You may have heard about polynucleotide injections being described as the next generation of skin rejuvenation treatments that repair, hydrate, and strengthen your skin from within. But if you’re thinking about trying them, one of the biggest questions you might have is: how long do the results actually last?
The truth is that polynucleotide treatments don’t offer a quick, short-lived fix. Instead, they work gradually, stimulating your body’s natural healing and collagen-building processes to create lasting improvement in skin texture, tone, and elasticity.
In this guide, I’ll explain how long you can expect polynucleotide results to last, what factors influence longevity, and how to maintain your results for the best long-term outcome.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are natural molecules derived from purified salmon DNA. They’re bio-compatible and safe for human use because they mimic the DNA structure already found in your own cells.
When injected into the skin, these molecules act as bio-stimulators meaning they help your cells regenerate, repair, and rebuild collagen and elastin. Unlike dermal fillers or Botox, they don’t change facial shape or freeze movement. Instead, they revitalise your skin from the inside out.
Their regenerative action leads to smoother, firmer, and more hydrated skin and those effects can last surprisingly long.
How Do Polynucleotides Work?
Polynucleotides function on a cellular level. Once injected, they stimulate fibroblasts the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin and help repair the extracellular matrix that gives your skin structure and bounce.
They also:
- Improve blood circulation in the skin.
- Enhance hydration by retaining water molecules.
- Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Support the regeneration of damaged tissue.
The result isn’t an instant “wow” effect but a gradual and natural improvement over several weeks.
When Will You Start Seeing Results?
You’ll usually notice your first signs of improvement about 3–4 weeks after your initial session. Your skin starts to look fresher and more hydrated as new collagen begins to form. The change is gradual, so it feels natural rather than sudden. Many people also notice a subtle lift and firmer texture even after the very first session, which can be really encouraging.
Most people go through a course of three to four treatments, spaced around three weeks apart, to get the best results. Once you’ve completed the full course, your skin keeps improving for several months as collagen continues to remodel. Sticking to the treatment schedule is important, as each session builds on the last, enhancing hydration, smoothness, and overall texture.
On top of boosting collagen, polynucleotides strengthen your skin’s internal structure, which helps smooth out fine lines and minor imperfections. Over time, you’ll notice your skin looking healthier, firmer, and more radiant almost like it’s been revitalised from the inside out.
Many people also see improvements in skin tone and redness, giving their complexion a more even, refreshed look. With some care and maintenance, the benefits can last for months, so you get long-lasting results that keep your skin looking its best.
How Long Do Polynucleotide Results Last?
Results typically last between 6 and 12 months, depending on several factors such as your age, skin type, and lifestyle. Some patients report visible benefits lasting even longer with proper skincare and maintenance.
Here’s a general timeline of what you can expect:
- Weeks 1–4: Subtle improvements in hydration and smoothness.
- Months 2–3: Increased firmness, elasticity, and radiance.
- Months 6–12: Skin remains plump and rejuvenated, with lasting structural benefits.
The longevity of your results depends on how well your skin responds to the treatment and how you care for it afterwards.
Factors That Influence How Long Results Last
Not everyone’s skin responds in the same way, so how long you enjoy the benefits of polynucleotides can vary. Several key factors can influence the longevity of your results:
Age
If you’re younger, your skin tends to regenerate faster, and results can last longer because your fibroblasts the cells that produce collagen are already more active. With more mature skin, you might need extra maintenance sessions to keep that refreshed look.
Lifestyle Habits
Things like smoking, stress, and lack of sleep can speed up skin ageing and break down collagen more quickly. On the other hand, looking after yourself with a healthy lifestyle can help your results stick around.
Sun Exposure
UV rays damage collagen and elastin fibres, which can shorten how long your results last. Using daily SPF is essential if you want to maintain your new glow.
Diet and Hydration
Eating nutrient-rich foods and drinking plenty of water supports skin repair from within. If your diet lacks vitamins or you’re often dehydrated, your results may fade sooner.
Skincare Routine
A gentle, consistent skincare routine can help prolong your results. Using harsh exfoliants or skipping moisturiser can weaken your skin barrier and reduce the benefits of your treatment.
Treatment Quality
The technique your provider uses, the product itself, and the overall treatment plan make a big difference. Choosing an experienced clinic ensures your polynucleotide treatment in London is done safely and effectively, giving you the best chance of long-lasting results.
Maintenance Treatments: How Often Should You Repeat It?
To keep your skin looking and feeling its best, most dermatologists recommend starting with an initial course of 3–4 treatments, spaced about three weeks apart. This sets a strong foundation and gives your skin time to respond and build collagen.
