Comparing Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Polynucleotides (PN)

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In the ever-evolving world of skincare and aesthetics, two ingredients are taking center stage: hyaluronic acid and polynucleotides. These powerhouse compounds are making waves in treatments and products alike, each offering unique benefits for achieving healthier, more radiant skin.

Hyaluronic acid has long been a skincare staple—celebrated for its unmatched ability to hydrate, plump, and smooth the skin. Found in everything from moisturizers to dermal fillers Malaysia like Juvederm Malaysia and Restylane, it delivers immediate, visible results that make it a go-to for anyone seeking a quick glow-up.

Polynucleotides, meanwhile, are emerging as the latest innovation in regenerative aesthetics. Rather than offering a temporary boost, these DNA-derived molecules work beneath the surface to stimulate collagen production, promote skin healing, and improve overall texture and elasticity over time. Treatments like Rejuran and Plinest are quickly gaining popularity for their long-term rejuvenating effects.

Whether you’re looking for instant hydration or deeper skin regeneration, understanding the differences between hyaluronic acid and polynucleotides can help you make a more informed choice—and find the right solution for your skin’s needs.

Also read: Hyaluronic Acid or Collagen Biostimulator -What’s best?

Overview of Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

In the world of medical aesthetics, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are a popular choice for a good reason. They’re well-loved for their impressive safety record, natural-looking results, and Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in your skin and helps maintain hydration and voulume. It is a molecule that’s naturally found throughout your body’s connective tissues, with particularly high concentrations in your skin, eyes, and joints.

In the world of medical aesthetics, HA fillers have earned their superstar status for good reason. They’re beloved for their impressive safety record, natural-looking results, and quick recovery time. These fillers are designed to be non-immunological and biocompatible, meaning they’re less likely to cause allergic reactions and generally play nice with our bodies.

HA fillers consist of long-chain hyaluronic acid molecules that are cross-linked using a substance called 1,4-butanedioldiglycidyl ether (BDDE), which helps them maintain their structure and last longer in your skin. This cross-linking is what transforms hyaluronic acid from a simple moisturizer to a powerful volumizing agent.

One of HA’s standout features is its versatility. These fillers are long-lasting but not permanent, and if needed, they can be reversed with an enzyme called hyaluronidase – a safety net that many patients find reassuring.

How Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Work

Injectable hyaluronic acid provides immediate results that can last 6-12 months depending on the formulation. When injected beneath the skin, HA fillers work through three primary mechanisms:

Immediate Volume Restoration: The gel-like substance physically fills depressions and wrinkles, providing instant plumping.

Water Attraction: Once in place, the HA continues to draw water to the area, enhancing the volumizing effect.

Structural Support: The filler provides a supportive scaffold within the skin, helping to maintain shape and contour.

Different HA formulations vary in their molecular weight, cross-linking (how the molecules are bound together), and concentration, which affects their thickness, longevity, and ideal placement areas. Some are designed for superficial lines, while others are better suited for deep volume replacement or lip enhancement.

Overview of Polynucleotides (PNs)

Polynucleotide treatments work by stimulating your skin’s natural regeneration processes. Unlike hyaluronic acid, which is primarily a volumizing agent, polynucleotides (PNs) are biological molecules derived from the DNA of marine organisms, typically salmon or trout.

These purified DNA fragments contain nucleotides – the building blocks of DNA – arranged in specific sequences that can interact with your skin cells to promote healing and regeneration. The most common form used in aesthetic medicine is polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), which has been extensively studied for its regenerative properties.

The science behind polynucleotide therapy shows promising results for long-term skin improvement. Rather than simply filling wrinkles, PNs work at a cellular level to improve the quality and function of your skin over time.

How Polynucleotide Treatments Work

When polynucleotides are injected into your skin, they trigger a fascinating cascade of biological events. Unlike fillers that simply “fill” space, polynucleotides work more like biological messengers, instructing your cells to step up their game.

