When it comes to anti-aging skincare, there are a couple of tried-and-true injectables. Hyaluronic acid fillers and Botox are the two most common. However, a new popular treatment is emerging for skin rejuvenation. Polynucleotide injections are becoming increasingly popular for hydration, anti-aging, and skin repair. Polynucleotide injections are starting to be discussed interchangeably with hyaluronic acid fillers, but they work in very different ways. So, how do you choose the right one for your skin? Let’s break it down.
What Are Hyaluronic Acid Fillers and Polynucleotide Injections?
What Is a Hyaluronic Acid Treatment?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar found in the skin. It helps retain moisture and gives skin cells a place to grow. Hyaluronic acid fillers are also known as dermal fillers. Dermal fillers work by adding volume, plumping wrinkles, and deeply hydrating the skin. The are more permanent, but they give an instant plumping effect. In contrast, polynucleotide injections, which focus on cell regeneration.
What Is a Polynucleotide Treatment?
Polynucleotides are DNA fragments. Specifically in skincare, they are derived from fish, usually salmon. This is why polynucleotide injections are sometimes called salmon sperm facials. They are used to help stimulate skin repair, collagen production, and hydration. When injected into the skin, they boost cellular renewal, improve elasticity, and reduce redness and inflammation. Polynucleotides are known for their biostimulatory effects. This means they encourage the skin to heal and repair itself over time.
Key Differences Between Polynucleotides and Hyaluronic Acid
The best choice depends on your skin needs. Let’s take a closer look at which treatment works best for different concerns.
| Feature | Polynucleotides Injectison (PN) | Hyaluronic Acid (HA) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Function | Skin repair & collagen stimulation | Hydration & volume enhancement |
| How It Works | Stimulates cell regeneration & healing | Fills and hydrates the skin directly |
| Best For | Fine lines, skin texture, elasticity, redness | Deep wrinkles, volume loss, intense hydration |
| Results Timeline | Gradual (visible after a few weeks) | Immediate plumping effect |
| Longevity | 6+ months with maintenance | 6-12 months, depending on the type of filler |
| Treatment Areas | Face, neck, hands, scalp, stretch marks | Lips, cheeks, under eyes, jawline, deep wrinkles |
| Side Effects | Mild swelling, redness, bruising | Swelling, bruising, risk of lumps or migration |
| Best Candidates | Those looking for skin regeneration & anti-inflammatory benefits | Those wanting instant hydration or volume restoration |
Can Polynucleotides and Hyaluronic Acid Be Combined?
Yes! Hyaluronic acid fillers and polynucleotide injections can be used together. In fact, a survey given to over 200 dermatologists who use polynucleotide injections in their practice showed that they used them with other treatments like hyaluronic acid fillers. Some studies show that using polynucleotides before HA fillers can improve and extend the results.
Side Effects and Safety: Polynucleotide Injections vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Both treatments are safe and generally well-tolerated. However, they have different side effects. Both can cause some swelling and bruising. If you are allergic to fish, polynucleotide injections can cause an allergic reaction. Hyaluronic acid fillers can cause filler migration, unevenness, and blood vessel blockages if not injected correctly. Regardless of risk, both treatments should always be performed by a licensed professional.
How Much Do Polynucleotide Injections and Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Cost?
The cost depends on where you live and who does the treatment. It also depends on how much product is used. Polynucleotide injections usually cost $300–$800 per session (3-4 sessions). Hyaluronic acid fillers cost $500–$1,500 per syringe (1-2 syringes per area). Polynucleotide injections might seem cheaper per session. But you need more sessions. Hyaluronic fillers cost more per syringe. But they give you fast results with fewer sessions. Regardless of your treatment, you don’t want to seek the cheapest provider. You should only get treatments performed by a trusted and licensed skincare professional.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
| If You Want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Immediate hydration & plumping | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Long-term skin repair & anti-aging | Polynucleotides |
| Fine line & wrinkle reduction | Both (PN for texture, HA for deep wrinkles) |
| Improved elasticity & collagen boost | Polynucleotides |
| Volume restoration (cheeks, lips, under eyes) | Hyaluronic Acid |
| Redness & sensitive skin relief | Polynucleotides |
| A combination approach for best results | Both! (PN first, then HA) |
For fast results, hyaluronic acid fillers are better. If you are looking for long-term skin improvement, polynucleotide injections can help. For the best results, use both. Talk to a skin professional. They can tell you what’s best for your skin!