After that, maintenance sessions help you hold onto your results. For most people, one session every 6–9 months is usually enough. If your skin is more mature or has significant sun damage, you might benefit from top-ups every 4–6 months to keep your skin looking its healthiest.
The good news is that maintenance treatments are usually quicker and more comfortable, since your skin is already in a healthier, more resilient state. Over time, these sessions help your results last longer, so you can enjoy smoother, more hydrated skin without starting from scratch each time.
Comparing Polynucleotide Longevity with Other Treatments
When you compare polynucleotides with other treatments, one thing stands out they offer a great balance between natural results and lasting effects. You can expect your results to last around six to twelve months, with skin looking healthier and more refreshed. Maintenance is usually needed every six to nine months, and downtime is minimal.
If your main goal is deep hydration, Profhilo might be the one for you. It keeps your skin glowing and smooth for about six to nine months, with no recovery time at all. Most people top up the treatment twice a year to maintain results.
Dermal fillers work by restoring lost volume and definition. They last longer around nine to eighteen months but you might need annual top-ups and expect one to two days of downtime.
With PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), you’re encouraging skin renewal from within. Results last six to twelve months, and you’ll usually need a session every six months. There’s a little downtime just a day or two before your skin fully settles.
And then there’s Botox, ideal if you want to soften expression lines. It lasts about three to six months and needs maintenance every three to four months, but there’s no downtime, so you can get straight back to your day.
Overall, polynucleotides are ideal if you want to enhance your skin’s quality rather than change your facial structure. They focus on subtle, long-lasting rejuvenation keeping your skin looking naturally healthy for months at a time.
Why Polynucleotides Last Longer Than Many Treatments
Polynucleotides can give longer-lasting results because they work with your skin biologically, not just mechanically. Unlike fillers that simply plump lines or treatments that relax muscles, polynucleotides help your skin rebuild itself from the inside out.
The collagen and elastin your body produces in response continue to support your skin long after the session is over. That means the improvements don’t just appear temporarily they keep strengthening your skin’s structure over time.
This regenerative approach gives you both immediate benefits and ongoing support, so the results feel natural, subtle, and sustainable. With polynucleotides, you’re not just masking ageing you’re actively helping your skin restore itself.
Combining Polynucleotides with Other Treatments for Extended Results
Many people choose to combine polynucleotide injections with other skin rejuvenation treatments to get even better and longer-lasting results.
For example, CO2 laser resurfacing can boost collagen production and help repair deeper texture issues. PRP therapy speeds up regeneration and healing, while microneedling improves product absorption and smooths skin texture. Hydrating facials are also a great way to maintain your post-treatment glow and keep your skin barrier healthy.
By pairing polynucleotides with the right treatments, you can address multiple concerns at once and extend the benefits of your sessions. Just make sure to chat with your dermatologist first so you know what’s safe and suitable for your skin type.
What Happens If You Don’t Maintain It?
If you choose not to maintain your treatments, your skin will gradually return to its pre-treatment state as collagen naturally breaks down over time.
The good news is that you won’t experience any sudden “reversal” or sagging your skin will simply age normally again.
However, with regular maintenance, you can sustain your results and even build upon them, keeping your skin in its healthiest, most youthful condition.
Are the Results Permanent?
Polynucleotide treatments aren’t permanent, but the results can last a long time. Since they work by stimulating your body’s own collagen and elastin production, the improvements gradually fade as these proteins naturally break down with age.
You can think of it like improving your fitness the benefits last longer if you keep up with regular care. Periodic top-up sessions help your skin stay healthy, hydrated, and looking its best, so you continue enjoying the results over time.
Another thing to keep in mind is that your lifestyle can influence how long the results last. If you look after your skin with daily SPF, a healthy diet, adequate hydration, and a gentle skincare routine, you’re giving your treatment the best chance to maintain its effects.
Finally, combining polynucleotides with occasional complementary treatments like microneedling or hydrating facials can further extend your results. These approaches help your skin stay strong, smooth, and resilient, so you can enjoy a refreshed and youthful appearance for months on end.
How to Make Results Last Longer
You can extend your results significantly by following a few simple habits:
- Wear sunscreen every day
Protecting your skin from UV damage helps preserve collagen and maintain your glow. - Stay hydrated
Well-hydrated skin keeps its elasticity, smoothness, and healthy appearance. - Eat skin-friendly foods
Include vitamin C, omega-3s, and antioxidants in your diet to support skin repair and resilience. - Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
Both can dehydrate your skin and speed up ageing, which may shorten your results. - Stick to professional skincare
Use gentle cleansers, peptides, and hyaluronic acid-based products recommended by your dermatologist. - Book regular reviews
Visiting your specialist every six months helps monitor progress and keep your results on track.
