Polynucleotides in injectable cosmetology: mechanism of action, indications and clinical application

What are polynucleotides

Polynucleotides (PN) are biocompatible nucleic acid fragments obtained from highly purified DNA of marine origin. In injectable cosmetology, polynucleotides are used as tissue biostimulants with a pronounced regenerative potential, aimed at restoring the structure of the dermis and improving the quality of the skin.

Polynucleotides are analogues of the physiological DNA of skin cells, due to which they have high biocompatibility and a low risk of immunological reactions.

Unlike hyaluronic acid-based drugs, polynucleotides work not as volumizers, but as bioregenerative agents that trigger tissue repair processes at the cellular level.

Mechanism of action of polynucleotides

The main effect of polynucleotides is associated with their ability to influence cellular metabolism and regenerative processes of the dermis.

Main mechanisms of action:

1. Fibroblast activation

Polynucleotides stimulate the proliferation and metabolic activity of fibroblasts, which leads to increased synthesis of:

• type I and III collagen;
• elastin;
• glycosaminoglycans.

This ensures the gradual restoration of the dermis structure.

2. Cellular DNA repair

Polynucleotides contribute to the restoration of damaged cellular DNA and stimulate tissue regeneration after:

• photodamage;
• oxidative stress;
• inflammatory processes;
• aggressive cosmetic procedures.

3. Antioxidant effect

Polynucleotides reduce the effects of free radicals and protect cellular structures from oxidative stress.

This is especially important in photoaging and chronic skin damage.

4. Restoration of the extracellular matrix (ECM)

Polynucleotides stimulate the synthesis of extracellular matrix components:

• collagen;
• elastin;
• proteoglycans.

As a result, the density of the dermis increases and the quality of the skin improves.

5. Improving tissue hydration

Polynucleotides stimulate the synthesis of endogenous hyaluronic acid and increase the ability of tissues to retain water.

This provides physiological hydration without the risk of excessive edema.

Biological effects of polynucleotides

Clinical use of polynucleotides provides:

• increasing skin density;
• improving elasticity;
• reducing fine wrinkles;
• improving skin texture;
• reducing signs of photoaging;
• reducing manifestations of dermal atrophy;
• improving hydration;
• revitalizing the skin;
• reducing signs of fatigue.

An important feature of polynucleotides is the absence of a volumizing effect, which allows them to be used in delicate areas.

Indications for use

Polynucleotides are used for:

• age-related skin changes;
• reducing the density of the dermis;
• thin atrophic skin;
• photoaging;
• dryness and dehydration;
• wrinkles;
• scars;
• stretch marks;
• impaired skin quality;
• dark circles under the eyes;
• signs of fatigue.

Areas of application

Polynucleotides can be used in most anatomical areas:

• face;
• periorbital area;
• neck;
• décolleté;
• hands;
• inner surface of the shoulder;
• abdomen;
• scars;
• striae.

Injection techniques

Most commonly used:

Papule technique

Classical biorevitalization technique with uniform distribution of the drug in the superficial layers of the dermis.

Micropapule technique

Recommended for delicate areas, especially the periorbital area.

Linear-retrograde technique

Used when working with reduced tissue density or scars.

Cannula technique

Used when working with large areas or thin skin.

Advantages of polynucleotides

High biocompatibility

Polynucleotides of marine origin have a high affinity for human skin cells.

Physiological effect

The drugs stimulate natural regeneration processes without tissue overload.

Safety

Low risk:

• fibrosis;
• edema;
• hypercorrection.

Versatility

Polynucleotides can be used:

• as monotherapy;
• in combined protocols;
• after aggressive procedures.

Combined protocols

Polynucleotides are well combined with:

• biorevitalization;
• hyaluronic acid-based fillers;
• botulinum therapy;
• hardware techniques;
• laser procedures;
• RF therapy.

The best results are observed when using polynucleotides as the basic regenerative stage of treatment.

Conclusion

Polynucleotides are a modern tool in injection cosmetology aimed at bioregeneration and restoration of the dermis at the cellular level.

Due to their high biocompatibility, physiological mechanism of action and predicted clinical results, polynucleotides occupy an important place in anti-age therapy protocols and skin quality restoration.