Polynucleotides

What they are

Polynucleotides are purified DNA fragments, derived from salmon or trout, prepared as an injectable gel. Rather than filling space, they act on the skin’s own repair processes — improving hydration, elasticity and the condition of the tissue itself.

They are used across the face, in the under-eye area, and on the neck and décolletage. The under-eye is a common indication precisely because it is a region where filler frequently produces poor results.

When they are the right choice

Polynucleotides suit crepey texture, thin skin, dullness and poor elasticity. They are often the better option under the eyes, where the skin is thin and filler can cause lasting puffiness, a bluish tinge from light scattering, or fluid retention that is difficult to correct.

They will not replace lost volume or provide structural support. Where you need structure, filler is the appropriate tool and you will be told so.

The course

Treatment is usually a short course of sessions a few weeks apart, with maintenance thereafter. Improvement is gradual and cumulative rather than immediate, which suits patients wanting a change that is not conspicuous.

Small volumes are injected superficially with a fine needle. Expect small bumps that settle within hours, and possible bruising.

The evidence base

Polynucleotides are newer than filler or botulinum toxin, and the published evidence is correspondingly less mature. Early clinical results are encouraging and the safety profile appears favourable, but you should hear that clearly rather than be told it is proven beyond what the literature supports.

Risks and limitations

No treatment is without risk, and you are entitled to the full picture before you decide rather than a summary afterwards. These are discussed with you individually at consultation, in the context of your own history.

• Bruising and swelling at injection sites, particularly under the eyes
• Small temporary lumps immediately after treatment
• Tenderness for a day or two
• Infection, uncommon
• Not suitable if you have a fish allergy
• A less mature evidence base than longer-established injectables
• Gradual results that some patients find too subtle

Where you would be seen

Assessment and treatment are available at CLNQ Manchester at Deansgate Square in the city centre, and at CLNQ Knutsford on King Street in Cheshire — convenient for patients across Greater Manchester, Altrincham, Hale, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge and Macclesfield.

Both sites hold hyaluronidase on the premises with a written protocol for its use, which is the relevant question to ask any clinic offering filler. Complications arising from treatment performed elsewhere in the North West are also assessed here.

• CLNQ Manchester — Deansgate Square 11 Owen Street, Manchester M15 4YB Ground floor of the South Tower at Deansgate Square, Manchester city centre.
• CLNQ Knutsford — Cheshire 49-51 King Street, Knutsford WA16 6DX King Street, Knutsford, serving Cheshire and the surrounding area.

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