Polynucleotides
(PDRN) Treatment
Advanced skin repair that works with your body’s own biology — rebuilding from the inside out, not just masking the surface.
What are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides — sometimes called PDRN — are one of the most exciting developments in aesthetic medicine in recent years, and one of my favourite treatments to offer at Amber Grove. In simple terms, they are tiny molecules derived from highly purified salmon or trout DNA that act as a powerful signal to your skin cells, telling them to repair, regenerate and produce more of the building blocks that keep skin looking healthy and youthful.
Unlike treatments that simply fill or relax, polynucleotides work at a deeper biological level — actually improving the quality and health of your skin tissue over time. Think of it less as a quick fix and more as a long-term investment in the health of your skin.
“Polynucleotides are one of the few treatments where I consistently see patients surprised by how their skin feels, not just how it looks — softer, more hydrated, and genuinely healthier.”
They are delivered via a series of small injections just beneath the surface of the skin, and the treatment can be used on the face, neck, décolletage, and hands. Because the molecules are so highly purified, the risk of adverse reactions is exceptionally low.
How does it work?
Without getting too technical — your skin is made up of cells that constantly renew and repair themselves. As we get older (and as a result of sun exposure, stress, and lifestyle factors), this process slows down. The skin produces less collagen and elastin, holds less moisture, and takes longer to repair itself.
Polynucleotides work by acting as a biostimulator — they switch on the repair process in your skin cells rather than adding something foreign to your tissue. Specifically, they:
Stimulate fibroblasts — the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, which give skin its firmness and bounce.
Improve hydration — by increasing the skin’s ability to retain moisture at a cellular level, not just on the surface.
Promote tissue repair — making them particularly effective for skin that has been damaged by sun exposure, scarring, or the natural ageing process.
Reduce inflammation — polynucleotides have a calming effect on inflamed or reactive skin, which is why they work so well for conditions like rosacea-prone or sensitive skin.
The results build gradually over several weeks as your skin does its own repair work — which is why they look so natural. You’re not adding volume or freezing movement; you’re improving the underlying quality of your skin.
What can polynucleotides improve?
This treatment addresses a wide range of skin concerns — it’s one of the most versatile rejuvenation treatments available because it improves skin quality at a fundamental level rather than targeting one specific issue.
Who is this treatment suited to?
Polynucleotides are a genuinely versatile treatment with a broad range of suitable candidates — one of the reasons I recommend them so frequently. A thorough consultation will always be the starting point, but here’s a general guide:
- ✓Anyone noticing their skin feels drier or less radiant than it used to
- ✓People with fine lines and crêpey skin around the eyes, mouth, or neck
- ✓Those with sun-damaged or uneven skin tone
- ✓Sensitive or reactive skin types — including rosacea-prone skin
- ✓Anyone wanting to complement existing anti-wrinkle or filler treatments
- ✓Those in their 30s–60s looking for gradual, natural improvement
- ✓Post-acne scarring or skin that has gone through a difficult period
- !You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- !You have a known fish or seafood allergy (salmon-derived PDRN)
- !You have an active skin infection or cold sore in the treatment area
- !You are taking blood-thinning medication (discuss with me first)
- !You have certain autoimmune conditions (we will review this at consultation)
If you’re unsure whether polynucleotides are right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — I’m always happy to have a no-pressure conversation before you book.
What to expect on the day
I want every visit to Amber Grove to feel calm, unhurried, and genuinely tailored to you — not a conveyor belt. Here’s exactly how your appointment will go:
No special preparation is needed. Come with a clean face if possible — no thick moisturiser or makeup on the treatment area. Avoid alcohol the night before and stay well hydrated on the day. If you’re prone to bruising, avoid ibuprofen and aspirin for 48 hours beforehand if you’re able to.
We’ll sit down together and talk through your skin concerns, medical history, and what you’re hoping to achieve. I’ll assess your skin in good lighting and explain exactly what I’m recommending and why. There’s no rush — this conversation is as important to me as the treatment itself.
A numbing cream is applied to the treatment area and left to work for around 15 minutes. Most clients find polynucleotide injections very comfortable, but I always use numbing cream as standard — your comfort matters.
Using a very fine needle, I administer the polynucleotides just beneath the skin surface in a series of small, precise injections across the treatment area. You’ll feel some mild pressure and possibly a slight tingling sensation. Most clients are surprised by how straightforward and quick it feels. The number of injection points varies depending on the area being treated.
Immediately after, you may notice some small bumps or mild redness at the injection sites — this is completely normal and usually settles within a few hours. I’ll go through your aftercare instructions, answer any questions, and book your follow-up appointment if needed. Most clients leave feeling perfectly comfortable.
Nurse-Led Care at Every Step
As a registered nurse, I bring a medical approach to every treatment — thorough assessment, honest advice, and clinical precision. I will never recommend a treatment I don’t genuinely believe is right for you, and I’ll always tell you if I think something else would serve you better.
When will I see results?
Polynucleotides work gradually — the results reflect what is actually happening in your skin biologically, which means they build over time and look entirely natural. This is not a treatment where you walk out looking dramatically different; it’s one where people start noticing something has changed about your skin without being able to pinpoint exactly what.
Course of treatment: For best results, a course of 3 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart is recommended, followed by maintenance treatments every 4–6 months. Many clients choose to have polynucleotides as an annual skin health treatment even after their initial course is complete.
Results vary between individuals depending on age, skin condition, and lifestyle — I’ll give you a realistic and honest picture at your consultation.
Aftercare instructions
Following these guidelines will help you get the best possible results and minimise any discomfort after your appointment.
Safety & side effects
Polynucleotides have an excellent safety profile and are considered one of the safest injectable treatments available. The highly purified formulations used in medical aesthetics undergo stringent testing and have been used widely across Europe and Asia for many years.
As a registered nurse, your safety is my first priority. I carry out a thorough medical history and skin assessment at every consultation, and I will never proceed with a treatment if I have any clinical concerns. I am fully trained in the management of any complications and carry an emergency kit to every appointment.
Common side effects are generally mild and temporary. Most resolve within a few hours to a few days:
Serious adverse reactions are extremely rare with polynucleotides. If you experience any unusual symptoms following your treatment, please contact me directly — I am always available to provide guidance and support.
Frequently asked questions
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