Polynucleotides: The Natural Alternative to Botox Taking the UK by Storm in 2025

Written By DermaBalance

In 2025, aesthetic clients across the UK are making a quiet but powerful shift — away from frozen features and filler fatigue, and toward skin that heals, regenerates, and glows from within.

At the heart of this movement is a treatment that’s gaining cult status among industry insiders and skin-savvy clients alike: polynucleotides.

Also known as the “salmon sperm facial” (yes, really — we’ll explain in a moment), this next-generation injectable is being celebrated as a natural alternative to Botox that doesn’t paralyse the muscles — it revitalises the skin.

What Are Polynucleotides, Exactly?

Polynucleotides are chains of nucleotides, the fundamental building blocks of DNA.

In aesthetic treatments, they’re derived from purified salmon DNA — known for its incredible biocompatibility and regenerative properties.

These molecules work by:

  • Stimulating fibroblasts (the cells that produce collagen and elastin)

  • Improving skin hydration

  • Boosting tissue repair and cell turnover

  • Reducing inflammation

The result? Healthier, thicker, more radiant skin — from the inside out.

Why Are People Calling It the “Salmon-Sperm Facial”?

The nickname refers to the source: specially processed salmon DNA, chosen for its similarity to human DNA and its remarkable regenerative effects.

But don’t let the name put you off. The final product is:

  • Highly purified

  • Free of any allergenic proteins

  • Medically safe and backed by clinical research

In short: it’s science — not seafood.

Polynucleotides vs. Botox: What’s the Difference?

While both treatments aim to reduce signs of ageing, they work in entirely different ways — and offer very different results. Here’s how they compare:

Mechanism of Action:

  • Botox temporarily relaxes facial muscles to smooth dynamic wrinkles (like frown lines and crow’s feet).

  • Polynucleotides stimulate the skin’s own fibroblasts to boost collagen, elastin, and hydration — promoting long-term skin regeneration.

The Look and Feel:

  • Botox delivers a more sculpted, sometimes frozen effect, ideal for targeting expression lines.

  • Polynucleotides enhance skin quality — think radiant, hydrated, firmer skin — without altering facial movement.

Best For:

  • Botox is typically used for smoothing forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines.

  • Polynucleotides shine in delicate areas like the under-eyes, neck, and décolletage — where fillers or Botox may be too harsh or risky.

Results Over Time:

  • Botox results appear in 3–7 days and typically last 3–4 months.

  • Polynucleotides build gradually over several weeks and can last 6–12 months, with ongoing improvements to skin health.

Polynucleotides are particularly loved for treating fragile or hard-to-treat areas, like:

  • Under-eye crepiness and dark circles

  • Neck laxity

  • Acne-prone or scarred skin

  • Sun-damaged or dehydrated complexions

Who Is This Treatment For?

Polynucleotides are ideal for you if:

  • You want natural-looking results without altering your expressions

  • You’re concerned about fine lines, crepiness, dullness, or early ageing

  • You’ve had fillers or Botox before and want a more regenerative option

  • You’re looking for a treatment that builds long-term skin health, not just surface results

What Can You Expect from a Treatment at DermaBalance?

At DermaBalance near Tunbridge Wells, we offer bespoke polynucleotide protocols based on your skin’s unique needs.

Here’s how your journey might look:

  1. Consultation & Skin Analysis

    We take the time to understand your skin goals and assess where polynucleotides can offer the greatest benefit.

  2. Treatment Plan Creation

    Depending on your concern (e.g., under-eyes vs. full face), we tailor your dosage and treatment schedule — often spaced over 2–3 sessions.

  3. Micro-Injection Procedure

    Using ultra-fine needles, the polynucleotide solution is injected just beneath the skin — a relatively quick and comfortable process.

  4. Aftercare & Progress Tracking

    You’ll leave with gentle aftercare guidance and can expect visible improvements within 2–3 weeks — with continued collagen stimulation over several months.

How Long Do Results Last?

While initial improvements can be seen within weeks, full results build gradually — and can last 6–12 months, depending on your skin and treatment plan.

We often recommend a maintenance session every 6–9 months to continue the regenerative benefits.

Are Polynucleotides Safe?

Yes — when administered by trained professionals, they are:

  • Clinically proven

  • CE-marked in the UK

  • Low-risk with minimal downtime

Side effects are generally mild and may include slight redness, swelling, or pinpoint bruising that resolves quickly.

Why Is This Treatment So Popular in 2025?

Here’s what’s driving the polynucleotide boom in the UK this year:

  • A growing desire for natural-looking results

  • Increased education around regenerative aesthetics

  • Rising popularity of under-eye rejuvenation

  • The shift away from over-filled, over-frozen aesthetics

  • Interest from beauty editors, influencers, and dermatologists alike

Polynucleotides are now being offered in some of the UK’s most advanced clinics — and at DermaBalance, we’re proud to be part of that elite group.

Your Skin, Reimagined

In a world where quick fixes are everywhere, polynucleotides offer something deeper — a treatment that doesn’t just smooth the skin but heals it.

This is skin that looks like you — just brighter, healthier, and more resilient.

Discover Polynucleotides at DermaBalance

Based near Tunbridge Wells, our clinic specialises in natural, regenerative treatments designed to restore your skin’s balance and brilliance.

Book your consultation today and experience the next generation of skin rejuvenation, or contact us.

DermaBalance