You have heard about polynucleotides — perhaps as "Salmon DNA" on TikTok, perhaps from a friend who was enthusiastic about her treatment. You have already done some basic research and are now wondering: is it really as good as everyone claims? And if so — why?
What sets polynucleotides apart from other treatments
Most skin treatments work on a simple principle: they introduce something from outside into the skin — hyaluronic acid for volume, biostimulators for collagen production. Polynucleotides (more precisely: PDRN, polydeoxyribonucleotides) take a different approach. They deliver DNA fragments that serve as building blocks for cellular repair.
The crucial difference: PDRN activates the adenosine A2A receptor on your fibroblasts. That sounds technical, but it has a very concrete effect — it reduces inflammatory processes, promotes blood circulation, and stimulates the cells to produce more collagen and elastin. The skin essentially repairs itself, rather than just being filled.
What convinced me in my practice: polynucleotides are one of the few products I can confidently use on the delicate under-eye area. Where traditional fillers often react unpredictably, PDRN products work reliably and are very well tolerated.
What the research actually shows
PDRN is not a new molecule — polynucleotides have been used in wound healing and orthopaedics for over 20 years. The aesthetic application is more recent, but the evidence base is growing:
- Clinical studies show a significant improvement in skin elasticity and hydration after 2–3 sessions. Based on experience, the effects last 6–12 months.
- Histological examinations confirm a measurable increase in type I collagen production and a reduction in oxidative stress in the treated skin.
- Comparative studies between PDRN and hyaluronic acid skinboosters suggest that PDRN can deliver comparable to superior results for skin quality and elasticity — through a different mechanism of action.
To be honest: the evidence is promising, but not yet as extensive as for hyaluronic acid. Large randomised controlled trials with long-term data are still pending. What we have is a solid foundation of smaller studies and extensive clinical experience — and that aligns with what I see in my practice.
Who polynucleotides are suited for — and who they are not
PDRN is particularly well suited for patients who do not want a change in volume, but rather a fundamental improvement in skin quality:
- Tired, dull skin — PDRN improves microcirculation and gives the skin a more vital appearance
- Fine lines and crepey skin — especially on the neck and decolletage, where traditional fillers are not ideal
- Dark circles — one of the most convincing applications, because the under-eye area is so delicate
- As a complement to other treatments — PDRN combines very well with Profhilo or Radiesse
The treatment is less suitable if you expect an immediately visible result. PDRN works over weeks — the skin changes gradually. If you want to walk out of one session and see a difference straight away, hyaluronic acid fillers are the better option. If you have a fish allergy, caution is advised, as most PDRN products are derived from salmon.
Frequently asked questions about polynucleotides
Are polynucleotides the same as "Salmon DNA"?
Essentially, yes. "Salmon DNA" is the popular term that spread through social media. The medically correct term is PDRN — polydeoxyribonucleotides, extracted from salmon. The DNA structure is similar across all vertebrates, which is why the product is highly biocompatible.
Filler or polynucleotides for dark circles — which is better?
This is a question I hear constantly in my practice, and the honest answer is: it depends on what exactly the problem is. A tear trough — a genuine volume depression under the eye — can be specifically filled with hyaluronic acid filler. The result is immediately visible. However, the under-eye area is demanding. Filler can swell, shift, or shimmer through with a bluish hue (Tyndall effect) there, especially with thin skin.
Polynucleotides work differently. They do not fill anything; instead, they improve the skin quality from within: better circulation, less oxidative stress, firmer structure. If dark circles are primarily caused by thin, dull skin — and not by a deep hollow — PDRN is often the better choice. Less risk, a more natural result, and the skin looks more vital overall.
In many cases, I recommend a combination: first PDRN for skin quality, then — if needed — targeted filler for the volume correction. This gives the skin a better foundation, and the filler sits more stably. Which strategy is right for you is something I assess in a personal consultation based on your individual anatomy.
How does PDRN differ from hyaluronic acid in general?
Beyond the under-eye area, the general principle holds: hyaluronic acid primarily binds water and provides volume or moisture. PDRN works at the cellular level — it stimulates cell regeneration, reduces inflammation, and promotes the body's own collagen production. Both complement each other excellently and can be meaningfully combined in many cases.
How many sessions are needed?
I typically recommend 2–4 sessions at intervals of 2–4 weeks. Initial improvements often appear after the second session, with the full result visible after 4–6 weeks. Touch-ups every 6–12 months maintain the result.
Are there side effects?
PDRN is very well tolerated. Mild redness or swelling at the injection sites typically subsides within 24–48 hours. Allergic reactions are extremely rare but should be discussed if you have a known fish allergy.
What does a polynucleotide treatment cost?
A single session starts from 399 euros. For a series of treatments, we offer package pricing. The exact costs are discussed in your individual consultation, as they depend on the scope of treatment.
Polynucleotides are not a miracle cure — but they are one of the most interesting developments in regenerative aesthetics. If you are wondering whether PDRN might be right for your skin, we are happy to discuss it in a personal consultation.
