What is the Difference Between Polynucleotide Treatments and Other Skin Boosters Like Hyaluronic Acid Injectables?
When it comes to skincare treatments, there’s no shortage of options promising to restore youthful glow, hydrate your skin, or diminish signs of ageing. Among the popular choices today are polynucleotide treatments and hyaluronic acid (HA) injectables—both well-known for their rejuvenating effects. But what exactly sets them apart, and how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s dive in and explore the differences between polynucleotide treatments and traditional hyaluronic acid skin boosters.
What Are Polynucleotide Treatments?
Polynucleotide treatments have become increasingly popular due to their unique skin-regenerating properties. But what exactly are polynucleotides?
In simple terms, polynucleotides are small fragments of DNA derived from salmon or trout that, when injected into the skin, stimulate natural healing and regeneration. These tiny DNA fragments boost collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and accelerate tissue repair at a cellular level. They are particularly effective for reducing signs of ageing, scarring, and sun damage, as well as providing a general improvement to skin tone and texture.
What Are Hyaluronic Acid Injectables?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) injectables, on the other hand, have long been popular among skincare enthusiasts and professionals alike. HA is a naturally occurring substance found in our skin that retains water, providing hydration, plumpness, and firmness.
HA injectables, often referred to as “skin boosters,” involve injecting small amounts of hyaluronic acid beneath the surface of your skin. This treatment immediately improves hydration, softens fine lines, and enhances skin elasticity. They’re particularly beneficial for addressing dryness, improving overall skin texture, and achieving a radiant glow.
Key Differences Between Polynucleotide Treatments and HA Injectables
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Mechanism of Action
- Polynucleotides: These stimulate your skin to naturally regenerate by repairing damaged skin cells and boosting collagen production at a deeper cellular level. The DNA fragments actively support healing, making them especially useful in treating damaged, scarred, or ageing skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid: HA primarily works by drawing moisture into your skin, instantly plumping and hydrating it. It’s less about stimulating regeneration and more about providing immediate hydration and smoothing superficial lines.
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Treatment Results and Timeline
- Polynucleotides: Results with polynucleotide treatments tend to build gradually. You might notice some improvements after your first session, but the most significant changes typically appear over a few weeks to months as your skin regenerates naturally. These improvements are long-lasting due to the deep cellular repair.
- Hyaluronic Acid: With HA injectables, you’ll often see results immediately, making your skin appear smoother, brighter, and plumper right away. However, results generally last a shorter period, often around 6 to 9 months, after which follow-up treatments are recommended to maintain the effects.
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Ideal Skin Concerns
- Polynucleotides: Ideal for mature skin showing noticeable signs of ageing, sun damage, scarring, or deeper structural issues. They’re great if you want lasting improvements in elasticity, firmness, and overall skin quality.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Perfect if your main concern is dryness, dullness, or fine lines. HA injectables provide instant hydration, making them an excellent choice for regular maintenance and instant freshness.
Who Should Choose Polynucleotide Treatments?
Polynucleotide treatments might be your go-to if you:
- Have mature skin needing significant rejuvenation and cellular repair.
- Want long-lasting improvements to skin texture, elasticity, and firmness.
- Have skin damage from sun exposure or scarring you want to improve.
- Prefer treatments that encourage natural collagen production and regeneration from within.
Who Should Opt for HA Injectables?
You might prefer hyaluronic acid injectables if you:
- Have dehydrated or dull skin and seek instant hydration and radiance.
- Want immediate results with minimal downtime.
- Are looking for a temporary enhancement or regular skin maintenance.
- Need treatment for superficial fine lines and dryness rather than deep tissue repair.
Can They Be Combined?
Yes, and often combining both treatments can deliver enhanced, comprehensive results. Polynucleotides handle deep repair and regeneration, while HA injectables maintain surface hydration and immediate radiance. Combining the two can address multiple skin concerns simultaneously, providing deeper regeneration and ongoing surface hydration.
Side Effects and Downtime
Both treatments have minimal downtime, but you might experience minor bruising, swelling, or redness after either treatment. These side effects are generally mild and resolve quickly.
Making Your Choice
At Skin Boutique Essex, we always recommend having an initial consultation with our skilled nurse practitioners to discuss your specific skin concerns and goals. We’ll help you determine whether polynucleotide treatments, HA injectables, or a combination of both will deliver the best possible results for your unique skin type and needs.
Whether you’re seeking deeper, long-lasting skin repair or instant hydration and a fresh glow, understanding these differences can help you make the most informed choice. Contact us today to find out more about our treatments and book your consultation.
