Polynucleotides Berlin – Regenerating Skin Quality
The polynucleotides we use are not conventional fillers. PolyPhil™ and PolyPhil™ Eye are not used to build volume or reshape facial contours. The focus is skin quality and regeneration.
They are used most often where the skin is thin and delicate: around the eyes.
What are polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are purified, long-chain DNA fragments. We use PolyPhil™ and PolyPhil™ Eye, manufactured by Mastelli S.r.l. in Italy and distributed by Croma-Pharma, produced using the PN-HPT® process.
According to the manufacturer, the polynucleotides are obtained in a fully controlled environment and highly purified using the PN-HPT® process at a European production facility.
One distinction is frequently blurred: polynucleotides (PN) are on average longer-chain, while PDRN refers to shorter fragments. The adenosine A2A receptor mechanism has been studied primarily for PDRN. Whether, and to what extent, those findings transfer to long-chain PN is less well established.
The two preparations we use
PolyPhil™ contains 40 mg of polynucleotides per 2 ml. It is intended for the face, neck, décolletage and backs of the hands; the manufacturer also names acne scars and stretch marks among its applications. It is placed intradermally, in microdroplets or with a linear technique.
PolyPhil™ Eye contains 15 mg per 2 ml and is therefore lower in concentration. It is intended for the eye contour and the eyelids, the thinnest skin on the face, and is placed at the same depth.
Which of the two applies, and whether either does, is decided after the examination. The two are often used in one session, because the eye area and the rest of the face tolerate different concentrations.
What the evidence shows
Polynucleotides do not work through volume but through the cell. The manufacturer names four points of action, each with a literature reference: they bind moisture, scavenge free radicals, increase the number and viability of fibroblasts, and raise collagen synthesis.
In cell cultures, polynucleotides produced a higher expression of collagen 1a1 and collagen 3a1 than the control, with no signs of fibrosis. In a clinical evaluation, 91 per cent of those treated were described as showing an improvement in superficial fine lines and skin quality.
We say this plainly: the evidence comes largely from observational work and consensus papers, not from large randomised trials. That distinction matters for what you can expect.
How many sessions are usual?
The manufacturer names three sessions 14 to 21 days apart for normal skin and four sessions for ageing skin, each followed by maintenance. Scars and acne scars follow their own protocol. What makes sense in your case is decided after the examination.
Sources
Cavallini M et al., Consensus report on the use of PN-HPT in aesthetic medicine, J Cosmet Dermatol 2021;20(3):922–928. Cavallini M, Papagni M, Long chain polynucleotides gel and skin biorevitalization, Int J Plast Dermatol 2007;3(3):27–32. Araco A, Araco F, Highly purified polynucleotide versus placebo in moderate to severe acne scars, Aesthetic Surgery Journal 2021;41(7):NP866–NP874. Product information Croma-Pharma, PolyPhil.
How do polynucleotides work?
After injection, the hydrophilic polynucleotide chains may form a scaffold-like matrix and support an environment associated with fibroblast activity and tissue remodelling. The approach is regenerative rather than volumising.
The effect builds gradually across several sessions. A single treatment is not a completed course.
Key Benefits
Supporting skin regeneration
The fragment chains support an environment associated with the activity of collagen-forming cells.
Designed for the eye area
PolyPhil™ Eye is specifically intended for treatment of the eye contour and eyelids and contains PN-HPT 15 mg/2 ml.
No volume building
The treatment does not alter facial features or reshape contours.
Built over several sessions
Several appointments approximately two to four weeks apart are typical.
Performed by a physician
All injectable treatments are carried out by a physician, never delegated.
When are polynucleotides suitable?
Suitable where skin quality, hydration and elasticity are the priority: the face, the eye area, the neck, the décolleté or the backs of the hands.
Not suitable where volume loss is to be restored or contours defined. Depending on the findings, other approaches may apply, such as Ultherapy PRIME®, a biostimulator such as Sculptra® or Radiesse®. Where skin quality is the focus, Profhilo® may also be considered.
The treatment is not carried out in cases including autoimmune disease, pregnancy and breastfeeding, patients under 18, acute inflammation or infection in the treatment area, or known allergy to fish or fish products or hypersensitivity to any product component. Individual suitability is assessed by a physician beforehand.
What results are possible?
The result develops over weeks. Initial changes in skin quality are typically noticed after several weeks, with the overall result over roughly two to three months.
On the evidence, honestly: a systematic review of aesthetic use identified nine studies covering 219 treated patients, of low to moderate methodological quality. A more recent review of randomised trials, comprising seven RCTs and 183 participants, confirms an overall promising but still limited evidence base. Neither supports efficacy promises or reliable claims about duration.
Treatment information
- Treatment areas: face, eye area, neck, décolleté, backs of the hands
- Duration: approximately 20 to 30 minutes
- Sessions: typically three, approximately two to four weeks apart. Number and spacing depend on the product, the area and the individual findings.
- Sensation: individual; brief pricking and a feeling of pressure are possible
- Downtime: usually none; temporary bumps, redness or small bruises are possible
- Cost: from €280 per session
Support skin quality, elasticity and hydration, medically and step by step.
Treatment at The Retreat Berlin
The treatment is carried out by a physician. Product selection, injection technique and session intervals are determined by the findings, the area and the condition of the skin. Before the first treatment we discuss suitability, contraindications and realistic expectations in person.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
They support the skin’s regenerative capacity: hydration, elasticity and texture. They do not build volume and do not replace a tightening procedure.
At The Retreat, from €280 per session. Because the effect builds across several sessions, plan accordingly for a full course.
Hyaluronic acid skin boosters work primarily through hydration and the physical properties of hyaluronic acid. Polynucleotides are DNA-based biomaterials for which additional regenerative and matrix-related effects are under investigation. Both address skin quality, but through different product concepts.
Mainly local reactions are described: redness, swelling, small bumps at the injection points and occasionally bruising. These are usually temporary.
Polynucleotide treatments are often described this way in everyday language. That description does not apply to the PolyPhil™ we use. According to the manufacturer, the polynucleotides come from controlled sourcing and are highly purified using the PN-HPT® process. What is injected is highly purified polynucleotide chains, not fish cells or sperm. Other PN and PDRN products may be derived from other fish species, including salmon. The popular term therefore says little about which product is actually being used.
Would you like to know whether polynucleotides are suitable for you?
That can only be assessed reliably after a personal examination. We take the time for a medical assessment and discuss which approach suits your skin.