Following these steps can easily add several extra months to the longevity of your polynucleotide treatment results.
The Role of Collagen in Longevity
The key to why polynucleotide treatments work so well lies in collagen the protein that keeps your skin firm, smooth, and youthful.
As you get older, your collagen production naturally slows down by about 1% each year. Polynucleotides help by stimulating your fibroblasts, the cells responsible for making collagen, so your skin can rebuild its structure from the inside out.
Even after the injected product itself has been absorbed, the new collagen you’ve generated remains. That’s why you can enjoy longer-lasting results compared with many other injectable treatments your skin isn’t just temporarily plumped, it’s actively regenerating.
Cost and Value
In the UK, polynucleotide treatments usually cost between £250 and £500 per session, depending on the clinic and the area being treated.
While this might seem similar to other injectables, the long-term benefits and regenerative effects often make it a more worthwhile investment. You’re not just getting temporary results you’re helping your skin rebuild itself from within.
If you’re after subtle, natural-looking rejuvenation that lasts, booking a consultation with an experienced dermatologist in London can help you get the safest and most effective results.
Common Myths About Polynucleotide Longevity
Let’s clear up some common misconceptions so you know what to really expect:
- Myth: Results appear instantly
Truth: Improvements build gradually over several weeks, giving your skin a natural, subtle refresh. - Myth: Results fade completely after six months
Truth: Collagen continues to develop even after the treatment, so many people enjoy benefits that last a year or more. - Myth: You need monthly injections to maintain results
Truth: For most people, maintenance every 6–9 months is enough to keep your skin looking its best.
Knowing these facts helps you set realistic expectations and appreciate how regenerative treatments work, giving your skin long-term benefits rather than just a quick fix.
The Long-Term Benefits
Polynucleotide treatments don’t just improve the look of your skin they offer deeper, long-lasting benefits that keep your skin healthier over time:
- Strengthened skin barrier
Your skin becomes more resilient and better able to protect itself from environmental stressors, pollution, and minor irritations. - Improved healing response
Your skin repairs itself more efficiently, meaning that minor cuts, blemishes, or irritation heal faster than before. - Reduced inflammation and oxidative stress
By calming inflammation and counteracting free radicals, polynucleotides help slow down visible signs of ageing while keeping your skin feeling comfortable and balanced. - More youthful, radiant skin
Over time, your complexion becomes smoother, plumper, and more luminous, giving you a natural glow rather than an artificial or “done” look. - Long-lasting structural support
Even after the product has been metabolised, the collagen and elastin your skin produced remain, giving it a stronger, more elastic structure that continues to support healthy skin function. - Subtle, cumulative improvements
Because the treatment works at a cellular level, the benefits continue to build gradually. You might notice your skin looking better not just immediately after a session, but weeks and even months later. - Better results when combined with good skincare
Pairing polynucleotide treatments with gentle, dermatologist-approved products and healthy habits amplifies the effects, helping your skin stay supple, hydrated, and resilient for the long term.
With all these benefits, polynucleotides don’t just temporarily refresh your skin they actively help it become healthier, more youthful, and more resilient over time.
FAQs About Polynucleotide Treatments
1. How long do polynucleotide results last?
Polynucleotide results typically last between six and twelve months, although this can vary depending on your age, skin type, lifestyle habits, and how well you care for your skin after treatment. Younger skin and people who follow a consistent skincare routine often see results lasting toward the upper end of this range. Some patients even notice subtle improvements continuing beyond a year because the collagen and elastin production stimulated by the treatment has lasting effects.
2. How soon will I see improvements?
You’ll usually notice the first subtle changes in skin hydration, texture, and glow about three to four weeks after your initial session. Because polynucleotides work on a cellular level to stimulate collagen and elastin, the full effects develop gradually over a few months. Over time, you may also notice increased firmness, reduced fine lines, and a more even skin tone. The gradual progression makes the results feel natural rather than sudden or artificial.
3. How many sessions will I need?
Most people begin with a course of three to four treatments spaced around three weeks apart. This approach allows your skin to gradually rebuild its structure, improving texture, elasticity, and hydration. After completing the initial course, maintenance treatments every six to nine months are usually sufficient to sustain your results. If your skin is more mature or has significant sun damage, your dermatologist may recommend top-ups every four to six months to maintain optimal benefits.