Here’s what happens when polynucleotides enter your skin:

Cell Receptor Activation: PNs activate specific cell receptors (particularly adenosine A2A receptors), triggering a cascade of regenerative processes.

Fibroblast Stimulation: They encourage fibroblasts – the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin – to increase their activity.

Improved Microcirculation: PNs enhance blood flow to treated areas, bringing more nutrients and oxygen to skin cells.

DNA Repair Support: They provide building blocks that support the skin’s natural DNA repair mechanisms.

Many aesthetic clinics now offer polynucleotide injections as an alternative to traditional fillers, particularly for patients seeking more natural-looking, progressive improvements rather than immediate volume changes.

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Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers & Polynucleotides Treatments

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid treatments have earned their stellar reputation for good reason. Their most compelling advantage is the immediate results they deliver – you’ll walk out of the clinic looking refreshed and rejuvenated. The predictable outcomes make treatment planning straightforward, as these are well-established procedures with consistent results.

The versatility of HA products means they can address a wide range of concerns, from fine lines and deep wrinkles to lip enhancement and volume restoration. One of the most reassuring aspects of HA fillers is their reversibility – if you’re unhappy with results or experience complications, they can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, a specialized enzyme that breaks down the filler.

HA fillers boast an excellent safety profile, being extremely well-tolerated with minimal risk of allergic reactions since hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the human body. For busy individuals, the minimal downtime is particularly appealing – most people return to normal activities the same day, perhaps with some minor swelling or bruising that quickly subsides.

Limitations of Hyaluronic Acid

Despite their popularity, HA treatments aren’t without drawbacks. Perhaps the most significant limitation is the temporary nature of results, which typically last 6-18 months depending on the specific product and area treated. This necessitates regular maintenance treatments to preserve the effects.

HA fillers offer limited regenerative effects, primarily filling rather than repairing skin at a cellular level. In some cases, there’s potential for migration, where the product moves slightly from the injection site. Critics point out that HA treatments represent a surface-level approach, addressing symptoms rather than underlying skin aging causes.

Technical complications can occur, such as the Tyndall effect (a bluish discoloration if the filler is placed too superficially) or visible lumps if the product isn’t properly distributed. The need for multiple treatments over time also means a long-term financial commitment to maintain results.

Benefits of Polynucleotides

The regenerative properties of polynucleotides set them apart in the aesthetic market – they actually improve skin quality at a cellular level rather than just temporarily masking issues. Users appreciate the natural-looking results, which enhance without changing facial features or creating an “overfilled” appearance.

One of the most exciting aspects of PN treatments is the progressive improvement, where results build and improve over time as your skin’s natural regenerative processes are activated. Their anti-inflammatory effects make them suitable for conditions like rosacea and post-acne inflammation, while their excellent safety profile means they’re compatible with sensitive skin types that might react to other treatments.

The versatile applications of PNs extend beyond the face to the neck, décolletage, hands, and body areas that can be challenging to treat with traditional fillers. They show particular promise for scar improvement, especially acne scarring and atrophic scars that have previously been difficult to address effectively.

Limitations of Polynucleotides

The primary limitation of PN treatments is delayed gratification – full results may take 1-3 months to develop, which can be frustrating for those seeking immediate improvement. Most protocols require multiple sessions for optimal results, typically spaced several weeks apart, requiring commitment to the treatment process.

Unlike HA fillers, PNs won’t replace lost volume, making them unsuitable for concerns like deep nasolabial folds or significant volume loss in the midface. They often come with a higher cost compared to standard HA treatments, particularly when factoring in the multiple sessions recommended.

As a relatively newer treatment option, PNs have limited long-term research compared to established fillers, though early studies and clinical experience show promising results. The treatment outcomes are practitioner dependent, with results heavily influenced by injection technique and protocol – making choosing an experienced provider particularly important.

