Polynucleotides vs Dermal Fillers: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances — most commonly based on hyaluronic acid
(HA) — that
are injected beneath the skin to restore volume, shape, and structure.

They are a cosmetic correction tool, ideal for addressing visible signs of volume loss.

Common Uses:

•  • Plumping thin lips
•  • Filling deep smile lines (nasolabial folds)
•  • Enhancing cheekbones
•  • Softening marionette lines
•  • Restoring volume in temples or under-eye hollows

Popular Brands:

•  • Juvederm
•  • Restylane
•  • Teosyal
•  • Belotero

How Long Do Results Last?

•  • 6 to 18 months, depending on the product, area treated, and metabolism.
•  • Can be dissolved if needed (with hyaluronidase).

How They Work:

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that binds water. When injected, HA
fillers:

•  • Add instant volume
•  • Lift sagging tissue
•  • Smooth deep folds

They do not regenerate skin — they simply occupy space.

Polynucleotides (PN) are short chains of DNA fragments, typically derived from salmon sperm
(yes — hence the nickname “salmon DNA facial”). These purified molecules are
biocompatible and work at a cellular level to repair and rejuvenate the skin.

Unlike fillers, PN do not add volume. Instead, they act as a biological reset for ageing or damaged skin.

Common Uses:

•  • Improving skin texture and tone
•  • Reducing fine lines and crepiness
•  • Treating sun damage and scarring
•  • Hydrating dehydrated or dull skin
•  • Strengthening thin skin (e.g. under eyes)
•  • Accelerating post-procedure recovery

Popular Brands:

•  • PLiNEST – known for high purity and hydration
•  • Nucleofill® – designed for deep tissue repair and elasticity

How Long Do Results Last?

•  • 6 to 12 months, with optimal results after a course of 2–3 sessions.
•  • Not dissolvable — they integrate and stimulate natural regeneration.

How They Work:

Once injected, polynucleotides:

1.  • Activate fibroblasts (skin’s collagen-producing cells)
2.  • Boost collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production
3.  • Improve microcirculation and oxygenation
4.  • Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress

This leads to thicker, stronger, more resilient skin — not just a temporary plump.

Let’s match your concerns to the best solution.

Choose Dermal Fillers If:

•  • You want immediate, visible changes
•  • You’ve lost volume in cheeks, lips, or temples
•  • You have deep static wrinkles
•  • You want to sculpt facial contours
•  • You’re preparing for an event and need quick results

Ideal for: Volume restoration, facial shaping, instant impact.

Choose Polynucleotides If:

•  • Your skin feels thin, crepey, or dehydrated
•  • You have fine lines and uneven texture
•  • You want long-term skin health, not just a quick fix
•  • You’re recovering from laser, peels, or microneedling
•  • You want to prevent further ageing
•  • You’re in your 30s–50s+ and focusing on maintenance

Ideal for: Skin quality, hydration, elasticity, and repair.

Yes — and it’s one of the most powerful anti-ageing strategies available.

Think of it like this:

•  • Fillers = the scaffolding (structure)
•  • Polynucleotides = the building material (skin quality)

When used together, you get:

•  • Better skin over the filler (no thin, wrinkled appearance)
•  • Longer-lasting results (healthier skin holds volume better)
•  • Reduced risk of complications (stronger tissue)

Example Treatment Plan:

•  • Session 1: Dermal fillers in cheeks and jawline
•  • 2–4 weeks later: Polynucleotides to improve skin texture and hydration
•  • Maintenance: PN every 6–12 months to sustain skin vitality

This combo is especially popular among mature skin patients and those with sun-damaged complexions.

Can polynucleotides replace fillers?

No. They don’t add volume. If you have significant volume loss, you’ll still need fillers (or Sculptra).

Can I have both in the same session?

Yes — but we usually recommend doing fillers first, then PN in a follow-up. This avoids interference and ensures optimal placement.

Are polynucleotides safer than fillers?

Both are very safe when done by experts. PN have no risk of vascular occlusion (a rare but serious filler complication), making them lower risk in delicate areas like under the eyes.

Do polynucleotides hurt more than fillers?

No. Most patients find PN less uncomfortable because we use very fine needles and topical numbing cream. Fillers often require deeper injections.

At Oblique House Of Aesthetics in London, we don’t push one treatment over another. We assess your skin, listen to your goals, and recommend a personalised plan.

Not sure which treatment suits your skin?
Book a personalised consultation at Oblique House Of Aesthetics in London. We’ll assess your skin, discuss your goals, and create a tailored rejuvenation plan — with or without needles.