Polynucleotide injections are revolutionizing aesthetic medicine by moving beyond simple correction to true cellular rejuvenation. Unlike treatments that just fill lines, polynucleotides work as a biological signal, instructing your skin to repair itself from within. If you’re considering this treatment, understanding the journey—from the moment you leave the clinic to the peak of your results—is key to a successful outcome.
At Oblique, we believe an informed patient is a confident one. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect after your polynucleotide treatment, providing a clear timeline and essential aftercare tips to maximise your stunning, natural-looking results.
The Immediate Aftermath: The First 24-48 Hours
Immediately following your treatment, it’s perfectly normal to experience some minor localised reactions. These are signs that the healing process has begun.
What You’ll Likely See and Feel:
- Redness: The treatment area will appear red, similar to a mild sunburn, due to the micro-injections.
- Swelling: Mild puffiness or swelling is common as your skin reacts to the initial stimulus.
- Small Bumps or Papules: You will be able to feel tiny bumps at the injection sites. These are small deposits of the product just under the skin and are a completely normal part of the process.
- Tenderness: The area may feel slightly tender to the touch.
This is the “minimal downtime” period. While you might not be ready for a close-up photoshoot, these effects are temporary and typically subside significantly within 24 to 48 hours. The tiny bumps will flatten as the polynucleotide solution integrates and spreads within the skin tissue.
Your Essential Aftercare Plan: Maximising Your Investment
Proper aftercare is not just about comfort; it’s crucial for ensuring optimal product integration and preventing complications. Follow these steps for the best start to your rejuvenation journey:
- Hands Off: Avoid touching, rubbing, or applying pressure to the treated area for at least 6-8 hours. This prevents product displacement and reduces the risk of infection.
- Skip the Makeup: Allow your skin to breathe and the microscopic injection channels to close fully. Avoid applying any makeup for at least 12-24 hours.
- Postpone Intense Sweat: Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, and hot yoga for 48 hours. Heat and sweat can increase swelling and inflammation.
- Be a Skincare Minimalist: For the first 2-3 days, stick to a gentle cleanser, a bland moisturizer, and a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30+). Avoid active ingredients like retinoids, alpha/beta hydroxy acids (AHAs/BHAs), and vitamin C, as they can cause irritation.
- Hydrate from Within: Drink plenty of water. Hydration supports the skin’s natural healing processes and helps the polynucleotides optimize the skin’s moisture levels.
- Sleep Smart: Try to sleep on your back for the first night or two to avoid putting pressure on the treated areas, which can help minimize asymmetry in swelling.
The Transformation Timeline: When to Expect Results
Polynucleotides are not an instant fix; they are a long-term investment in your skin’s health. The results unfold gradually as your body’s natural regenerative processes kick into high gear.
- Week 1-2: The Calm After the Storm. Any initial redness and swelling have completely resolved. You may not see dramatic visual changes yet, but beneath the surface, the polynucleotides are beginning their work, sending signals to your fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen and elastin).
- Weeks 3-4: The “Glow” Emerges. This is when many patients start to notice the first visible benefits. Your skin will likely appear more hydrated, radiant, and plump. Fine lines may begin to look softened as the skin’s moisture barrier is enhanced.
- Months 1-3: The Turning Point. As your body produces new collagen and elastin, you’ll see more structural improvements. Skin texture becomes noticeably smoother, elasticity improves, and a firmer, more toned appearance emerges. This is the phase where concerns like mild laxity, enlarged pores, and acne scarring show significant improvement.
- Months 4-6: Peak Results. Your results will reach their peak around the six-month mark. The cumulative effect of increased collagen leads to firmer, more youthful-looking skin with improved density. The anti-inflammatory properties of polynucleotides will have also helped to calm redness and create a more even skin tone.
How Long Do Results Last? The Key to Longevity
The results of polynucleotide treatments are long-lasting because they are built on a foundation of new, healthy collagen. While individual metabolism and lifestyle factors play a role, most patients enjoy visible results for 9 to 12 months.
To achieve and maintain optimal results, we typically recommend an initial course of 2-3 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. This “loading phase” ensures a consistent biological signal for robust collagen stimulation. After this, a single maintenance treatment every 9-12 months is usually sufficient to sustain your skin’s renewed health and vitality.
Why Choose a Medical Practitioner for Your Polynucleotide Treatment?
The success of your treatment hinges on the skill and expertise of the injector. At Oblique, our medically trained practitioners possess an in-depth understanding of facial anatomy, ensuring the product is placed at the correct depth for maximum efficacy and safety. During your comprehensive consultation, we will:
- Assess your skin’s unique needs and concerns.
- Develop a fully personalised treatment plan.
- Discuss realistic expectations and the projected timeline for your results.
- Ensure you are a suitable candidate for the treatment.
Ready to Begin Your Skin’s Regeneration Journey?
Polynucleotide therapy represents a fundamental shift in aesthetic care, focusing on true skin health for lasting beauty. If you are ready to invest in a treatment that works with your biology to rejuvenate your complexion from the inside out, we invite you to book a consultation with our expert team at Oblique.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a revitalized, more radiant you.