References
Araco A, Araco F, Raichi M. Clinical efficacy and safety of polynucleotides highly purified technology (PN-HPT®) and cross-linked hyaluronic acid for moderate to severe nasolabial folds: A prospective, randomized, exploratory study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023 Jan;22(1):146-155. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15064. Epub 2022 May 26. PMID: 35531796; PMCID: PMC10084116.
Cavallini M, Bartoletti E, Maioli L, Massirone A, Pia Palmieri I, Papagni M, Priori M, Trocchi G; As Members of The Polynucleotides HPT™ Priming Board, Collegio Italiano delle Società Scientifiche di Medicina Estetica (Italian College of the Aesthetic Medicine Scientific Societies) – SIME, AGORÀ, SIES. Consensus report on the use of PN-HPT™ (polynucleotides highly purified technology) in aesthetic medicine. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Mar;20(3):922-928. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13679. Epub 2020 Sep 21. PMID: 32799391; PMCID: PMC7984045.
Lampridou S, Bassett S, Cavallini M, Christopoulos G. The Effectiveness of Polynucleotides in Esthetic Medicine: A Systematic Review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Dec 8:e16721. doi: 10.1111/jocd.16721. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39645667.
Lee D, Choi H, Yoo K, Park YJ, Park HJ, Oh SM, Ji GH, Rah GC, Shin DW. Assessment of current practices and perceived effectiveness of injectable polynucleotide for enlarged facial pores among cosmetic physicians: A survey-based evaluation. Skin Res Technol. 2024 Sep;30(9):e13738. doi: 10.1111/srt.13738. PMID: 39233467; PMCID: PMC11375025.
Lee DK, Oh M, Kim MJ, Oh SM. Clinical effects of polynucleotide with hyaluronic acid intradermal injections on facial erythema: Effective redness treatment using polynucleotides. Skin Res Technol. 2024 Sep;30(9):e70034. doi: 10.1111/srt.70034. PMID: 39258788; PMCID: PMC11388635.
Lee D, Kim MJ, Park HJ, Rah GC, Choi H, Anh ST, Ji GH, Kim MS, Kim G, Shin DW, Oh SM. Current practices and perceived effectiveness of polynucleotides for treatment of facial erythema by cosmetic physicians. Skin Res Technol. 2023 Sep;29(9):e13466. doi: 10.1111/srt.13466. PMID: 37753681; PMCID: PMC10485387.
Lee KWA, Chan KWL, Lee A, Lee CH, Wan J, Wong S, Yi KH. Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review of Current Practices and Perceived Effectiveness. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Jul 27;25(15):8224. doi: 10.3390/ijms25158224. PMID: 39125793; PMCID: PMC11311621.
Lim TS, Liew S, Tee XJ, Chong I, Lo FJ, Ho MJ, Ong K, Cavallini M. Polynucleotides HPT for Asian Skin Regeneration and Rejuvenation. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024 Feb 13;17:417-431. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S437942. PMID: 38371328; PMCID: PMC10874187.
Park KY, Seok J, Rho NK, Kim BJ, Kim MN. Long-chain polynucleotide filler for skin rejuvenation: efficacy and complications in five patients. Dermatol Ther. 2016 Jan-Feb;29(1):37-40. doi: 10.1111/dth.12299. Epub 2015 Nov 2. PMID: 26814448.
Rho NK, Han KH, Cho M, Kim HS. A survey on the cosmetic use of injectable polynucleotide: The pattern of practice among Korean Dermatologists. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Apr;23(4):1243-1252. doi: 10.1111/jocd.16125. Epub 2023 Dec 13. PMID: 38093498.