Polynucleotides are praised for their potential to rejuvenate the skin and promote cellular regeneration and tissue repair. With so much praise going on, you may wonder if these molecules are indeed all they’re cracked up to be. This is one of those cases where the hype is entirely justified. So, what makes polynucleotides such a powerful ally in combating the signs of ageing and improving skin health? Let’s find out.
Understanding Ageing
In aesthetic medicine, polynucleotides’ ability to stimulate cellular processes is key to their efficacy. One of the most studied forms of polynucleotides is Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), derived primarily from the sperm cells of salmon species. PDRN is notable for its molecular weight range (50–1500 kDa) and its ability to activate the body’s regenerative pathways, offering a wide array of therapeutic benefits.
The skin, the body’s largest organ, is constantly exposed to intrinsic and extrinsic ageing factors – which is a fancy way to say internal and external factors! Intrinsic ageing is driven by the natural production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during cellular metabolism, leading to reduced dermal fibroblasts, increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, and diminished collagen and elastin synthesis.
Extrinsic factors, such as prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, exacerbate this oxidative stress, causing damage like age spots, collagen disorganisation, and even malignant tumours. The cumulative effects result in a decline in the skin’s structural integrity and function. Polynucleotides counteract these processes. But how?
The Science of Regeneration
The remarkable efficacy of polynucleotides in skin rejuvenation is rooted in their ability to stimulate adenosine A2A receptors. This activation initiates a cascade of cellular events, including increased collagen synthesis, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and anti-inflammatory responses.
Collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body, provides structural support and is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and strength. As ageing progresses, collagen fibres lose their organisation, leading to wrinkles and sagging. By stimulating fibroblasts – the cells responsible for collagen production – polynucleotides enhance the skin’s ability to repair itself, restoring its youthful texture and tone.
Research has shown that polynucleotides trigger a dose-dependent increase in collagen production, outperforming other common substances like hyaluronic acid (HA).
Moreover, polynucleotides’ role in angiogenesis is mediated through the upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This protein promotes the growth of new blood vessels, improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, which is crucial for skin healing and revitalisation. The interplay of these mechanisms ensures that polynucleotides not only repair but also fortify the skin.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Inflammation and pigmentation disorders are common challenges in skin health. Polynucleotides exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting cytokines – proteins that mediate inflammation. In studies involving murine and human cell lines, PDRN effectively reduced inflammatory responses induced by harmful stimuli. This makes polynucleotides a viable option for treating conditions like facial erythema, often seen after laser treatments or in inflammatory dermatoses.
Polynucleotides also address hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin synthesis. Melanin, a pigment that determines skin colour, can accumulate excessively due to UV exposure or chronic inflammation, leading to conditions like melasma and age spots.
Polynucleotides suppress melanogenesis by downregulating tyrosinase activity—the key enzyme in melanin production – and reducing the expression of melanocyte-inducing transcription factors. This results in a more even skin tone and reduced appearance of dark spots.
Applications in Aesthetic Medicine
The cosmetic applications of polynucleotides are diverse. Clinical studies have reported improvements in skin texture, reduced wrinkle depth, better hydration, and increased elasticity following polynucleotide treatments. These benefits are particularly significant in addressing photoaged skin, which is characterised by fine lines, pigmentation irregularities, and decreased firmness.
In South Korea, polynucleotides are used as part of combination therapies for facial erythema caused by microneedle radiofrequency or laser treatments. The consensus among practitioners is that polynucleotides effectively reduce redness and promote healing, further cementing their reputation in aesthetic medicine.
Potential and Limitations
While the benefits of polynucleotides are well-documented, there remains a need for further research to establish standardised protocols for their use. Variability in treatment outcomes across studies shows the importance of optimising dosage, application methods, and treatment intervals – all things that are best handled by a trained professional!
The Future of Skin Rejuvenation
As research continues to expand our understanding of polynucleotides, these molecules may unlock new frontiers in skin health, offering solutions that are both scientifically robust and clinically effective.
At NewLife Aesthetics we stand ready to leverage such cutting-edge science to redefine the possibilities in skin regeneration. By embracing the power of polynucleotides, the future of aesthetic medicine looks almost as bright as healthy, rejuvenated skin!
If you’re ready to explore treatments featuring polynucleotides to empower your journey towards healthier skin and beautifully natural confidence, please schedule a consultation with our team today.