Polynucleotides

What are polynucleotides and how do they work?

Polynucleotides (PN) and polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) are DNA chains extracted from salmon or trout, purified and biocompatible with the human body. In the skin they support cell repair, encourage collagen and elastin production and bind water; they also have soothing, antioxidant effects. Unlike a dermal filler, they do not fill lines or add volume; the aim is better skin quality. They are often used for thin, sensitive skin such as under the eyes, and after laser or microneedling (at least two weeks later). Polynucleotides belong to the wider group of biostimulation treatments.

Polynucleotide treatments at Melior Clinics

• HH PDRN biostimulation – PDRN for the face and neck, including sensitive skin.
• HP Cell Vitaran II – polynucleotides for the face, neck and around the mouth, including sun-damaged and acne-scarred skin.
• HP Cell Vitaran I for the eye area – polynucleotides for the thin skin under and around the eyes.
• Price list – current prices for all treatments.

What happens during the treatment?

At the consultation the specialist assesses your skin, asks about allergies (especially to fish), illnesses and medication, and draws up a plan. After cleansing and, if needed, numbing cream, the product is placed in the upper skin layers with very fine needles or a micro-cannula. A session takes from about 40 minutes to an hour. A course is usually advised: 2–3 sessions for HP Cell Vitaran (3–4 weeks apart around the eyes) and 3–4 sessions 2–3 weeks apart for HH PDRN, then maintenance every 3–6 months.

Who should not have it?

Polynucleotides and PDRN are usually not used in case of:

• allergy to fish, fish proteins or any other ingredient;
• pregnancy or breastfeeding;
• autoimmune disease;
• acute infection, inflammation, active cold sores or fever;
• blood clotting disorders or use of blood thinners;
• uncontrolled diabetes or another chronic illness in an active phase;
• a recent invasive procedure such as laser or a chemical peel.

The final decision is made by the specialist at the consultation.

After the treatment

Mild redness, swelling and needle marks are common and usually settle within 1–3 days; a small bruise is rare. Swelling may be more visible on the thin skin around the eyes. For the first 24 hours make-up is not advised, and the area should not be touched or rubbed. Sauna, hot baths, intense exercise and alcohol are best avoided for 48 hours. For seven days, direct sun and sunbeds are avoided and SPF 50 is used, even on cloudy days.

Frequently asked questions

Can polynucleotides be used under the eyes?

Yes: HP Cell Vitaran I is designed for this area. It aims to hydrate and strengthen thin skin and make the eyes look less tired. How dark circles and puffiness change depends on their cause, for example genetics or fluid retention.

Polynucleotides vs skin boosters: what is the difference?

Hyaluronic acid skin boosters (biorevitalisation) mainly hydrate the skin. Polynucleotides focus on repair and strength but also hydrate. They can be combined on the specialist's advice.

When will I see results and how long do they last?

Skin often looks fresher and more hydrated within a few days, with more visible change over 2–3 weeks. After a course, results typically last 3–6 months, depending on skin and lifestyle.

Does it hurt?

Most patients describe light pricking. Very fine needles or a micro-cannula are used, with numbing cream if needed.

The service is provided by Melior Clinics (Star Company OÜ, Estonian Health Board licence L04198), Liivalaia 53, Tallinn, 5th floor of the Stockmann department store.