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Close-up of a clinician administering a polynucleotide injection near the brow.
skin Treatment

Polynucleotides

Polynucleotide injections in London at Montrose are a consultant-led, non-surgical treatment designed to support skin regeneration, hydration, texture and elasticity without primarily adding facial volume. Treatment is available for the face, neck and under-eye or tear-trough skin following an individual consultation. Sessions take around 30–45 minutes and prices start from £500.

This page has been reviewed by:

Position

Co-Founder & Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

GMC

7071809

Date of review

24TH AUGUST 2026

Close-up of a clinician administering a polynucleotide injection near the brow.

An Overview

Objective

Enhanced skin regeneration and improved texture and tone

Time

30 - 45 minutes

Areas

Face, neck, tear trough

Recovery

1 - 2 days

Frequency

2-4 sessions, 3-4 weeks apart, with maintenance treatments every 6 - 12 months

Price

From £500

More about this treatment

Polynucleotide injections introduce natural DNA fragments into the skin to trigger cell repair and regeneration. The fragments activate receptors on fibroblast cells, prompting the tissue to heal itself, which improves hydration, elasticity, and overall skin quality. Montrose London delivers the treatment as a series of small injections using fine needles or cannulas, targeting specific areas and tailoring the plan to each patient’s aesthetic goals.

Dermal fillers add volume. Polynucleotide injections work on the skin’s intrinsic properties instead, stimulating collagen and elastin production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and build lasting elasticity. Montrose London’s polynucleotides are derived from salmon DNA, a biocompatible material that suits sensitive skin and carries a low risk of allergic reaction.

The treatment extends beyond facial rejuvenation. Patients use it to reduce dark circles and fine lines under the eyes, and to treat acne scars through the same regenerative mechanism. As a non-surgical option it carries minimal downtime and produces results that last longer than many alternative treatments.

At Montrose London, each treatment plan follows a consultation and aims for gradual, natural-looking improvement rather than immediate volume replacement. Results and the number of sessions required vary by patient.

What Does the Current Clinical Evidence Say?

Published evidence is promising but still developing. A 2025 systematic review identified nine low or moderate-quality studies involving 219 patients. It reported improvements in wrinkles, skin texture and elasticity in several studies, while noting variation in products, injection techniques and treatment areas and calling for higher-quality trials. Results therefore vary, and evidence for one product or protocol should not automatically be applied to another. Clinical review: Lampridou et al. (2025)

What Results Are Typically Achieved to Improve Skin Texture

Polynucleotide injections offer improvements in skin texture, hydration, and overall tone. Patients can expect to see a reduction in fine lines and an overall more youthful and refreshed appearance. Polynucleotides are known to stimulate collagen production, further enhancing skin elasticity and firmness. Notably, patients experience improved skin elasticity, with studies showing an average increase by 22% within a short timeframe. The results typically last between 6 to 12 months, depending on individual factors such as metabolism and lifestyle.

This innovative treatment is particularly beneficial for those seeking to address various skin concerns without undergoing invasive procedures. By promoting skin regeneration and improving skin elasticity, polynucleotide injections can effectively tackle issues like sagging skin, dull skin, and visible signs of ageing. The treatment’s ability to enhance skin hydration and stimulate collagen and elastin production contributes to improved skin quality and a more radiant complexion.

Moreover, the treatment’s versatility extends to sensitive skin types, providing a safe and effective solution with minimal risk of allergic reactions. Patients often report not only an improvement in their skin’s appearance but also in its overall health and resilience. With the added benefit of minimal downtime, polynucleotide injections are becoming a preferred choice for those looking to maintain a youthful look and improve skin texture through advanced aesthetic treatments.

Preparing for your treatment

Prior to arrival at Montrose

1 week prior: Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements like vitamin E and fish oil to reduce the risk of bruising, if advisable by your doctor. Do not stop any prescribed medicine unless the clinician who prescribed it has advised you to do so. Tell your Montrose practitioner about all prescribed medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements before treatment.

