Salmon DNA

Polynucleotide Treatment

Polynucleotide treatment, commonly known as salmon DNA, aims to support the skin's own repair processes. It is not a filler and does not add volume.

Active substance: Polynucleotides (PN / PDRN)
Procedure time: Roughly 20-30 minutes
Onset of effect: The first change usually within 2-4 weeks
Longevity: A few months after the series of sessions; differs from person to person

What is it?

A polynucleotide is a molecule purified and refined from DNA of fish origin, which is why the treatment is commonly known as "salmon DNA". It is biocompatible with the skin and is delivered into the dermis through micro-injections.

The treatment it is most often confused with is filler, yet the two do different things. A filler adds volume with a gel such as hyaluronic acid, and its effect is visible at once. Polynucleotides do not add volume and do not change facial expression or movement; the aim is to support the quality of the skin tissue. For that reason the result does not appear at once but gradually, over weeks.

Dr. Burak Demirhan Explains

Is all salmon DNA the same? (in Turkish)

English translation of the answer

Is all salmon DNA the same? Why is Asia-Pacific salmon so special? The answer is actually very clear: no, not all salmon DNA is the same. Asia-Pacific salmon is one of the most resilient creatures in nature. The secret of this extraordinary resilience lies in the length, purity and stability of its DNA chain. When used in the skin, these long polynucleotide chains effectively tell the cells: start working again. Cellular renewal becomes active, and elasticity and hydration balance are regained. In short, DNA from one of nature's strongest creatures helps the skin regain its strength too.

Is it suitable for every skin type? (in Turkish)

English translation of the answer

Is Asia-Pacific salmon DNA treatment suitable for every skin type? Absolutely, yes. Asia-Pacific salmon DNA shows approximately 97% biological compatibility with human DNA. This similarity allows us to achieve compatible, balanced results across very different skin types. It can be applied comfortably even to atopic, acne-prone or sensitive skin. We are talking about a biologically derived structure that contains no toxic components. In other words, the skin is supported in renewing itself in the form closest to its own nature.

How does it work?

When polynucleotides are delivered into the dermis, they support the activity of fibroblast cells. Fibroblasts are the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, which form the structural support of the skin.

The molecule also has the capacity to hold water, which is why an improvement in the skin's moisture balance is reported after treatment. The effect develops gradually not because the molecule itself is lasting, but because it supports the skin's own repair process.

Injection: polynucleotides are delivered into the dermis in micro amounts with a fine needle.
Cellular response: fibroblasts are stimulated, and collagen and elastin production is supported.
Moisture balance: the molecule's capacity to hold water contributes to skin hydration.
Gradual result: the change becomes more apparent as the sessions progress and in the weeks that follow.

Animated Explainer

What does salmon DNA (polynucleotide) do for the skin? (in Turkish)

English translation of the on-screen text

A new-generation skin healer. Made from DNA fragments obtained from wild salmon; it activates the skin's own ability to renew itself. From wild salmon: a reliable medical device. Salmon DNA is produced from purified polynucleotides (PN). Breaks down slowly in the tissue: it breaks down slowly within the tissue while keeping its regular structure. Dermis and epidermis: renews their biological structure. It increases skin elasticity by renewing the biological structure of the dermis and epidermis. Skin elasticity and fine wrinkles: supports collagen production. It repairs thin skin damaged from within by ageing and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Skin tone and texture: a natural glow. It improves pigmentation and the overall brightness of skin tone; it helps give the skin a smoother texture. Highly biocompatible: high compatibility with human DNA. It consists of DNA fragments with high biocompatibility. Targeted treatment area: skin repair for the whole face, wrinkles around the eyes and acne scars. Who is this treatment suitable for? People who want naturally healthy skin, who aim to refresh and firm their face, who have fine facial wrinkles, and who have sensitive, thin skin. Natural skin beauty: elasticity and hydration. It strongly increases skin elasticity and hydration, revealing the skin's natural beauty. Dr. Burak Demirhan, Küçükyalı, Istanbul. Animations are illustrative. Suitability and results vary from person to person; the decision is made at the physician's examination.

Treatment Areas

Face — overall skin quality and moisture balance
Under the eyes — tissue support where the skin is thin
Neck and décolletage — fine lines and tissue laxity
Back of the hands — thin tissue and dryness

Procedure Steps

Examination
Skin type, the current concern, medical history and any medicines you take are assessed. Whether the treatment is suitable, and the session plan, are decided after this assessment.
Preparation
The area is cleaned with antiseptic. If you wish, a topical anaesthetic cream is applied and time is allowed for it to take effect.
The procedure itself
Polynucleotides are delivered to the area as micro-injections with a fine needle. The procedure is usually short.
Review
The result is assessed together between sessions and after the sessions are complete; the plan is updated if needed.

Duration and Longevity

Polynucleotide treatment is not a single-session procedure; it is usually given as a series of sessions planned a few weeks apart. How long the effect lasts varies from person to person with skin structure, age, sun exposure and lifestyle habits. It is not possible to state the duration precisely in advance.

Who is it suitable for?

Adults who describe dullness, dryness and a tired appearance in their skin
People who want to support skin quality rather than add volume
People bothered by an under-eye appearance related to thin skin in that area
Situations where the skin is to be prepared before planned filler or biostimulator treatment

Who is it not suitable for?

Pregnant and breastfeeding people
People with an active skin infection, eczema or an open wound at the treatment site
People with a known allergy to fish-derived products
People with an uncontrolled autoimmune condition or a bleeding disorder
Anyone under 18
People expecting added volume — this treatment does not add volume

Aftercare

Do not massage the treated area or apply make-up for the first 24 hours.
Avoid saunas, steam rooms, intense exercise and very hot environments for the first few days.
Using sunscreen is advised.
If small scabs form at the injection points, do not scratch them; let them fall away on their own.

Possible Side Effects

Temporary redness and small raised bumps at the injection points
Temporary swelling and tenderness
Bruising — particularly in thin-skinned areas such as under the eyes
Rarely infection; the risk is reduced by keeping to sterile conditions
Rarely an allergic reaction

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the "salmon DNA" injection?

The treatment commonly known as salmon DNA involves delivering the polynucleotide molecule, purified from DNA of fish origin, into the skin through micro-injections. The aim is not to add volume but to support the skin's own repair processes.

How is it different from filler?

A filler adds volume with a gel, and its effect is visible at once. Polynucleotides do not add volume or change facial expression; they aim to support skin quality, and the result appears gradually over weeks.

How many sessions are needed?

It is not a single-session treatment. The number of sessions and the intervals between them are set at the examination according to the condition of the skin; it is usually given as a series planned a few weeks apart.

When is the effect seen?

The first change is usually noticed within 2 to 4 weeks. The result goes on becoming more apparent in the weeks after the sessions are complete, because the effect relies on the skin's own repair process.

Does it hurt?

The treatment is done with a fine needle and is generally found tolerable. If you wish, a topical anaesthetic cream is used beforehand. Pain thresholds differ from person to person.

Is it different from mesotherapy?

The technique is similar; the difference lies in what is delivered. Mesotherapy uses mixtures of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, whereas this treatment delivers polynucleotides. Which one is suitable is decided after the skin has been assessed.

Who is it not done for?

It is not carried out in pregnant or breastfeeding people, in people with an active infection at the treatment site, in people allergic to fish-derived products, or in people with an uncontrolled autoimmune condition. Suitability is decided at the examination.

Can it be used under the eyes?

The under-eye area is one of the areas where this treatment is often chosen. Because the skin there is thin, however, bruising is more likely, and suitability is assessed separately.