Why everyone is suddenly asking about it
If your feed has been full of “glass skin” and “salmon DNA” lately, you are not imagining it. Industry commentary on aesthetic medicine in the UAE describes skin boosters and polynucleotides as one of the fastest-growing categories, alongside a clear shift toward subtle, natural-looking results rather than visible change.
In clinic, the questions are very consistent. Is it safe? Does it actually work? How many sessions? Will I look different? This guide answers those honestly, including the parts that are still uncertain.
What are polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides (PN) are long chains of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA. The ones used in aesthetic medicine are purified and processed fragments, most commonly derived from salmon or trout. A closely related ingredient is PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide). You will see both terms used, sometimes interchangeably, but they are not always identical products, so it is worth asking which one is being used and from which brand.
This is not “putting fish DNA into your genes”. The material is highly purified and does not become part of your own DNA. It is used as a signal and a hydrating, supportive environment for the skin.
How are they thought to work?
- Supporting repair: laboratory and clinical research suggests polynucleotides may support the skin’s own repair processes, including the activity of fibroblasts, the cells that make collagen and elastin.
- Hydration: polynucleotide gels can bind water, which is one reason treated skin often looks and feels more hydrated.
- Calming effect: studies describe an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect, which is why polynucleotides are being explored for sensitive, thin or stressed skin.
The honest summary is that this is a skin quality treatment, not a filler. It does not add volume or lift in the way hyaluronic acid fillers do.
Who may benefit?
- Skin that looks dull, dehydrated or tired, especially after sun exposure, which many people in the UAE experience year-round
- Fine lines and early texture changes
- Thin, crepey skin, including the delicate under-eye area, where it can form part of a layered under-eye plan
- Acne marks and uneven texture, often combined with other treatments
- People who want gradual, natural improvement rather than a dramatic change
What does the evidence actually say?
This is the part many adverts skip. A 2025 scoping review of nucleotide-based skin boosters in aesthetic dermatology (DOI 10.1002/der2.70080) looked at the available studies and found a small body of research: six studies in total.
Across them, polynucleotides were associated with improvements in hydration, elasticity, firmness, texture, hyperpigmentation, acne scars and wrinkles, and patient satisfaction was generally positive. Side effects were described as mild and temporary, with no serious adverse events reported.
The same review also notes the limits. The studies were few, the populations were small, protocols were not standardised, and long-term safety and efficacy data are still needed. The early picture is encouraging, but this is not yet a treatment with decades of large trials behind it. We think you deserve to hear both halves.
What happens during treatment?
- Consultation and skin assessment: we review your skin, medical history, medications, allergies (including fish or seafood allergy) and your goals.
- Preparation: the skin is cleansed, and numbing cream may be used depending on the area and your comfort.
- Treatment: fine needles or a cannula are used to place small amounts of product in the skin. Some plans use microneedling or topical application instead.
- Aftercare: gentle skincare, daily SPF, and avoiding heavy exercise, heat and make-up for the period we advise.
Protocols vary by product and by skin concern. Many plans involve a short series of sessions spaced a few weeks apart, followed by maintenance if you wish. Your doctor should explain the plan for your product before you start.
What results are realistic, and when?
Polynucleotides are about gradual improvement. Some people notice smoother, more hydrated skin within a few weeks, while for others the change builds over a series of sessions. Results vary between individuals and depend on skin condition, age, lifestyle, sun protection and the product used. No reputable clinic can guarantee a specific outcome, and you should be cautious of anyone who does.
Side effects and safety
Common and usually short-lived effects include redness, small raised bumps at the injection points, mild swelling, tenderness and small bruises. These typically settle within hours to a few days.
Less common effects that you should tell your doctor about include persistent swelling, lumps, increasing pain, signs of infection (heat, spreading redness or discharge), rash or itching. Any breathing difficulty needs urgent medical care.
Who should avoid or delay treatment: anyone with a known allergy to the product or to fish or seafood (this needs a doctor’s assessment first), anyone with active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area, and pregnant or breastfeeding women, because safety data are limited. Tell us about blood-thinning medication and any history of keloid scarring or autoimmune conditions.
Polynucleotides compared with other skin treatments
- Polynucleotides: support skin repair and hydration. Best for texture, tired or thin skin and gradual skin quality improvement.
- Hyaluronic acid skin boosters: bind water for deep hydration. Best for dehydrated, dull skin.
- PRP: uses growth factors from your own blood. Used for skin quality, scars and hair support.
- Biostimulators and energy-based devices: stimulate collagen over time. Best for laxity and firmness.
These are not rivals. Many of the best plans combine two or three approaches in the right order, which is why an individual assessment matters more than any single trending name.
Questions to ask before you book
- Who will treat me, and are they a licensed physician?
- Which product is this (PN or PDRN), and which brand?
- What results are realistic for my skin, and how many sessions will I need?
- What are the risks for me, and what happens if something goes wrong?
- Is this the right first step, or would another treatment suit me better?
Frequently asked questions
Is it painful? Most people describe mild to moderate discomfort, which is reduced with numbing cream.
Is there downtime? Usually minimal. Small bumps, redness or bruising can occur and normally settle within days.
Will I look “done”? Polynucleotides are designed for natural, gradual improvement of skin quality, not changes to your facial shape.
Is it permanent? No. Skin continues to age, so maintenance plans and sun protection matter.
Ready to talk about your skin?
Book a consultation at drpravinkumar.com and we will assess your skin and recommend only what suits you.
Sources: Nucleotide-based skin boosters in aesthetic dermatology: a scoping review of their potential role (DOI 10.1002/der2.70080). Khaleej Times, “Aesthetic and wellness treatments in the UAE: The Novomed approach in 2026” (partner content, used only for market-trend context).
This article is for general education and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Suitability, product choice and risks are confirmed only after assessment. Results vary.