4. Are polynucleotides safe?
Yes. Polynucleotides are derived from purified salmon DNA and are bio-compatible, meaning they mimic molecules already present in your skin. When administered by a trained and experienced dermatologist, the treatment is very safe, with minimal risk of side effects. Some people may experience slight redness, swelling, or mild bruising at the injection sites, but these usually resolve within a day or two.
5. Do polynucleotides change my facial shape?
No. Unlike dermal fillers or Botox, polynucleotides don’t alter your facial structure or freeze your muscles. They work at a cellular level to improve skin quality, stimulate collagen and elastin production, and strengthen your skin from within. The result is a natural, subtle rejuvenation that enhances your skin’s texture and elasticity without affecting your facial expressions.
6. Can I combine polynucleotides with other treatments?
Yes, many people combine polynucleotides with other skin rejuvenation treatments for enhanced and longer-lasting effects. For instance, CO2 laser resurfacing can repair deeper texture damage and stimulate collagen further, PRP therapy accelerates regeneration and healing, and microneedling improves product absorption while refining skin texture. Hydrating facials also help maintain your post-treatment glow. It’s important to consult your dermatologist before combining treatments to ensure they are safe and suitable for your skin type.
7. What affects how long results last?
Several factors influence how long you can enjoy the benefits of polynucleotides. Your age plays a role, as younger skin regenerates faster, while mature skin may require more frequent top-ups. Lifestyle habits such as smoking, stress, and lack of sleep can accelerate collagen breakdown. Sun exposure can damage collagen and elastin, so daily SPF is crucial. Diet and hydration also affect longevity, with nutrient-rich foods and adequate water intake supporting collagen production. Finally, the quality of your treatment, including your provider’s technique and the product used, can make a significant difference.
8. Is there any downtime?
Downtime after polynucleotide treatments is minimal. You might notice mild redness, slight swelling, or tiny bruises at the injection sites, but these typically resolve within a day or two. Because the treatment works gradually and subtly, most people can return to their normal daily activities immediately, making it convenient if you want effective skin rejuvenation without taking time off.
9. Are the results permanent?
Polynucleotide results aren’t permanent, but they are long-lasting. The treatment stimulates your body to produce collagen and elastin, which gradually degrade as part of the natural ageing process. You can think of it like building strength with exercise if you maintain regular treatments and good skincare, you can keep your skin looking healthy and youthful for months after your last session. Without maintenance, your skin will gradually return to its baseline, but the process is slow and natural.
10. How can I make my results last longer?
You can extend the benefits of polynucleotide treatments by adopting simple habits. Wearing sunscreen daily protects your collagen from UV damage, while staying hydrated keeps your skin plump and elastic. Eating nutrient-rich foods, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and following a gentle, dermatologist-recommended skincare routine all help maintain results. Booking regular reviews with your dermatologist every six months allows them to monitor your progress and recommend top-ups if needed. Combining polynucleotides with occasional complementary treatments, like microneedling or hydrating facials, also supports longer-lasting, healthier, and more radiant skin.
Final Thoughts: How Long Does Polynucleotide Treatment Last?
Polynucleotide treatments typically last 6–12 months, but their regenerative benefits go far beyond that timeline. The collagen and elastin they stimulate continue to improve your skin’s firmness, hydration, and resilience long after your final session.
For best results, a full treatment course followed by maintenance sessions every few months keeps your skin looking naturally youthful and radiant.
If you’re considering polynucleotides treatment in London, book a consultation with us at the London Dermatology Centre. Our expert dermatologists create personalised treatment plans tailored to your skin’s unique needs. With the right care and consistent sessions, you can enjoy healthier, more radiant skin that feels naturally rejuvenated and stands the test of time.
References:
1. Lampridou, S. (2024) ‘The Effectiveness of Polynucleotides in Esthetic Medicine: A Systematic Review’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.16721
2. Rho, N.K. (2025) ‘Clinical Efficacy and Safety of a Highly Purified Polynucleotide for Dry and Chapped Lips: A Prospective Multicenter Study’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.70224
3. Lee, K.W.A. (2024) ‘Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review of Current Practices and Perceived Effectiveness’, International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/15/8224
4. Ahmadi, M. (2024) ‘The Efficacy of Polynucleotide Injections in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review’, PMFA Journal. Available at: https://www.thepmfajournal.com/features/features/post/the-efficacy-of-polynucleotide-injections-in-aesthetic-medicine-a-review 5. Khan, A. (2022) ‘Polydeoxyribonucleotide: A Promising Skin Anti-Aging Agent’, Dermatologic Therapy. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2096691122000723