Expert perspectives: evidence-based applications of polynucleotides (PNs) in aesthetic medicine and dermatology
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Abstract: Polynucleotides (PNs) are increasingly used in aesthetic dermatology, supported by emerging clinical evidence and growing interest in restorative approaches to skin treatment aiming to improve skin conditions. This expert opinion article brings perspectives from an international panel of dermatologists and aesthetic physicians on the use of PNs (Rejuran ® , PharmaResearch, South Korea) across dermatological indications. The proposed mechanism of action of PNs involves the formation of a hydrophilic, scaffold-like matrix that may support tissue remodeling and hydration. This article highlights the clinical applications of PNs across four indications: skin hydration and rejuvenation; structural support through deep-plane injections; barrier repair in rosacea and eczema; and scar remodeling. For each, the authors provide suggested treatment protocols based on real-world use, including guidance on injection techniques and anatomical targets. PNs have demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with no reported cases of granuloma or vascular occlusion in the literature to date. Their biocompatibility and tolerability make them a promising option, particularly for sensitive or barrier-compromised skin. However, the current evidence base remains limited, and further studies, including randomized trials and histological validation, are needed. This article provides practical clinical guidance while highlighting areas for future research and standardization in the aesthetic use of PNs. Keywords: polynucleotides, skin rejuvenation, ligament strengthening, skin structural support, scar remodeling
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Contemporary literature suggests that PDRN-mediated activation of adenosine-dependent signaling pathways may contribute significantly to angiogenesis and tissue regeneration, whereas PN formulations may exert greater influence on dermal biostimulation and extracellular matrix remodeling.
“Contemporary literature suggests that PDRN-mediated activation of adenosine-dependent signaling pathways may contribute significantly to angiogenesis and tissue regeneration, whereas PN formulations may exert greater influence on dermal biostimulation and extracellular matrix remodeling [5,18].”
From Polynucleotides and Polydeoxyribonucleotides for Skin Rejuvenation, Postoperative Scar Prevention, and Wound Healing: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials (2026) · cites this paper as [18]
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Experimental — accuracy not yet measuredThese observations are consistent with contemporary literature describing nucleotide-based therapies as well tolerated across a range of dermatologic applications.
“These observations are consistent with contemporary literature describing nucleotide-based therapies as well tolerated across a range of dermatologic applications [16,18].”
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The effectiveness of polynucleotides in esthetic medicine: a systematic review
Lampridou, S., Bassett, S., Cavallini, M., & Christopoulos, G. (2025) · Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology · doi:10.1111/jocd.16721 · Cited by 41 · see citing works
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Alhussain, A. M., Turki M. Albusayys, S., Alfhadi, M. A., Bu Mozah, S. A., AlShammari, S. S. S., Alanazi, H. A. M., Adil Alqazanli, S., Nouruldeen Alabdullah, A., M. ALrashidi, N., Almazrou, A. A., et al. (2026) · Cureus · doi:10.7759/cureus.112403 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
- Authors
- Rho, N.-K., Chilukuri, S., Chan, G., Kim, M., Shin, J., & Suwanchinda, A.
- Affiliations
- Baylor College of Medicine (US)
- Thammasat University (TH)
- Corresponding author
- Suwanchinda, Atchima
- Venue
- Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Published
- 2026-01
- Volume
- Volume 19
- Pages
- 1-9
- ISSN
- 1178-7015 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC13047770
- OpenAlex
- W7123571177
- Cited by
- 2
- References
- 1
- Citations by year
- 2026: 2
- FWCI
- 13.47
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- gold
- doi.org
- Licence
- Locations
- Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc)
- PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by-nc)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Dove Medical Press (Taylor and Francis Group) (submittedVersion, cc-by-nc)
- Topics
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Dermatology › Facial Rejuvenation and Surgery Techniques
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Dermatology › Dermatologic Treatments and Research
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Rehabilitation › Wound Healing and Treatments
- Keywords
- polynucleotides, skin rejuvenation, skin hydration, scar remodeling, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, skin barrier repair, tissue remodeling, injection technique, treatment protocols, safety and tolerability
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