3 days prior: Minimise alcohol and caffeine consumption to help prevent swelling and bruising.

On arrival at Montrose

Your practitioner will remove any makeup, discuss your aesthetic goals, review your medical history, and examine the treatment areas. Photos may be taken for your medical records.

During the treatment

When numbing cream is required, this will be applied to the treatment area to minimise discomfort. Injectable treatments, such as polynucleotide injections, will then be administered using fine needles or cannulas. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during the injections. The procedure typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes.

Post Treatment Advice

  • 24 hours: Avoid touching, massaging, or applying pressure to the treated areas.
  • 48 hours: Refrain from strenuous exercise, saunas, hot baths, and jacuzzis. Avoid excessive sun or heat exposure.
  • 1 week: Avoid facial treatments, massages, or other aesthetic procedures.
  • Ongoing: Use an ice pack to reduce swelling and apply arnica cream if bruising occurs. Stay hydrated and follow any additional aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner.
  • When to contact Montrose: Please contact the clinic if you experience symptoms that are severe, worsening, persistent or otherwise unexpected after treatment. Follow the individual aftercare and emergency guidance supplied by your practitioner.

Questions you may have

Polynucleotide injections may suit adults seeking gradual improvements in skin quality, hydration, texture and firmness without relying primarily on volumising filler. Suitable candidates include individuals looking to enhance skin regeneration, improve texture, and achieve a firmer skin appearance. Polynucleotide injections are effective for those with mild to moderate signs of ageing or those seeking non-surgical skin improvement. The cell regeneration stimulated by polynucleotide treatment can also reduce the appearance of acne scars and stretch marks by enhancing collagen and elastin production, making it a versatile option for various skin concerns.

Polynucleotide treatment is not suitable for everyone, and eligibility is decided during a medical consultation. Individuals with severe allergies, active skin infections, or certain autoimmune conditions should avoid polynucleotide injections. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not undergo polynucleotide treatments due to safety concerns. It is essential to discuss your medical history with a practitioner to determine suitability.

Yes. Aftercare is important because the skin has been injected and may be temporarily sensitive. Proper skincare and sun protection are essential to optimise and prolong the benefits of polynucleotide injections. Your practitioner will provide a full aftercare protocol following your treatment.

Expected effects are usually temporary and can include redness, swelling, tenderness, small raised bumps and bruising at injection sites. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and mild discomfort at the injection sites. Bruising may also occur. These effects typically subside within a few days. Adhering to post-treatment care guidelines helps minimise these effects and promotes optimal healing.

Neither treatment is universally better: Profhilo and polynucleotides are selected for different skin concerns and may also be used within a broader treatment plan. When considering aesthetic treatments to enhance skin quality, both Profhilo and polynucleotide treatments offer unique benefits. Profhilo is a revolutionary injectable treatment that primarily focuses on hydrating the skin and stimulating collagen and elastin production through high concentrations of hyaluronic acid. This treatment is known for its ability to improve skin texture and elasticity, providing a natural and youthful glow.

On the other hand, polynucleotide treatments focus on skin regeneration by introducing natural DNA fragments that stimulate cell repair and rejuvenation. This innovative treatment enhances skin hydration, elasticity, and overall skin quality by promoting collagen production. Polynucleotides are especially effective for treating various skin concerns such as fine lines, sagging skin, and acne scars.

In addition to these treatments, skin boosters are another effective option for skin rejuvenation. Skin boosters are specialised injectable treatments that enhance skin rejuvenation by stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. They are particularly effective in boosting hydration and providing anti-aging benefits. Unlike Profhilo, which uses high concentrations of hyaluronic acid, skin boosters have unique compositions and mechanisms of action that set them apart. They can be compared to polynucleotides in their ability to promote skin regeneration, but they also offer distinct advantages in terms of hydration and anti-aging effects.