Hyalunoric Acid Filler vs Polynucleotides Treatment

Similarities of Hyaluronic Acid Filler & Polynucleotide Treatment

Both hyaluronic acid and polynucleotides represent innovative approaches to skin rejuvenation, sharing several important similarities despite their different mechanisms. Both are injectable treatments used for skin rejuvenation, delivered through similar minimally invasive techniques. They both can improve skin hydration and appearance, though through different pathways.

Safety is a priority for both treatments, with good safety profiles and minimal downtime compared to more invasive procedures. Both substances are biodegradable and naturally metabolized by the body, reducing concerns about long-term foreign material presence. Many practitioners successfully combine these treatments with other aesthetic procedures to enhance overall results. Finally, both require maintenance treatments for continued results, though on different schedules.

Differences Between Hyaluronic Acid Filler & Polynucleotide Treatment

Characteristic	Hyaluronic Acid	Polynucleotides
Source	Synthetic version of naturally occurring substance	Derived from salmon or trout DNA
Primary Action	Adds immediate volume and hydration	Stimulates cellular regeneration and repair
Results Timeline	Immediate results visible after treatment	Gradual improvement over several weeks
Duration	6-18 months depending on product	Results can last 6-9 months with maintenance
Treatment Goal	Volume restoration and wrinkle filling	Overall skin quality improvement and rejuvenation
Best For	Deep volume loss, facial contouring, deep wrinkles	Skin laxity, poor texture, overall rejuvenation
Treatment Protocol	Often single session with periodic maintenance	Typically series of 3-4 initial treatments
Skin Priming	Not typically used as a primer	Excellent as skin primer before other treatments

Research published in scientific journals has shown that while HA provides superior immediate hydration and volume, PNs demonstrate better long-term improvement in skin elasticity, texture, and overall quality. The result? A smoother, more lifted look and that healthy radiance you might be missing.

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Which One Should You Choose?

The decision between HA and PN treatments isn’t simply about which is “better” – it’s about which is better for YOUR specific needs and goals. Choosing the right treatment depends on understanding your skin concerns, treatment priorities, and personal preferences.

When to Choose Hyaluronic Acid Filler

Hyaluronic acid might be your perfect match if you want immediate, visible results without waiting weeks to see improvement. It’s ideal if you’re addressing specific deep wrinkles or folds that need volumizing, such as nasolabial lines or marionette lines. If you need volume restoration in areas like cheeks or lips, HA fillers offer precise control over shape and projection.

For those new to aesthetic treatments and wanting something reversible (just in case!), HA provides peace of mind with its dissolvability. If you have a special event coming up and need a quick refresh, HA delivers that instant gratification many of us crave. The treatment protocol typically involves fewer sessions with longer intervals between maintenance treatments, making it convenient for busy schedules.

HA is particularly suitable if you’re primarily concerned with adding volume rather than improving skin quality, or if you have specific areas of concern rather than wanting overall skin rejuvenation. The predictability of results makes it excellent for targeted corrections with visible immediate improvement.

When to Choose Polynucleotide Treatment

Polynucleotides might be your skincare soulmate if you’re willing to wait for results that build over time in exchange for deeper skin quality improvements. If your primary concern is improving overall skin quality, texture, and elasticity rather than adding volume, PNs address these fundamental aspects of skin health effectively.

Those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea often find PNs well-tolerated due to their anti-inflammatory properties. If you’re in your 20s or 30s looking for a “prejuvenation” approach (preventing aging before it happens), PNs support long-term skin health without changing your appearance dramatically.

PN treatments deliver natural-looking results without volume changes, ideal if you want enhancement without looking “done.” They’re particularly effective for acne scarring or other atrophic scars that don’t respond well to traditional fillers. For addressing crepey skin on the neck, décolletage, or hands – areas where fillers can look unnatural – PNs offer impressive improvement without adding bulk.

