Polynucleotide treatment is rising as a groundbreaking aesthetic and regenerative medicine for skin rejuvenation, tissue healing and anti-ageing. Yet, for all its attributes, like any other treatments in medicine, it possesses potential risks that need to be mitigated if patients are going to remain safe and achieve the most successful result. Having outlined the risks and complications attributed to polynucleotide therapy, this article will also provide a thorough review of various best practices associated with it. These guidelines help aestheticians to improve the results of the treatment and decrease adverse events.
What are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine are biomolecules which consist of long sequences of nucleotides, the basic units in DNA and RNA. They act as a healing agent to help repair skin cells and increase moisture. Polynucleotides also help create a perfect environment for fibroblasts, which are the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin in our skin, resulting in healthier-looking and younger skin. They also contain anti-inflammatory agents, which help to decrease oxidative stress and tissue regeneration.
Applications of Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine
Polynucleotides have entered the field of aesthetics in several key application areas, which include:
- Hair hydration and revitalisation: Injection of polynucleotides helps the skin cells in the scalp to retain water, thus, maintaining the hair as radiant as it can be.
- Anti-wrinkles. Polynucleotides aid in the production of collagen to reduce wrinkles and fine lines making your patients look younger, an anti-ageing agent.
- Scars: Polynucleotide therapy is also associated with tissue recovery for the treatment of scars (acne or surgical) in the field of aesthetic medicine.
- Post-procedure recovery: Polynucleotides can be used in conjunction with procedures like microneedling or laser resurfacing, as they minimise the time of recovery and accelerates healing.
Despite the potential value of these aesthetic treatments, it is also our responsibility as healthcare professionals to understand the risks that come with it and manage them appropriately.
Common Polynucleotide Risks and Complications
Polynucleotide therapy is generally safe, but it does have some risks. There are a variety of potential symptoms that extend from mild and temporary to serious complications that can be life-threatening.
Mild Side Effects
Redness and swelling are common mild side effects. This is a natural inflammatory response at the site of injection, which typically resolves within about 24 to 72 hours.
Bruises can be seen, which are commonly caused by improper injection technique or injury to a vein. These typically should not last more than 1-2 weeks after the procedure.
Patients should also expect a brief period of itching following microdermabrasion. Doctors should be prepared with pain management options like topical creams or antihistamines.
Moderate to Severe Complications
Although polynucleotides are biocompatible to the human body, there can be cases of allergic reaction with symptoms such as rashes, swelling and even anaphylaxis.
Contamination of the solution due to poor injection methodology or sub-standard sterilisation will introduce bacteria that can lead to localised infections, such as lesions at the implant site or systematic infection.
In addition, wrong placement of product(s) or over-injection can lead to lumps that are felt on the skin, needing correction.
Patients may also experience swelling or inflammation from days to weeks after polynucleotide treatment, requiring immediate medical attention.
This knowledge can help practitioners devise sound safety procedures and follow appropriate preventive measures.
Polynucleotide Risk Management Strategies
Patient selection, appropriate treatment planning and meticulous technique during the procedure can form the foundation for effective polynucleotide risk management. By equipping yourself with a robust knowledge of polynucleotide contraindications and preparing for potential complications is advisable. However, this does take time, experience, and investment in the latest course available in polynucleotide treatment.
There are two main reminders to polynucleotide risk management strategies:
- Eligibility and Screening of Patients
Though it is less common, providers may desire to screen for certain high-risk patients including those with allergies and autoimmune conditions or a history of adverse injectable treatments.
Polynucleotide therapy is contraindicated in patients with active infections, immunodeficiency or haemorrhagic diathesis. In addition, those on blood thinners or immune-suppressing drugs may need to be handled with care as well.
- Treatment Planning and Protocols
It is also important that realistic expectations should be set with the patient. This educates patients on the procedure, potential side effects and likely outcomes as it provides informed consent without over-promising.
Among these would be the re-treatment planning and protocols. Tailoring treatments to the patient in terms of skin type, age and scarring or ageing requirements, are essential depending on the manufacturer’s protocol.
On the other hand, determining where to place the polynucleotide injections can be crucial as it will result in good coverage of the product over an area and prevent “bubbles” or lumpy skin.
Best Practices for Safe Polynucleotide Administration
Polynucleotide treatments rely on a large part of administration techniques. High levels of care must be maintained throughout the treatment process to reduce any kind of risks.