While Profhilo excels in delivering intense hydration and improving skin texture, polynucleotide treatments offer a broader scope of benefits, including tissue repair and regeneration. Skin boosters, meanwhile, provide a balanced approach by enhancing both hydration and collagen production. The choice between Profhilo, polynucleotides, and skin boosters depends on individual skin concerns and desired outcomes. For those seeking to enhance skin hydration and elasticity, Profhilo may be the preferred option. However, if the goal is to address a wider range of skin issues and promote visible skin regeneration, polynucleotide treatments or skin boosters could be more suitable.

Ultimately, all these treatments are effective in their own right, and the decision should be made in consultation with a qualified practitioner who can assess individual needs and recommend the best approach for achieving optimal skin health and rejuvenation.

Polynucleotides are purified chains of nucleotides, the structural units found in DNA and RNA; aesthetic formulations are commonly derived from highly purified fish DNA. Polynucleotides are complex molecules composed of long chains of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Each nucleotide consists of three components: a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sequence of these nitrogenous bases encodes genetic information, playing a crucial role in cellular functions and biological processes. In the context of polynucleotide treatments, these molecules are often derived from natural sources, such as salmon DNA, ensuring biocompatibility and reducing the risk of adverse reactions. Polynucleotides are renowned for their ability to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, making them highly effective in aesthetic treatments aimed at improving skin texture, elasticity, and overall quality. By leveraging the natural properties of polynucleotides, these treatments offer a powerful tool for addressing various skin concerns, promoting collagen production, and enhancing skin hydration and tone.

A typical Montrose treatment course involves 2 to 4 sessions spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart, followed by maintenance where appropriate. The number of polynucleotide treatment sessions required can vary depending on individual skin concerns and the desired outcomes. Typically, a series of 2 to 4 sessions is recommended to achieve optimal results. Each session is spaced approximately 3 to 4 weeks apart to allow the skin to fully respond and regenerate between treatments.

During the initial consultation, your practitioner will assess your skin’s condition and discuss your aesthetic goals to determine the most suitable treatment regimen. Some individuals may notice improvements after the first session, but for long-lasting and more pronounced results, completing the full course of recommended sessions is often necessary.

After the initial series of treatments, maintenance sessions may be advised every 6 to 12 months to sustain the benefits and continue enhancing skin quality. These follow-up sessions help in maintaining the improved skin texture, elasticity, and overall health achieved through polynucleotide treatments. As with any injectable treatment, individual responses can vary, so it’s important to have realistic expectations and follow your practitioner’s guidance for the best outcomes.

Results are gradual. Some patients notice early changes, while the intended outcome is usually assessed across the full 2-to-4-session course. Most patients experience noticeable changes in their skin’s appearance after 2 to 4 sessions, with each session spaced approximately 3 to 4 weeks apart. These sessions allow the skin to fully respond and regenerate, optimising the benefits of the treatment. While some individuals may observe early improvements, achieving the full spectrum of desired outcomes often requires completing the entire treatment regimen.

It’s important to note that individual responses to polynucleotide treatments can differ, influenced by factors such as age, skin condition, and lifestyle. Patients are encouraged to maintain realistic expectations and follow the aftercare instructions provided by their practitioner to maximise results. Regular follow-up sessions may be recommended to sustain the improvements and continue enhancing overall skin health and quality. By adhering to the prescribed treatment plan, patients can enjoy a more youthful, radiant complexion with improved skin texture and elasticity over time.

Polynucleotides and dermal fillers serve different purposes: fillers primarily replace or reshape volume, while polynucleotides focus on skin quality and regeneration. When considering aesthetic treatments, both polynucleotides treatment and dermal fillers have their distinct advantages, catering to different skin concerns and desired outcomes. Dermal fillers primarily focus on adding volume to specific areas of the face, such as the cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds. They are highly effective in contouring and reshaping facial features, providing immediate results that enhance facial symmetry and fullness.

