Alcove Aesthetics · St James’s, London
Polynucleotides in London
Polynucleotides are injectable skin treatments that support the skin’s own repair, improving thickness, texture and quality over a course of sessions. Dr Goziem Onuchukwu uses them at Alcove Aesthetics, 120 Pall Mall, St James’s, most often for thin, crepey skin under the eyes and for tired-looking skin on the face and neck.
- GDC registered
- Award-winning practitioner, 2024 and 2025
- Mon to Fri, 9am to 6pm
- 120 Pall Mall, St James’s
Polynucleotides at a glance
- What it treatsThin or crepey under-eye skin, dull or tired skin, fine lines, texture
- What it isPurified DNA fragments, usually derived from salmon or trout
- Treatment timeAbout 30 minutes
- SessionsUsually a course of 3, a few weeks apart
- DowntimeSmall bumps and possible bruising for 1 to 3 days
- ResultsGradual, building over 6 to 12 weeks
- How long it lastsOften 6 to 9 months, with maintenance
- PriceUnder eyes from £330; face from £340 (see the price list)
Watch
Polynucleotides don’t fill, they heal
A short explainer from Dr Goziem Onuchukwu.
What are polynucleotides and how do they work?
Polynucleotides are chains of purified DNA fragments. When placed in the skin, they are thought to support the cells that produce collagen and elastin, improve hydration and calm inflammation. The result is skin that looks thicker, smoother and healthier over time.
They do not add volume or change the shape of the face. Think of them as a treatment for skin quality rather than structure.
Where can polynucleotides be used?
- Under the eyes. The most common area. Helpful for thin, crepey skin and fine lines.
- Face. For dullness, texture, fine lines and early loss of firmness.
- Neck and décolletage. For crepey skin and fine lines.
- Acne scarring. Sometimes combined with microneedling.
Before and after
Every result below started with a consultation with Dr Goziem Onuchukwu, who planned each treatment around the patient’s face and goals.
Under-eye skin
Crepey, shadowed skin under the eyes, treated with a course of polynucleotides.
Skin quality and brightness
Overall skin quality and radiance, improved with a personalised treatment plan.
Eyes covered for privacy. Results vary from person to person.
Not sure if this is right for you?
Book a consultation and we will assess your face and skin, explain your options honestly and only recommend what will help.
Who are polynucleotides right for?
Often a good fit
- Thin or crepey under-eye skin where filler is not the right answer
- Tired, dull skin that has not responded to skincare alone
- People who want gradual, natural improvement without any change in shape
- Suitable across all skin tones, as there is no heat or light involved
When we would not treat, or would wait
- Allergy to fish or fish products, as most polynucleotides are fish-derived
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active infection or inflammation in the area
- Some autoimmune conditions, which we discuss at consultation
How the treatment works, step by step
- Consultation. We assess your skin and confirm polynucleotides are the right option.
- Numbing. Numbing cream is applied, particularly for under-eye treatment.
- Treatment. Small amounts are placed with fine injections or a cannula. It takes around 30 minutes.
- Course. We repeat the treatment usually two more times, a few weeks apart, and review progress at each visit.
What to expect afterwards
| Same day | Small raised bumps at the injection points, which usually settle within 24 hours. |
| Days 1 to 3 | Mild swelling and possible bruising, especially under the eyes. |
| Weeks 2 to 6 | Further sessions as part of the course. |
| Weeks 6 to 12 | Skin looks thicker, smoother and brighter. |
| 6 to 9 months | Maintenance session to keep the result. |
Risks, side effects and limits
Common effects are bumps, redness, swelling and bruising, which are temporary. Infection and allergic reaction are uncommon. Under-eye treatment can cause more noticeable swelling for a couple of days.
Polynucleotides improve skin quality. They do not fill a deep hollow, lift sagging skin or remove pigmentation. Results vary between people, and suitability is always confirmed at consultation.
Polynucleotides compared with other options
| Treatment | Main effect | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Polynucleotides | Skin repair and quality | Thin, tired or crepey skin |
| Profhilo | Hydration and firmness | Dull, dehydrated skin |
| Tear trough filler | Replaces volume | A clear under-eye hollow |
| Exosomes | Supports skin renewal with microneedling | Texture, scarring, radiance |
How much does polynucleotides cost?
Under-eye polynucleotides are £330 for one session or £900 for a course of three. Polynucleotides for the face are £340 for one session or £930 for a course of three. A skin consultation is £50. See the full price list.
What patients say
★★★★★
“I’ve just had my second polynucleotide under-eyes session and both times have been great experiences.”
Sang · Google review
★★★★★
“I have had so many compliments on my skin ever since I started seeing her.”
Chizoba I. · Google review
★★★★★
“She took the time to thoroughly explain the treatment process, answer all my questions, and recommend the best options for my skin concerns.”
Taf T. · Google review
Why patients choose Alcove Aesthetics for polynucleotides
“Every treatment starts with a proper consultation. I will always tell you honestly if a treatment is not right for you.”Dr Goziem Onuchukwu, founder
Dr Goziem Onuchukwu, BDS, MSc Aesthetic Medicine, is a Dental Surgeon with a special interest in aesthetic medicine and the founder of Alcove Aesthetics. She has practised facial aesthetics since 2019. Dr Goziem’s background in dental and oral surgery means she works from a detailed understanding of facial anatomy, which shapes how she assesses and plans every treatment.
- GDC registered
- GHP Global Excellence Awards: Best Anti-Ageing Aesthetics Practitioner, Central London 2024 and 2025
- GHP Global Excellence Awards: Best Holistic Facial Aesthetics Clinic, London 2026
- Every treatment starts with a consultation, and we will tell you if a treatment is not right for you
Polynucleotides FAQs
How many polynucleotide sessions do I need?
Usually a course of three, a few weeks apart, followed by a maintenance session every six to nine months. We may suggest more for scarring or very thin skin.
Do polynucleotides hurt?
There is some discomfort, especially under the eyes, but numbing cream helps. Most people find it very manageable.
When will I see results?
Improvement is gradual. Most people notice a difference a few weeks after the second session, with the full result around 6 to 12 weeks after starting.
Are polynucleotides safe for darker skin?
Yes. They do not use heat or light, so the risk of pigmentation that comes with some lasers and peels does not apply in the same way. We still assess every patient individually.
Polynucleotides or filler for under-eyes?
Polynucleotides suit thin, crepey skin. Filler suits a clear hollow with good skin quality. Some people benefit from both, usually polynucleotides first.
Can I combine polynucleotides with other treatments?
Yes. They are often combined with skin boosters, anti-wrinkle injections or microneedling. We will plan the order and spacing with you.
Book your polynucleotides consultation
Alcove Aesthetics, 120 Pall Mall, St James’s, London SW1Y 5EA. A few minutes’ walk from Piccadilly Circus and Green Park. Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.
Consultations are £50. Prefer to talk first? Message us on WhatsApp and we will get back to you.
Visit Us
Alcove Aesthetics
120 Pall Mall, St James’s
London SW1Y 5EA
Call 07856 962248
info@drgoziem.com
Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed