Crepey and thinning skin are two of the most common age-related concerns people notice on their face, neck and body. While moisturisers and serums can offer temporary relief, they often fail to tackle the deeper issues: reduced collagen, elastin and skin hydration. This is where polynucleotide (PN) treatments have quickly gained attention in medical aesthetics. But can they really help improve crepey or thinning skin? Let’s explore the science, benefits and what to expect.
Understanding Crepey and Thinning Skin
Crepey skin looks finely wrinkled, fragile and loose—similar to crepe paper. It usually develops due to long-term sun exposure, natural collagen decline, dehydration and loss of elasticity. Thinning skin, on the other hand, occurs when the dermal layers weaken and lose density, making the skin more delicate and prone to damage.
Both concerns are often seen on the under-eyes, neck, arms, hands and abdomen. While ageing is the main factor, lifestyle, genetics and environmental stressors also play a significant role.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are purified DNA fragments derived typically from salmon or trout. They are biocompatible, meaning they work safely with human tissues. In aesthetics, they are injected into the skin to stimulate repair, hydration and regeneration.
They work on a deeper level compared to topical skincare, helping to restore the skin’s structure from within.
How Do Polynucleotides Work for Crepey or Thinning Skin?
1. Deep Hydration and Moisture Retention
Polynucleotides have strong water-binding properties. Once injected, they improve moisture levels within the skin, helping it look plumper and less wrinkled. Since crepey skin is often dehydrated, this hydration boost makes a visible difference.
2. Collagen and Elastin Stimulation
As we age, natural collagen production slows down. Polynucleotides encourage fibroblasts (skin-repairing cells) to produce more collagen and elastin. This helps rebuild skin density, making thinning areas appear firmer and stronger.
3. Tissue Repair and Regeneration
PNs activate the skin’s natural healing response. They improve microcirculation and promote cellular turnover, gradually strengthening fragile skin over the course of treatment.
4. Improved Skin Elasticity
One of the key reasons crepey skin forms is a loss of elasticity. Polynucleotide therapy restores elasticity, giving the skin a smoother, more resilient texture.
Where Can Polynucleotide Treatments Be Used?
They are especially effective in areas where skin is delicate or prone to thinning:
Under-eye region
Neck and décolletage
Hands
Abdomen
Inner arms and knees
Full face rejuvenation
Medical aesthetics clinics often use PN treatments as part of a personalised approach, combining them with procedures like microneedling, anti-wrinkle injections or skin boosters for enhanced results.
Are Results Permanent?
Polynucleotide treatments deliver long-lasting improvement, but they are not permanent. Most people notice visible changes within a few weeks, with optimal results after completing a recommended course—usually 3 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
Maintenance sessions every 6–12 months help keep the skin firm, hydrated and healthy.
Is It Safe?
Polynucleotides have been used in regenerative medicine for decades and are considered safe, with minimal downtime. Mild redness, swelling or small bumps at the injection site are common but typically settle within a day or two.
However, treatment should always be performed by a qualified medical professional, especially when addressing delicate areas like the under-eyes.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Polynucleotide injections are suitable for anyone experiencing skin laxity, fine wrinkling or thinning. They are especially useful for:
People noticing early signs of ageing
Those with sun-damaged or dehydrated skin
Individuals with crepey under-eyes
Anyone wanting a natural, regenerative alternative to fillers
Because polynucleotides work with your body’s own repair systems, results look natural rather than artificial or overfilled.
Polynucleotides vs Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters
Both treatments improve hydration, but polynucleotides go a step further. While hyaluronic acid boosts moisture, PNs also stimulate collagen, repair tissue and support long-term skin regeneration.
Think of HA as a hydrator and PN as a full regenerative treatment.
Final Thoughts
Can polynucleotide treatment help with crepey or thinning skin?
The answer is a clear yes.
By boosting hydration, collagen, elastin and tissue repair, polynucleotides offer one of the most effective non-surgical solutions for fragile, ageing skin. They work slowly and naturally, making them ideal for individuals who prefer subtle yet transformative results.
If crepey or thinning skin is affecting your confidence, a consultation with a medical aesthetics clinic can help determine whether polynucleotide therapy is the right option for you. learn more here – https://www.optimisemedical.co.uk/skin-boosters/polynucleotides/