If you’re looking for longer-term skin improvements and are willing to invest in a series of treatments (3 - 4 sessions, spaced 14-28 days apart), the progressive results of PNs can be well worth the patience required.

HA favourable	PNs favourable	Combination treatment favourable
Deep volume loss	Minimal or no facial volume loss	Volume loss + skin laxity
Deep nasolabial folds	Mild nasolabial folds	Poor skin texure
Deep marionette folds	Mild marionette folds	Poor skin hydration
Deep pre-jowl sulcus	Skin laxity	Visible pores
Facial contouring desired (eg:chin, jawline, lips)	Poor skin hydrations	Wishes to treat signs of ageing and prevent future of ageing
Volume restoration is a chief concern	Chief concerns: skin quality/hydration/texture/pore size/ scarring	Able to attend at 3 to 6 months intervals for maintenance treatments.
Patients want immediate results.	Preventing ageing Restock collagen ‘banking’
	Skin priming desired. (eg: before surgery, laser, rediofrequency, microneedling)

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FDA-Approved Injectable Products Available at Dream Clinic

Popular Hyaluronic Acid Filler

• Juvederm Malaysia: A versatile family of HA fillers with different formulations for various facial areas

• Restylane: Another widely used line of HA fillers with options for different treatment needs

• Teosyal: A range of HA fillers designed for specific facial areas and concerns

• Belotero: Known for its soft, natural-looking results

• NCTF 135 HA: A mesotherapy product combining HA with vitamins and nutrients

Popular Polynucleotide Treatment

• Rejuran: Derived from salmon DNA, popular for its skin healing properties

• Plinest: A PN-based product known for skin regeneration benefits

Benefits of Combination Treatment

Are you thinking “why choose when I can have both?” You’re onto something! Many practitioners now offer combination approaches where HA and PN complement each other perfectly. HA provides the immediate gratification we all crave, while PN works behind the scenes for those long-term results that keep getting better with time.

The combination approach is particularly effective for mature skin needing both volume restoration and quality improvement. Post-menopausal women experiencing multiple signs of aging benefit from addressing both the structural and cellular aspects of skin aging simultaneously. Sun-damaged skin requiring comprehensive rejuvenation responds well to this dual approach, as does anyone seeking both immediate and progressive, long-lasting results.

Remember, the best person to guide this decision is a qualified aesthetic practitioner who can assess your unique skin condition and tailor treatments to your specific needs. A personalized treatment plan might include either option alone or a strategic combination for optimal results.

Conclusion

The world of aesthetic treatments offers more options than ever before, and the choice between hyaluronic acid and polynucleotides doesn’t have to be an either/or situation. Many patients achieve the best results through thoughtfully combined approaches that leverage the immediate volumizing benefits of HA fillers alongside the regenerative, long-term improvements from polynucleotides.

What’s even more exciting is the powerful synergy that can be achieved when combining HA fillers with polynucleotides, Plinest. This dynamic duo not only maximizes the immediate plumping and smoothing effects of HA but also enhances long-term skin rejuvenation and repair through the regenerative properties of PNs. By leveraging the strengths of both treatments, you can enjoy a more holistic approach to skincare that addresses both instant results and lasting improvements.

Contact skin specialist from Penang or visit our aesthetic clinic at KL for consultation. Let us assess your skin and create a tailored plan that may include the synergistic benefits of both HA fillers and polynucleotides to bring out your natural beauty. Book your appointment now and take the first step towards the glowing skin you deserve!

References:

1. Cavallini, M., Bartoletti, E., Maioli, L., Massirone, A., Palmieri, I. P., Papagni, M., Priori, M., & Trocchi, G. (2020). Consensus report on the use of PN‐HPTTM (polynucleotides highly purified technology) in aesthetic medicine. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 20(3), 922–928. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13679

2. Micheels, P., & Eng, M. O. (2018). Rheological Properties of several Hyaluronic Acid-Based gels: A comparative study. PubMed, 17(9), 948–954. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30235380