Polynucleotide (Salmon DNA) Treatment: Treatment Areas, Procedure and Risks

Polynucleotides (commonly known as salmon DNA) are substances made up of DNA fragments obtained from the reproductive cells of salmon and then purified. When injected into the skin, they are intended to support the skin's repair processes and hydration. This article explains which areas polynucleotide treatment is used on, the procedure, who should not have it and its risks.

Which Areas Is It Used On?

• Around the eyes
• Cheeks and the general skin surface of the face
• Neck and décolletage
• Back of the hands

The treatment may be considered for fine lines, dry skin and reduced skin quality. The doctor decides which areas will be treated after the examination.

How Is It Done?

The doctor first assesses the skin and listens to the person's expectations. The treatment area is cleaned and prepared with an antiseptic solution; an anaesthetic cream is applied if needed. The product is injected in small amounts into the superficial layers of the skin with a fine needle or a cannula. The treatment is usually planned as sessions repeated at intervals; the number of sessions and the interval are decided by the doctor for each person. If filler or another injection treatment has been done before, the doctor should be informed.

Who Should Not Have It?

The treatment is not performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding, if there is an active infection, an open wound or inflammation in the treatment area, or if there is a history of allergy to fish or to the ingredients of the product. In conditions such as a bleeding or clotting disorder, autoimmune disease or cancer treatment, a doctor's assessment is needed first. Blood thinners and other regularly used medicines should not be stopped without consulting a doctor, and the doctor who will perform the treatment should be informed of them in advance.

Aftercare

• It is recommended not to touch, rub or massage the treated area on the first day.
• Before wearing make-up, doing strenuous exercise or using a sauna or very hot environments, the period recommended by the doctor should be observed.
• Before peeling, products containing acids and treatments such as laser, the period recommended by the doctor should be observed.
• A broad-spectrum sunscreen should be used.

Expectations and Limits

With polynucleotide treatment, the effect appears gradually as the sessions progress and varies from person to person. The treatment aims to support skin quality; it does not remove marked sagging, deep wrinkles or under-eye bags. The effect is not permanent.

Possible Risks

Redness, small bumps, swelling, bruising and tenderness at the injection points are common and usually settle within a few days. Less commonly, an allergic reaction, infection and firmness in the treated area may occur. The treatment should be performed by a doctor, under sterile conditions and with approved products. If increasing pain, redness, warmth, discharge or fever is noticed, a doctor should be consulted immediately. For more information, see our salmon DNA and hydration injections pages.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın