If you’ve been scrolling through beauty forums or following skincare influencers lately, you’ve probably heard whispers about polynucleotides – the regenerative treatment that’s quietly revolutionising how we approach skin rejuvenation. Unlike traditional fillers that add volume or Botox that freezes muscles, polynucleotides work entirely differently. They encourage your skin to heal and rebuild itself from within, creating improvements that look completely natural because they genuinely are.
At Little Foray’s Thames Ditton skin clinic, we’re excited to offer Vitaran polynucleotide treatments to our clients in Surrey and beyond who want results that enhance rather than alter their natural features. But what exactly are polynucleotides, and could they be the missing piece in your skincare puzzle?
What are polynucleotides?
Let’s start with the simple science of polynucleotides. Polynucleotides are long chains of molecules that make up DNA and RNA – essentially, the building blocks of life itself. When these are purified and used as injectable treatments (most commonly derived from salmon DNA because it’s remarkably similar to human DNA), they don’t just sit under your skin adding volume like traditional fillers.
Instead, these clever molecules act as biological messengers, encouraging your skin cells to get back to work. Think of them as a gentle wake-up call to your fibroblasts – the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. Rather than masking signs of ageing or damage, polynucleotides help rebuild your skin’s foundation from the ground up.
The result? Skin that functions better, looks healthier, and has that elusive “glow from within” that no highlighter could ever replicate!
How polynucleotides transform your skin
When polynucleotides are injected into your skin, several fascinating processes begin to unfold:
- Collagen Stimulation: Your fibroblasts receive signals to increase collagen production by up to 50%, naturally plumping and firming your skin over time.
- Enhanced Healing: The treatment activates your skin’s repair mechanisms, helping to address everything more effectively, from fine lines to repairing scarring.
- Improved Hydration: Polynucleotides boost your skin’s ability to retain moisture, creating that coveted dewy complexion.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Unlike treatments that can cause irritation, polynucleotides actually calm inflammation and sensitivity.
- Cellular Renewal: The treatment encourages healthy cell turnover, gradually improving skin texture and tone.
What happens in a polynucleotide treatment session
Each polynucleotide session at Little Foray takes approximately 20-30 minutes, making it perfect for busy people. The treatment involves a series of tiny injections placed strategically across the treatment area using ultra-fine needles.
Most clients find the procedure surprisingly comfortable – certainly much more tolerable than they expected. You might experience mild redness or slight swelling immediately afterwards, but this typically settles within hours to a couple of days. The beauty of this treatment is that there’s minimal disruption to your routine.
Results develop gradually over the following weeks as your skin begins its regeneration process. You’ll notice improvements in hydration and texture first, followed by enhanced firmness and overall radiance as new collagen develops.
Skin concerns polynucleotides can address
1. Fine lines and early signs of ageing
Polynucleotides are particularly effective for addressing fine lines and early signs of ageing by stimulating natural collagen production. Rather than freezing or filling, the treatment helps your skin regain its youthful resilience.
2. Loss of firmness and skin elasticity
As we age, our skin loses its natural bounce and firmness. Polynucleotides help restore elasticity by encouraging the production of both collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin structure and flexibility.
3. Dull, tired-looking skin
If your skin looks lacklustre despite your best skincare efforts, polynucleotides can help restore that healthy glow by improving cellular function and hydration from within.
4. Sensitive skin and rosacea
The anti-inflammatory properties of polynucleotides make them excellent for sensitive skin conditions. Many clients with rosacea find their skin becomes calmer and less reactive after treatment.
5. Acne scarring and uneven texture
By stimulating healing and cellular renewal, polynucleotides can gradually improve the appearance of acne scarring and uneven skin texture.
6. Environmental damage
Years of sun exposure, pollution, and lifestyle factors can leave skin looking damaged and aged. Polynucleotides help repair this damage at a cellular level.
Areas you can treat with polynucleotides
One of the advantages of polynucleotide treatment is its versatility. We can safely treat:
- Face: Ideal for overall skin quality improvement, targeting fine lines, loss of firmness, and dullness.
- Under-eye area: Perfect for addressing dark circles, fine lines, and crepey skin in this delicate area.
- Neck and décolletage: Often-neglected areas that show signs of ageing can benefit significantly from polynucleotide treatment.
- Hands: Restore youthful appearance to hands that often reveal our true age.
- Areas of scarring: Whether from acne, surgery, or injury, polynucleotides can help improve scar appearance.
How do polynucleotides compare to other treatments?
Understanding how polynucleotides differ from other popular treatments helps explain why they’re creating such excitement in the aesthetics world:
Polynucleotides versus dermal fillers
Fillers add volume to plump out lines and hollows, but polynucleotides actually improve skin quality and stimulate your own collagen production. The results are more natural and longer-lasting.
Polynucleotides versus anti-wrinkle injections
Botox-style treatments work by temporarily paralysing muscles to prevent expression lines. Polynucleotides work by improving skin health, so both can be used together for comprehensive results.
Polynucleotides versus skin boosters
Traditional hyaluronic acid skin boosters provide excellent hydration, but polynucleotides offer hydration plus regeneration, healing, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Polynucleotides versus skincare
Even the best topical products can only work on the surface layers of skin. Polynucleotides work deep in the dermis, where the real structural changes need to happen.
How often should you have polynucleotide treatments?
