When it comes to radiant, youthful skin, both polynucleotides and profhilo are game-changers. While each delivers natural-looking, revitalised skin, their approaches to regeneration and hydration set them apart.
Knowing the differences between the two injectable treatments will help you make the right choice for your skin.
In this article, we’ll break down how each works, what skin concerns they target, and what you can expect from treatment, so you can feel confident in choosing the best option for your individual skin needs.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are a cutting-edge injectable treatment made from purified DNA fragments sourced from salmon. These naturally occurring molecules act as biostimulators, encouraging the skin’s repair mechanisms by activating fibroblast cells. This boosts the production of collagen and elastin, two key elements that give the skin its firmness and elasticity.
Polynucleotides also have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them particularly effective for improving skin hydration, texture, and tone. They are effectively used to treat concerns like fine lines, acne scarring, sun damage, and skin laxity, offering a regenerative approach that works from deep within the skin over time.
At Light Touch Clinic, we use PhilArt®, one of the most advanced polynucleotide treatments available. PhilArt® is designed to improve skin quality, stimulate cell renewal, and restore a youthful glow without adding volume. It’s particularly suited for delicate areas like under the eyes, where hydration and firmness are often most needed.
What Is Profhilo?
Profhilo is an injectable skin treatment made from highly concentrated, stabilised hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in the skin. Unlike dermal fillers, which are used to restore volume, Profhilo spreads smoothly beneath the skin, delivering deep hydration and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. This improves skin texture, firmness, and elasticity without altering facial contours.
One of the reasons Profhilo has become so popular is its ability to rejuvenate the skin with minimal downtime. It’s particularly effective for treating crepey or sagging skin on the face, neck, and décolletage, giving a smoother, tighter, and more refreshed appearance.
Typically administered over two sessions spaced four weeks apart, Profhilo offers visible improvements that continue to develop over several months.
The Differences Between Polynucleotides and Profhilo
While both polynucleotides and Profhilo work to rejuvenate the skin, they work in different ways and are suited to different needs.
Key differences at a glance:
Mechanism: Polynucleotides stimulate skin regeneration; Profhilo hydrates and firms the skin.
Main ingredient: Polynucleotides (purified salmon DNA) vs. stabilised hyaluronic acid.
Treatment focus: Polynucleotides target cell repair and collagen stimulation; Profhilo focuses on skin hydration and elasticity.
Results timeline: Polynucleotides improve skin over time; Profhilo delivers faster, visible improvement.
Treatment areas: Polynucleotides work well in delicate zones like under the eyes; Profhilo is ideal for the face, neck, and décolletage.
Best for: Polynucleotides suit damaged or scarred skin; Profhilo suits sagging, dehydrated, or ageing skin.
Treatment Procedure: What to Expect from Each Option
Treatment with polynucleotides typically involves a series of small injections using a fine needle, placed just beneath the skin. A topical numbing cream is usually applied beforehand to maximise comfort.
The treatment takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on the area, and most patients require 2–3 sessions spaced roughly 2-4 weeks apart for optimal results. Mild redness or swelling may occur after the procedure, but usually settles within 24–72 hours.
Profhilo is administered through a precise technique known as the BAP (Bio Aesthetic Points), where five small injections are placed on each side of the face or targeted area. This allows the hyaluronic acid to spread evenly beneath the skin for maximum hydration.
The treatment takes about 30 minutes, typically over two sessions spaced four weeks apart. As with polynucleotides, downtime is little to none, with possible slight swelling or bruising that resolves quickly.
Longevity and Maintenance of Results
Polynucleotide treatments work gradually, with results developing over several weeks as your skin regenerates and strengthens. Typically, you’ll see the best improvements after a series of 2–3 sessions, with results lasting around 6–12 months, depending on your skin condition and lifestyle. To maintain the benefits, a top-up session every 6–9 months is usually recommended.
Profhilo offers quicker visible results, with most patients noticing improvements in skin hydration, firmness, and glow within a few weeks of the first session. After completing the initial two treatments spaced four weeks apart, results typically last about 6-12 months. For long-term maintenance, most people benefit from a repeat treatment twice a year to keep the skin looking fresh and rejuvenated.
Safety, Side Effects and Downtime
Both polynucleotides and Profhilo are known for their excellent safety profiles and minimal downtime, making them a great choice for those with busy lifestyles. After polynucleotide treatments, you might experience slight redness, mild swelling, or tiny bumps at the injection sites, which usually settle within 24–48 hours. Bruising is rare but can occasionally happen, especially in more delicate areas like under the eyes.
Profhilo is similarly low risk, with mild swelling or small lumps at the injection points that typically resolve within a day or two. Bruising is also possible, but usually mild. Because both treatments are non-surgical and minimally invasive, most patients can return to work or social activities the same day or the following day. It’s always best to follow your practitioner’s aftercare advice to maximise results and minimise any side effects.
Cost Comparison: Are Polynucleotides or Profhilo More Cost-Effective?
When comparing costs, both treatments are considered premium skin rejuvenation options, but they are priced slightly differently. Polynucleotide treatments typically start around £495 per session, with most patients requiring a course of 2–3 sessions for optimal results.
While the upfront investment is higher, the regenerative benefits can last up to a year, making it a worthwhile option for long-term skin improvement.
Profhilo treatments start at £475, generally involving two sessions four weeks apart. Maintenance sessions, usually every six months, help prolong the results.
While Profhilo may seem more expensive initially, its rapid results and minimal downtime often make it an attractive option for those looking for a quick skin boost before a big event or special occasion.
How to Choose the Right Treatment for Your Skin Goals
Choosing between polynucleotides and Profhilo comes down to your skin concerns and the results you’re hoping to achieve. If you’re looking for deep skin regeneration, improved texture, and help with issues like acne scars or sun damage, polynucleotides are often the better choice as they work gradually but deliver lasting, regenerative results.
On the other hand, if your main concerns are skin laxity, dullness, or a lack of hydration, Profhilo is brilliant for delivering an all-over glow and firmer, more youthful-looking skin in just a few weeks.
The best way to decide is to book a consultation with one of our expert practitioners who can assess your skin and recommend a personalised treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
Why Choose Light Touch Clinic For Your Next Cosmetic Injectable Treatment?
With two decades of experience and an award-winning team of aesthetic experts, we are dedicated to providing treatments that are not only effective but also safe, subtle, and expertly tailored to your skin.
We offer polynucleotide and Profhilo treatments in a calm, clinical setting where your comfort and confidence come first. Our practitioners are highly trained in advanced injectable techniques and take the time to understand your unique skin goals, ensuring every treatment plan is bespoke and backed by clinical expertise.
Clients trust us not just for our results, but for our integrity, attention to detail, and warm, personal care. You’ll be in experienced hands that prioritise natural-looking results and long-term skin health, whether you’re new to injectables or a regular visitor.
Book a consultation today and let us help you glow with injectable treatments designed to restore, rejuvenate, and refresh your skin.
