What are polynucleotides and how do they work? In simple terms, polynucleotides are highly purified, bioactive DNA fragments that are injected into the skin to stimulate repair, regeneration and deep hydration. Rather than filling or freezing lines, they work by improving the quality of your own tissue from within. At Alcove Aesthetics by Dr Goziem in Pall Mall, Central London, we use medical-grade polynucleotides to treat under-eye hollows, crepey skin, fine lines and loss of elasticity, especially in patients who want very natural, subtle results.
In a doctor-led setting, polynucleotides can be an excellent option if you are starting to notice tired, dull or slack skin but are not ready for surgery or a more dramatic change. They help the skin behave more like it did in your 20s – supporting collagen, elastin and healthy cell turnover – so that you look fresher, smoother and better rested, without looking “done”. As a Mayfair-area aesthetic clinic, we see many patients who need discreet, effective treatments that fit into busy professional lives, and polynucleotides have quickly become one of the most requested options for this reason.
Introduction: Why patients are asking for polynucleotides
If you are in your 30s, 40s or beyond, you may notice that no matter how much you sleep or which eye cream you use, your skin still looks tired. Common concerns include:
- Fine lines that are visible even when the face is at rest
- Dark circles and under-eye hollows
- Crepey texture on the cheeks, neck or around the mouth
- Skin that has lost its “bounce” and luminosity
Many women are understandably cautious about dermal fillers or anything that might change their facial shape. They want something that works with, not against, their natural features. Polynucleotides sit firmly in this “regenerative” category. At Alcove Aesthetics, just off Trafalgar Square and close to Mayfair, we use them to softly refresh areas where the skin is thin and delicate, with results that simply look like you on your best day.
What It Is & How It Works
Polynucleotides are chains of nucleotides – the building blocks of DNA – usually derived from purified, filtered fish DNA. In aesthetics, they are used as injectable biostimulators, meaning their purpose is to stimulate your skin’s own repair processes rather than add volume like filler.
The science in clear language
When carefully injected into the skin in tiny amounts, polynucleotides work in several key ways:
- Cell signalling and regeneration
- Polynucleotides act as “messengers” that encourage skin cells called fibroblasts to wake up and start working more efficiently.
- Fibroblasts then produce more collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, which are essential for firmness, elasticity and hydration.
- Deep hydration and improved skin quality
- Unlike traditional Skin Boosters, which mainly deliver hyaluronic acid, polynucleotides improve the skin’s ability to hold water by enhancing the surrounding extracellular matrix.
- The result is thicker, better hydrated, more resilient skin over time, rather than a temporary plumping effect only.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
- Polynucleotides can help neutralise free radicals, which contribute to ageing and inflammation.
- They support a healthier environment in the skin, which is particularly beneficial in areas of chronic stress such as the under-eyes.
- Tissue repair and restructuring
- Because of their regenerative properties, polynucleotides can support improved healing and remodelling of damaged or weakened tissue.
- This is why they are often chosen for delicate eye areas, fine lines around the mouth, neck and décolletage.
At Alcove Aesthetics, your treatment is directly planned and delivered by Dr Goziem Onuchukwu, a GDC-registered dentist with an MSc in Aesthetic Medicine and more than 7 years of experience, including over 1,000 patients treated. Her focus is on controlled, precise placement so the product sits in exactly the right layer of the skin to stimulate regeneration without puffiness or heaviness.
Benefits & Results
Polynucleotides are particularly valued by patients who want subtle but meaningful improvements in skin quality. Common benefits include:
Smoother under-eye area
Reduced crepiness and fine lines
Softer appearance of dark circles and tear trough hollows
Improved skin texture and firmness
Skin feels thicker, bouncier and more resilient
Fine lines on cheeks, neck and around the mouth appear softened
More radiant, “rested” appearance
Better light reflection in treated areas
Complexion looks healthier and better hydrated
Natural, gradual changes
No change in facial structure or expression
Low risk of lumpiness when performed correctly
Complementary to other treatments
Can be combined with Polynucleotides in other areas, skin boosters, gentle Microneedling or carefully placed fillers for a harmonised result
Results typically build over several weeks, with most patients noticing visible improvement from around 3 to 4 weeks after starting treatment.
Why Choose Alcove Aesthetics by Dr Goziem
Choosing where to have polynucleotides is as important as choosing the treatment itself. At our facial aesthetics clinic in Central London, we offer:
Doctor-led, safety-first care
All consultations and injections are performed by Dr Goziem herself – not delegated.
She holds an MSc in Aesthetic Medicine and is a GDC-registered dentist, ensuring a strong understanding of facial anatomy and safety.
Award-winning expertise
Best Anti-Ageing Practitioner, Central London, 2024 and 2025
Skin Aesthetics Specialist of the Year, 2025
Natural, tailored results
Our priority is to keep you looking like yourself – just fresher, smoother and well-rested.