Most clients achieve optimal results with an initial course of 2-3 treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart. However, many people see improvements after just one session.
The timeline typically looks like this:
Week 1-2: You’ll notice improved hydration and a subtle glow as your skin begins responding to the treatment.
Week 4-8: Skin texture starts improving, fine lines soften, and overall skin quality becomes more apparent.
Week 8-16: Maximum results become visible as new collagen develops and skin regeneration reaches its peak.
Maintenance: Results typically last 6-12 months, with many clients choosing annual top-up treatments to maintain their improvements.
Who is polynucleotide treatment ideal for?
Polynucleotides are suitable for most people looking to improve their skin quality naturally. You might be an ideal candidate if you:
- Are noticing early signs of ageing but aren’t ready for more invasive treatments
- Have sensitive skin that reacts poorly to other aesthetic treatments
- Want to improve overall skin quality rather than address specific wrinkles
- Are looking for natural-looking results that enhance rather than change your features
- Have realistic expectations about gradual, building improvements rather than instant transformation
- Are committed to a proper skincare routine to support your results
What are the side effects of polynucleotides?
Polynucleotide treatments have an excellent safety profile with minimal side effects. The most common experiences include mild redness at injection sites (though this usually resolves within hours), slight swelling or bruising (typically minimal and short-lived) and temporary sensitivity in the treated area.
Serious complications are extremely rare when treatment is performed by qualified practitioners using high-quality products.
Who should avoid polynucleotides?
While polynucleotides are generally very safe, they may not be suitable if you:
- Have a known allergy to fish or seafood (since most polynucleotides are salmon-derived)
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have an active skin infection in the treatment area
- Have certain autoimmune conditions (we’ll discuss this during consultation)
Can you combine polynucleotides with other treatments?
One of the advantages of polynucleotide treatment is how well it works alongside other aesthetic procedures:
- With microneedling: The combination can enhance collagen stimulation and improve product penetration.
- With profhilo: Many clients benefit from alternating between these two regenerative treatments.
- With anti-wrinkle injections: Polynucleotides improve skin quality while Botox addresses dynamic lines.
- With LED light therapy: The healing light can support the regenerative processes initiated by polynucleotides.
Frequently asked questions about polynucleotides
1. How long do polynucleotide results last?
Results typically last 6-12 months, though this varies depending on your skin condition, age, lifestyle, and individual response to treatment.
2. Is polynucleotide treatment painful?
Most clients find polynucleotide injections quite comfortable. We use ultra-fine needles and can apply numbing cream if needed.
3. When will I see results from polynucleotide treatment?
You’ll notice improved hydration within days, but significant improvements in skin quality typically develop over 4-8 weeks as collagen production increases.
4. Can I combine polynucleotides with my regular skincare?
Absolutely! In fact, maintaining a good skincare routine will support and enhance your results.
5. How many treatments will I need?
Most people benefit from 2-3 initial treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart, followed by maintenance treatments every 6-12 months.
6. Are there any restrictions after treatment?
Avoid intense exercise, saunas, and alcohol for 24 hours. You can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
7. How do I know if polynucleotides are right for me?
The best way is through a consultation where we can assess your skin, discuss your goals, and determine if this treatment aligns with your expectations.
Aftercare: supporting your polynucleotide treatment
To maximise your polynucleotide results we recommend:
First 24-48 Hours:
- Avoid touching or massaging the treated area
- Skip intense exercise and excessive heat
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol
- Use gentle skincare products only
Ongoing Care:
- Maintain a consistent skincare routine with sun protection
- Stay well-hydrated
- Consider incorporating antioxidant-rich serums
- Follow up with your practitioner as recommended
Why choose Little Foray for polynucleotide treatment?
We know that choosing any aesthetic treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re not entirely sure what you need or want. That’s why we start every polynucleotide journey with a proper conversation about your skin, your concerns, and what you’re hoping to achieve.
Our Thames Ditton clinic has built a reputation across Surrey for honest advice rather than hard sales. If polynucleotides aren’t right for you, we’ll tell you. If there’s a better approach for your concerns, we’ll suggest that instead. We’d rather have you leave with realistic expectations and come back when you’re ready than pressure you into treatments that don’t suit your goals.
We use only premium-grade Vitaran products and maintain rigorous safety standards, but more importantly, we take the time to understand what success looks like for you personally. Because what matters isn’t what we think looks good – it’s how confident you feel in your own skin.
What About the Investment?
Let’s be honest about costs – polynucleotide treatments aren’t cheap, but they’re also not just another skincare expense. These treatments work by restoring your skin’s natural functions, so the results improve over time and last significantly longer than quick fixes.
During your consultation, we’ll give you transparent pricing and realistic timelines. No hidden costs, no pressure to book immediately, just clear information so you can make the right decision for your skin and your budget. As a guide, you can expect a typical polynucleotide course to start from £600.
Ready to experience regenerative skincare?
If you’re curious about polynucleotides but still have questions (and you probably do – it’s a lot to take in!), the best next step is simply having a chat with our team. We can look at your skin, understand what’s bothering you, and give you honest advice about whether this treatment makes sense for your goals.
Maybe polynucleotides are exactly what your skin needs, or maybe we’ll suggest starting with something else entirely. Either way, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of your options and no pressure to decide immediately.
Book your consultation and let’s have a proper conversation about your skin. Sometimes the best transformations really do happen gradually – and it all starts with asking the right questions.