One important factor is maintaining sterility and following through with the hygiene protocols from start to finish.
Always use sterile equipment and practise good hygiene to avoid any risk of infections. This should be performed by practitioners wearing gloves and with sterile needles, syringes and adequate disinfection of the treatment area.
On another note, one of the complications with polynucleotides is that many nodules occur due to being delivered too deeply as well as migration from the treatment site.
We would recommend starting with a low dosage for first-time patients as a way to ensure to monitor the patient’s response and prevent adverse reactions.
Finally, detailed aftercare instructions ensure the patients a smooth recovery. It is recommended that patients should avoid constant exposure to sunlight or tanning for at least a week after the polynucleotide treatment. The patient should have a good amount of rest and put on cold packs if there is any swelling.
Handling Polynucleotide Adverse Reactions
If there is a reaction, practitioners must know how to address it immediately and prevent such adverse reactions from escalating.
Immediate Response Protocols
Mild cases can be managed with oral antihistamines, while severe reactions may require adrenaline or corticosteroids. Having emergency medications and protocols in place is essential.
In case of suspicion that an infection is present, start antibiotics immediately and consult the patient with a specialist if worsening conditions occur.
If lumps or nodules are present, massaging the area and applying warmth may help break down small nodules. However, this should be done very cautiously with experience. If polynucleotides were combined with hyaluronic acid fillers, enzymatic agents such as hyaluronidase to break it down may be employed in more severe cases.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Healthcare providers delivering polynucleotide treatments do so under legal and ethical considerations. Following best practices builds patient confidence and minimises legal risk for both parties.
As we all know by now, reading and obtaining written informed consent are fundamental. During the consultation, patient education about risks and benefits before any aesthetic treatment should be discussed and highlighted.
Recording the specifics of every treatment session, product batch numbers and injection areas supports full disclosure in addition to being legally accountable in case something goes wrong.
Moreover, regulatory guidelines regarding the use of regenerative products in aesthetic medicine can fluctuate across different regions, hence, doctors must be aware and comply with both local and international regulations.
Polynucleotide Training with Acquisition Aesthetics UK
Keeping up with the latest advancements and innovations in aesthetic medicine is critical for providing care that meets the highest aesthetic standards. Continuing education helps practitioners stay current with both new technologies and risks so they can handle them on time.
Educational workshops and certification courses in polynucleotide treatments further develop hands-on skills and improve patient result outcomes. Available in London and Newcastle (Manchester coming soon), Acquisition Aesthetics offers a JCCP-approved Polynucleotides Training Course using the brand Ameela®. Be sure to check out the before and after patient photos on our website today!
Enrolling yourself on the course not only exposes you to the trending activities in our industry but also provides a networking platform to engage with other professionals.
Most importantly, getting certified by official institutions brings a sense of credibility and compliance with safety regulations.
FAQs
Are polynucleotide methods safe for all types of skin?
Polynucleotides are safe for most skin types but would not be advised for patients with active infections or autoimmune disorders.
When will you see results after a polynucleotide treatment?
You’ll see obvious changes in just a few weeks, but proper results might take up to six months as collagen production takes time.
Can polynucleotide treatments be combined with other aesthetic procedures?
They can be combined with microneedling, laser treatments and dermal fillers for improved skin complexion outcomes.
What should patients not do after the treatment?
Patients should remain out of direct sunlight, or excessive heat and refrain from exercise for at least 24–48 hours after treatment.
We of course would encourage aesthetic practitioners to act with patient safety at the forefront and in line with industry best practices when providing polynucleotide treatments. Continuing education, appropriate patient selection, and strict treatment protocols are the key to success. Consider enrolling on the Acquisition Aesthetics JCCP-approved Polynucleotides Training Course today!
Polynucleotides are not completely safe!
Polynucleotides have many advantages in aesthetic medicine, however, they are not completely safe. By knowing what difficulties can arise and practising good safety guidelines, the treatment process and experience can be pleasant for both healthcare professionals and patients. Practitioners can confidently add polynucleotides to their aesthetic offerings by taking an informed approach and providing the right methods for polynucleotide injections.
A key factor in the safe and effective use of polynucleotides is gaining practical, hands-on experience. Training that focuses on real-world applications, proper injection techniques, and the management of side effects is essential for delivering high-quality care. Staying up to date with the latest innovations and treatment protocols ensures practitioners are equipped to handle new challenges as they arise.