Treatment plans are fully customised based on your skin, lifestyle and tolerance for downtime.
Discreet Central London location
Based at 120 Pall Mall, close to Mayfair, St James’s and Westminster, with easy access from Knightsbridge, Belgravia and Marylebone.
Evening appointments are available Monday to Friday for busy professionals.
Treatment Journey: What to Expect
1. Personal consultation
Your journey starts with a detailed consultation with Dr Goziem at our Mayfair-adjacent clinic:
- In-depth discussion of your concerns – for example, under-eye tiredness or general loss of skin quality.
- Full medical history and skin assessment, including any previous treatments such as fillers, PRP or lasers.
- Clear explanation of whether polynucleotides are right for you, or whether an alternative like skin boosters, chemical peels or other biostimulators would be more appropriate.
You will have plenty of time to ask questions, and there is never any pressure to proceed.
2. The treatment itself
On the day of treatment:
- Your skin is cleansed thoroughly and, if needed, a topical numbing cream is applied for comfort.
- Precise injection points are marked, typically using micro-aliquots of product placed in a grid pattern beneath the skin.
- A fine needle or cannula is used to place the polynucleotides at the correct depth. Most patients describe the sensation as mild stinging or pressure rather than pain.
- The treatment time is usually 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the area.
You can return to most normal activities the same day, making this easy to fit into a lunch break or after work.
3. Follow-up and maintenance
We typically recommend a protocol of 2 to 3 initial sessions, spaced about 3 to 4 weeks apart, followed by maintenance every 6 to 12 months depending on your skin and goals. Every treatment at Alcove Aesthetics includes the option of a follow-up appointment so that your results and comfort can be monitored carefully.
Recovery & Aftercare
Polynucleotides are generally very well tolerated, with downtime usually limited to:
- Mild redness, small bumps or slight swelling at injection sites for 24 to 48 hours
- Occasional light bruising, especially in delicate areas such as the under-eyes
To support healing, we advise:
- Avoiding makeup and heavy skincare on the treated area for the rest of the day
- Avoiding intense exercise, saunas, steam rooms and alcohol for 24 hours
- Using a gentle cleanser and high-factor SPF daily
Most patients start to notice improvements in skin texture and hydration from around 2 to 3 weeks, with further enhancement after subsequent sessions.
Cost & Transparency
At Alcove Aesthetics, we are committed to clear, upfront pricing. Polynucleotide treatment is priced at:
- £330 for 1 session
- £900 for a course of 3 sessions
During your consultation in our Central London clinic, you will receive a personalised treatment plan and exact quote before proceeding. A £50 booking fee is taken to secure your appointment, which is fully redeemable against treatment, with a 48-hour reschedule policy for flexibility.
FAQ: Polynucleotides in Mayfair and Central London
Are polynucleotides safe?
When performed by a medically qualified practitioner using high-quality products, polynucleotides have a strong safety profile. At Alcove Aesthetics, all treatments are carried out by Dr Goziem, who has advanced training in injectable aesthetics and strictly follows medical protocols. As with any injectable, there is a small risk of bruising, swelling or, rarely, infection, which will be discussed during your consultation.
Do polynucleotides hurt?
Most patients describe the treatment as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. We can apply topical numbing cream beforehand, and we use fine needles or cannulas to minimise discomfort. Any stinging tends to be brief and settles quickly after treatment.
How soon will I see results and how long do they last?
You may feel the skin is slightly more hydrated quite quickly, but visible improvements typically become noticeable after 2 to 4 weeks, as your skin responds to the stimulation. Full results are usually seen after completing the initial course of 2 to 3 sessions. Maintenance once or twice a year can help sustain the benefits.
Who is a good candidate for polynucleotides?
Ideal candidates are women and men who are beginning to see signs of fine lines, dullness or loss of elasticity, especially under the eyes or across the mid-face, neck and décolletage. Polynucleotides are particularly suitable if you prefer a regenerative, subtle approach rather than changing your facial structure. They may not be appropriate during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in certain medical conditions, which is why a full consultation is essential.
Can polynucleotides be combined with other treatments?
Yes. In a doctor-led plan, polynucleotides can sit alongside treatments such as Chemical Peel for pigmentation, exosomes via microneedling for added regenerative support, or carefully placed dermal fillers for structural volume. Your plan will always be tailored so that treatments work together safely and harmoniously.
To find out whether polynucleotides are right for your skin and lifestyle, and to explore other doctor-led treatment options at our Central London clinic, you are welcome to arrange a consultation with Dr Goziem. To book your personalised consultation with Dr Goziem Onuchukwu at Alcove Aesthetics, Pall Mall, London, call 07856962248 or book online at alcoveaesthetics.com/appointments.