On the other hand, polynucleotides treatment offers a more holistic approach to skin rejuvenation. By introducing natural DNA fragments into the skin, polynucleotides stimulate cellular repair and regeneration, promoting improved skin texture, elasticity, and overall quality. This innovative treatment enhances skin hydration, stimulates collagen and elastin production, and addresses various skin concerns such as fine lines, sagging skin, and acne scars.

While dermal fillers deliver quick and visible changes in facial volume, polynucleotides treatment focuses on long-term skin health and regeneration. The choice between the two largely depends on individual goals. For those seeking immediate volume enhancement, fillers may be the preferred option. However, if the aim is to improve skin quality and achieve a more youthful appearance over time, polynucleotides treatment could be more suitable.

Ultimately, both treatments can complement each other when combined strategically in a comprehensive aesthetic plan. Consulting with a qualified practitioner is essential to determine the best approach based on personal needs and expectations, ensuring optimal results and satisfaction with the chosen treatment.

Most patients describe polynucleotide injections as mild to moderately uncomfortable rather than severely painful. Polynucleotide treatments are generally well-tolerated by most patients, with minimal discomfort reported during the procedure. The use of fine needles or cannulas helps to reduce any potential pain, and numbing cream is often applied to the treatment area to further enhance patient comfort. Patients may experience a slight pinch or pressure during the injections, but this sensation is usually brief and manageable.

The procedure is designed to be minimally invasive, and most individuals find the process to be quite tolerable. The level of discomfort can vary depending on individual pain thresholds, the specific area being treated, and the technique used by the practitioner. However, any discomfort experienced during the treatment is typically short-lived.

Post-treatment, some patients may experience mild redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection sites, but these side effects are usually temporary and subside within a few days. Following the aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner can help minimise these effects and ensure a smooth recovery.

Not in the same way. Dermal fillers are selected primarily to restore or reshape volume and contour. Polynucleotide injections are used mainly to support skin quality, hydration and regenerative processes. Any short-term fullness immediately after treatment may reflect the injected product and swelling rather than the structural volume change expected from filler.

They may improve aspects of under-eye skin quality, including fine lines, crepey texture and hydration, but they do not remove true fat-pad bags. Dark circles can result from pigmentation, visible blood vessels, shadowing, thin skin or volume loss, so a clinical assessment is needed to identify the cause and the most appropriate treatment.

The terms are related but should not automatically be treated as identical. Polynucleotides (PN) are chains of nucleotides, while polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) refers to purified DNA fragments within a defined molecular-weight range. The composition, concentration and intended use depend on the specific product selected by the practitioner.

Polynucleotide injections at Montrose London start from £500. The final price depends on the treatment area, product, amount required and personalised course recommended after consultation. Ask the clinic to confirm the full course cost, including any planned maintenance, before treatment begins.

No GP referral is required to request a private consultation at Montrose London. A Montrose doctor will assess your medical history, treatment area, suitability and goals before recommending whether polynucleotide injections or another option is appropriate.

What to expect

  • An in-person consultation with a doctor at Montrose London to assess your aesthetic goals.
  • A comprehensive treatment plan leveraging the expertise of your doctor and the range of services offered by Montrose London.
  • Follow-up visits to monitor the progress of treatment as needed.

Practitioners at Montrose London

Jonathan Dunne Montrose London

Dr Jonathan Dunne

Co-Founder, Medical Director & Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
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Georgina Williams Montrose London

Dr Georgina Williams

Co-Founder & Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
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Shaimaa Jamshidi Montrose London

Dr Shaimaa Jamshidi

Co-Founder Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
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Lydia Loannidi Montrose London

Dr Lydia Loannidi

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
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Anita Jatan Montrose London

Dr Anita Jatan

Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
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Jonathan Kentley Montrose London

Dr Jonathan Kentley

Consultant Dermatologist
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Sophia Opel Montrose London

Dr Sophia Opel

Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
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