Polynucleotide Injection Side Effects & Their Management

Written by an Expert Aesthetic Content Writer Lisa.
Reviewed by Expert Medical Director Dr. Raj Thethi
Published on: January 20, 2025
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Polynucleotide Injection Side Effects

Polynucleotide injection side effects are not very common but these are important to discuss before getting this treatment. 

Polynucleotide injections are a type of skin treatment that uses DNA from fish suspended in a gel to repair and rejuvenate the skin. They improve elasticity, deeply hydrate, and encourage collagen production in your skin. The result? Healthier and more youthful-looking skin.

Like any cosmetic treatment, however, polynucleotide injection has some side effects. For a smoother recovery, knowing the side effects and their management can be helpful. 

This blog explores the various side effects of polynucleotide injection and how to manage them. 

Common Polynucleotide Injection Side Effects

While polynucleotide injections are well-tolerated, some common and temporary side effects may resolve within 24-48 hours. They include:

Redness 

Redness is common when you get polynucleotides under eyes. This is because the skin reacts to the injection process and its ingredients. The redness fades after a few hours or a day.

How to Cope Redness

  • To soothe your skin apply cold compresses.
  • Avoid touching or scratching the area.
  • Keep using gentle skincare products for a couple of days.

Swelling

A little swelling is expected and is part of the body’s healing process. It usually lasts one to two days.

How to Cope Swelling

  • Drink lots of water to promote your skin’s healing process.
  • Avoid salty foods as they can make swelling worse.
  • Sleep with your head in a raised position to reduce puffiness.

Bruising

Bruising can happen, especially when skin is thinner, such as under the eyes. This is because very small blood vessels can be damaged during the injection.

How to Cope with  Bruising 

  • Apply arnica gel to the bruised area to help it heal faster.
  • Do not take aspirin or blood-thinning medications before treatment (but consult your doctor first).
  • Use a light concealer if you want to hide the bruising temporarily.

Itching or Tenderness

You may experience some itching or tenderness at the injection site. This is usually due to your skin reacting to the treatment.

How to Deal with Itching or Tenderness

  • Do not scratch the area, as this may cause skin irritation.
  • Apply soothing aloe vera gel.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease tenderness if needed.

Now that you know the common side effects of polynucleotide injection treatment, let’s explore the rare ones. 

Rare Risks of Polynucleotide Injections

Some side effects of polynucleotide injection side effects are very rare and may need the attention of your doctor immediately; they include:

Allergic Reaction

Though rare, allergic reactions can be caused by the fish DNA used in polynucleotide injection. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and itching.

How to Manage Allergic Response

  • Seek medical care immediately if one suspects an allergic reaction.
  • They may dispense antihistamines or whatever other medication to help curb the allergy.

Infection

Though rare, infections can develop if improper hygiene is used during or after injections.

How to Manage Infection

  • Always attend a clinic known for sterility practices.
  • Do not touch the treated area with dirty hands.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience warmth, increased pain, or pus.

Granulomas

Granulomas are small lumps that occur when the body views the injection material as foreign. These can occur weeks or even months after treatment.

How to Manage Granulomas

  • Seek your doctor’s advice.
  • Sometimes, corticosteroid injections may dissolve the lumps.

Blocked Blood Vessels

Vascular occlusion can occur with a polynucleotide injection if the needle accidentally blocks a blood vessel while injecting the treatment. This can prevent blood from flowing properly to the area. It may also happen if the injection is too deep or if the needle accidentally hits a small blood vessel.

How to Cope Vascular Occlusion

  • It requires immediate medical attention.
  • Symptoms are severe pain, discolouration, or coolness in the area.
  • Early treatment prevents complications.

Minimising the Risks of Side Effects of Polynucleotide Injections

These practices can minimise the risk of side effects after polynucleotide treatment. 

Select an Experienced Practitioner

Always go to a certified and experienced doctor or aesthetic professional. Their expertise can greatly improve the treatment’s safety and success.

Ask Questions about the Treatment

Don’t hesitate to ask your practitioner about their techniques, hygiene protocols, and what you can expect during recovery.

Follow Pre-Treatment Advice

While preparing yourself for polynucleotide injections, follow these tips. 

  • Do not consume alcohol.
  • Discontinue blood-thinning medications. 
  • Do not perform strenuous exercises for 24 hours before your appointment.

Follow Post-Treatment Care

Skin care after polynucleotide injections is just as important as the treatment itself. Here are some top tips:

  • Drink lots of water to keep your skin healthy and help with recovery.
  • For at least 24 hours, avoid wearing makeup to let your skin heal.
  • Stay away from saunas, hot showers, and direct sunlight for a couple of days.
  • Avoid reaching or rubbing that part, as such a process might lead to the irritation of infection.
  • Attend regular follow-up appointments to confirm whether the treated area has recovered or healed.

Final Thoughts on Polynucleotide Injection Side Effects

Polynucleotide treatment is an excellent revamp for refreshing the skin’s elasticity and hydration rate. The most common side effects of polynucleotide injections may appear to be a slight redness or some swelling. Still, they should resolve on their own with a smooth and stress-free healing recovery, considering what to know when they appear.

Following after-care tips and consulting a qualified practitioner can minimise risks while allowing you to reap the benefits of rejuvenating treatment. Remember, little preparation and care can go a long way toward achieving the glow of healthy skin!

 

FAQs

1. What are the risks of polynucleotide injections? 

Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common side effects of polynucleotide injections, while rare risks may include allergic reactions and vascular occlusion.

2. Can polynucleotides go wrong?

Wrong placement or over-injection of the polynucleotides may cause this treatment to fail. However, getting it done by an expert reduces this risk.

3. What are the long-term side effects of polynucleotides?

In rare cases, the side effects of polynucleotide injections may stay longer, including persistent welling, allergy, and lumps. 

4. How long do polynucleotide injections last?

The effects of polynucleotide injections generally last for 4 to 6 months. Age, lifestyle habits, and skin conditions are some factors that may influence this duration.

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About the Author

Dr. Raj Thethi

Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC-registered medical clinic. It is led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetics. Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty.

View all posts by Dr. Raj Thethi

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