to do something for their skin in a natural, subtle, yet profound way.
Their effect is not immediate, but rather a long-term improvement that restores the skin to a condition in which it appears more resilient, smoother, and more radiant.
