Polynucleotides are not a filler. They add nothing to the shape of your face. They are aimed at the quality of the skin itself, which is a slower and quieter kind of change.
What it is
Polynucleotides are purified chains of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA, prepared for injection. They are placed in small amounts just under the surface of the skin.
Rather than adding volume, they are intended to support the skin's own repair activity and hydration over time. The change is gradual, and it is about texture and quality rather than shape.
They are usually given as a course, typically three sessions spaced four to six weeks apart, because the effect builds rather than arriving all at once.
The under-eye area is one of the more common reasons people ask about them, because it is thin, delicate skin where filler is often not the right answer.
Who it suits, and who it does not
It may suit you if
- Your skin looks tired, crepey or dull rather than deflated.
- You are interested in the under-eye area but do not want filler there.
- You are willing to commit to a course and to wait for a gradual change.
- You are in good general health, and not pregnant or breastfeeding.
It is not for you if
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You have an active skin infection or inflammation in the area.
- You have a known allergy to fish. Most polynucleotide products are derived from purified fish DNA, so this matters and we will discuss it.
- You want an immediate, visible change. This is not that treatment.
- What is actually bothering you is volume loss or shadowing that a different approach would address better. I will tell you if that is the case.
At the consultation
- We look at your skin closely and talk about what you are hoping will change.
- I take a full medical history, including any allergies, and specifically ask about fish allergy.
- We discuss honestly whether polynucleotides are the right tool, or whether something else suits your concern better.
- We agree the area, the number of sessions and the cost, with a minimum of 72 hours before the first treatment.
Read more about what happens at a consultation.
On the day
- The area is cleansed and numbing cream applied if you would like it.
- Small amounts are placed just under the skin with a very fine needle across the treatment area.
- A session usually takes around 30 minutes including preparation.
- Small raised bumps are normal immediately afterwards and usually settle within a few hours to a day.
Aftercare and recovery
- Keep the area clean and leave makeup off for the rest of the day.
- Skip strenuous exercise, alcohol, saunas, steam rooms and very hot environments for 24 hours.
- Try not to press, rub or massage the area unless you have been told to.
- Some swelling, tenderness or small bruises are normal and settle over a few days.
- Small bumps at the injection points are expected and settle quickly.
- Results build gradually over the course, so expect to notice change between sessions rather than on the day.
You are not left on your own afterwards. If anything does not feel right (pain that is unusual or increasing, significant colour changes in the skin, or anything that simply worries you), contact me straight away rather than waiting. Being able to reach the medical professional who treated you is the whole point of being medically led.
This is general guidance, not personal medical advice. The aftercare instructions you are given at your own appointment always come first.
Pricing
- Under-eye£100
- Under-eye (course of 3)£270
- Full face£140
- Full face (course of 3)£375
A course is usually recommended, spaced four to six weeks apart. Prices are a guide and confirmed at your consultation.
Common questions
Are polynucleotides the same as filler?
No. Filler is a gel that adds volume and changes shape. Polynucleotides add no volume. They are aimed at the condition of the skin itself, and the change is gradual.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually three, spaced four to six weeks apart. Some people have a maintenance session later. We agree this at your consultation rather than in advance.
When will I see a difference?
Gradually, over the course, rather than on the day. Most people notice change between the second and third sessions. It is a slow treatment by design.
Can they be used under the eyes?
Yes, and it is one of the more common reasons people ask about them. The under-eye is thin, delicate skin where adding filler is often not the right answer.
What are they made from?
Purified chains of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA. Most products used in the UK are derived from purified fish DNA, which is why a fish allergy matters and why I ask about it.
Is there any downtime?
Very little. You may have small raised bumps at the injection points for a few hours, and occasionally a small bruise. Most people carry on as normal the same day.
Can I have them alongside other treatments?
Often, yes, but sequencing and spacing matter. We plan the order at your consultation rather than combining things on the day.
Think this might be right for you?
Every treatment begins with a face-to-face consultation. Prices are a guide and confirmed at that appointment.