Salmon DNA (Polynucleotide) and Skin Booster Injections: An Evidence-Based Guide to Skin Quality

Polynucleotide (PN) injections — popularly known as "salmon DNA" — and skin boosters are treatments that aim to improve the skin's own quality — hydration, elasticity, fine lines, pore appearance and under-eye tiredness — without changing the shape of the face. They add no volume, so they should not be confused with fillers. At our practice they are planned after a skin analysis and examination, on their own or alongside other treatments according to what the patient actually needs.

What are polynucleotides?

Polynucleotides are highly purified chains of DNA building blocks (nucleotides), most often derived from salmon or trout DNA. When injected into the skin they are reported to support fibroblast activity and tissue repair, increase water binding within the tissue and have an anti-inflammatory effect. They are therefore considered mainly for the thin skin under the eyes, signs of ageing, tissue repair after acne scarring and sensitive skin with a weakened barrier. For a critical look at the evidence, see Salmon DNA: hype or science?.

What is a skin booster?

A skin booster is non-cross-linked or lightly cross-linked hyaluronic acid spread through the skin in tiny deposits. The goal is not volume but greater water-holding capacity — fewer fine lines, less dullness and dryness. Some products combine hyaluronic acid with amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants; these overlap with mesotherapy and skin boosters.

When is it considered?

• Thin, crêpey, tired-looking skin under the eyes (a skin-quality problem, not volume loss)

• Fine lines, dull and dry skin on the face, neck, décolletage and backs of the hands

• Supporting tissue repair after acne scarring and laser treatments

• Loss of elasticity from smoking, sun and ageing

• Strengthening the skin in patients who do not want, or are not suited to, fillers

How it differs from fillers and biostimulators

Fillers add volume to a defined area; biostimulators (calcium hydroxyapatite, polylactic acid and similar) stimulate collagen production and tighten over months; polynucleotides and skin boosters improve the skin's structure and hydration. Each has its own place and they are more often combined than swapped. Our collagen biostimulators article covers the biostimulator side in detail.

How is it done?

• The skin is cleansed; anaesthetic cream can be applied if wished

• The product is placed in the skin as micro-deposits with a very fine needle or cannula; the session takes 15–30 minutes

• Small bumps and mild redness settle within a few hours to 2 days; small bruises occur occasionally

• Usually 2–4 sessions at 2–4-week intervals, then a maintenance session every 6–12 months

Evidence and realistic expectations

The effect of skin boosters on skin hydration and elasticity has been shown in studies using skin-measurement devices. For polynucleotides there are clinical studies reporting benefit for the skin around the eyes, wound healing and acne scars; most are small, however, and long-term comparative data are limited. We therefore present these treatments not as a "miracle" but as supportive treatments that bring measurable, moderate improvement in skin quality. Results vary from person to person; the plan is decided at the consultation.

Frequently asked questions

Can polynucleotides cause allergy? Reactions are rare because of the high degree of purification; a history of fish allergy must still be mentioned at the consultation.

How many sessions are needed? For most patients 2–4 sessions at 2–4-week intervals, followed by maintenance; the actual number depends on the skin and is set at the consultation.

Who should not have it? Pregnancy and breastfeeding, active skin infection, an active acne flare in the treatment area and uncontrolled autoimmune disease.

Treatment in Kırklareli

Our practice is in central Kırklareli, in Turkish Thrace — about an hour from Edirne, with the Kapıkule (Bulgaria) and İpsala (Greece) border crossings within easy reach. We are open Monday to Saturday, 10:00–18:15, and see patients from Bulgaria and Greece under our international health tourism authorisation. Sessions can be spaced to suit travel. To book, use our contact page.

This article is for general information; whether a treatment suits you is decided after an examination.