Polynucleotides vs Profhilo

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Dr Rami Haidar explains the differences between these two popular skin rejuvenation treatments

Written by the team at Dr Rami Haidar on X

In my clinic in Dubai, many patients are now asking about treatments that improve the quality of their skin rather than dramatically changing their facial features.

For years, dermal fillers were the most widely known injectable treatment. Today, however, there is growing interest in regenerative skin treatments that help the skin repair itself and maintain a healthier appearance over time.

Two treatments that often come up in these conversations are polynucleotides and Profhilo.

Both are designed to improve skin quality and stimulate natural processes within the skin, but they work in very different ways. Patients frequently ask which one is better, and the honest answer is that each treatment has its own role depending on the condition of the skin and the patient’s goals.

Understanding how they differ can make it easier to decide which option may be most suitable.

What are polynucleotides?

Polynucleotides are regenerative injectable treatments derived from purified fragments of DNA.

In aesthetic medicine, they are used to improve skin health by supporting cellular repair and stimulating collagen production. Once injected into the skin, polynucleotides in Jumeirah help create a more favourable environment for tissue regeneration.

Over time, this process can strengthen the skin and improve overall skin quality.

Polynucleotide treatments are often used to address concerns such as:

  • Thin or fragile skin
  • Fine lines and early ageing
  • Acne scarring
  • Dehydrated or dull skin
  • Delicate areas such as under the eyes

Because the treatment works by supporting regeneration, the improvements tend to develop gradually as the skin responds.

What is Profhilo?

Profhilo is an injectable treatment made from a highly concentrated form of hyaluronic acid.

Unlike dermal fillers, Profhilo is not used to add volume or reshape the face. Instead, it spreads beneath the skin and helps improve hydration and elasticity.

The treatment stimulates collagen and elastin production while deeply hydrating the skin. This combination can lead to smoother, firmer and more radiant skin.

Profhilo is commonly used to treat:

  • Loss of skin elasticity
  • Fine lines and crepey skin
  • Dull or dehydrated skin
  • Early signs of skin ageing
  • Skin laxity in the face and neck

Many patients appreciate Profhilo because it improves skin quality without changing facial structure.

Which treatment is better for ageing skin?

Patients often ask whether polynucleotides or Profhilo is better for anti-ageing.

The answer depends on what changes are occurring in the skin.

Polynucleotides may be particularly helpful when the skin is fragile, damaged or in need of repair. They are also commonly used in delicate areas where the skin is thin.

Profhilo may be more suitable for patients experiencing:

  • Loss of elasticity
  • Dehydrated skin
  • Mild skin laxity
  • Early signs of ageing

In many cases, both treatments can be used as part of a long-term skin health strategy.

 

How the treatments work differently

Although both treatments aim to improve the skin, the mechanism behind them is quite different.

Polynucleotides focus primarily on skin regeneration and repair, helping damaged or weakened tissue recover over time.

Profhilo, on the other hand, focuses on hydration and biostimulation, improving skin elasticity and encouraging collagen production.

A simple way to understand the difference is:

TreatmentPrimary effect

Polynucleotides

Skin repair and regeneration

Profhilo

Deep hydration and collagen stimulation

Both approaches can improve skin quality, but they target slightly different biological processes.

Which treatment is better for ageing skin?

Patients often ask whether polynucleotides or Profhilo is better for anti-ageing.

The answer depends on what changes are occurring in the skin.

Polynucleotides may be particularly helpful when the skin is fragile, damaged or in need of repair. They are also commonly used in delicate areas where the skin is thin.

Profhilo may be more suitable for patients experiencing:

  • Loss of elasticity
  • Dehydrated skin
  • Mild skin laxity
  • Early signs of ageing

In many cases, both treatments can be used as part of a long-term skin health strategy.

 

“Polynucleotides focus on repairing the skin, while Profhilo focuses on hydration and elasticity — both can improve skin quality, but through different mechanisms.” – Dr Rami Haidar


Can polynucleotides and Profhilo be combined?

Yes, in some cases these treatments can complement each other.

Because they work through different mechanisms, combining them can sometimes improve overall skin quality more effectively than using one treatment alone.

For example, polynucleotides may help repair and strengthen the skin while Profhilo improves hydration and elasticity.

However, the decision to combine treatments should always be based on careful assessment of the patient’s skin.

What results can patients expect?

Both treatments aim to improve the skin gradually rather than producing immediate dramatic changes.

As the skin responds to treatment, patients may notice:

  • Brighter skin tone
  • Improved hydration
  • Smoother skin texture
  • Increased skin elasticity
  • Healthier looking skin overall

These improvements typically develop over several weeks as collagen production increases and the skin regenerates.

Most patients benefit from a course of treatments spaced several weeks apart.

Why consultation is important

One of the most important things I explain to patients is that there is no universal “best” treatment.

Every patient’s skin is different, and factors such as age, sun exposure, lifestyle and previous treatments all influence the most suitable approach.

When patients visit my clinic in Dubai, I evaluate several factors before recommending a treatment plan, including:

  • Skin thickness and quality
  • Degree of ageing or sun damage
  • Hydration levels
  • Pigmentation or scarring
  • Overall treatment goals

Sometimes polynucleotides are the best option. In other situations, Profhilo may be more appropriate.

The goal is always to select the treatment that will improve skin health in the most natural and effective way.

“The key to good results is not choosing the most popular treatment, but choosing the right treatment for the patient’s skin.”

 

A regenerative approach to skin rejuvenation

Modern aesthetic medicine is increasingly focused on treatments that support the skin’s natural biology.

Rather than dramatically altering the face, regenerative treatments such as polynucleotides and Profhilo aim to strengthen the skin and maintain its health over time.

When used appropriately, both treatments can play an important role in maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Polynucleotides vs Profhilo FAQs

What is the difference between polynucleotides and Profhilo?

Polynucleotides work by supporting skin repair and regeneration, while Profhilo improves hydration and stimulates collagen and elastin production.

Which treatment is better for skin rejuvenation?

Both treatments can improve skin quality, but they work differently. The most suitable option depends on the condition of the skin and the patient’s goals.

Are polynucleotides the same as Salmon DNA injections?

Yes. Polynucleotide treatments are sometimes referred to as Salmon DNA injections because the DNA fragments are derived from salmon.

How many treatments are usually needed?

Most patients benefit from two to three sessions spaced several weeks apart, although the exact number can vary.

When will I see results?

Results develop gradually over several weeks as the skin responds to treatment and collagen production increases.

Is there downtime after treatment?

Downtime is typically minimal. Mild swelling or small bumps may appear temporarily after injections.

Can polynucleotides and Profhilo be combined?

Yes, in some cases the treatments can complement each other as part of a personalised skin rejuvenation plan.

Are these treatments the same as dermal fillers?

No. Dermal fillers are used to restore volume and contour, while polynucleotides and Profhilo improve skin quality.

How long do results last?

Results can last several months depending on the patient’s skin condition and lifestyle.

Is consultation required before treatment?

Yes. A consultation allows the doctor to assess the skin and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

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