In the quest for youthful, radiant skin and healthy hair, the world of aesthetic medicine offers a dazzling array of regenerative treatments. From PRP to exosomes, the options can be overwhelming. At Mesglo Aesthetic Clinic in Marylebone, we believe in providing our clients with clear, evidence-based information to help them make informed decisions. This article provides a scientific comparison of polynucleotide therapy with other popular regenerative treatments, helping you understand the unique benefits of each.
Understanding Regenerative Treatments
Regenerative treatments are a class of aesthetic procedures that work by stimulating the body’s own natural healing and repair mechanisms. Unlike traditional treatments that may simply mask symptoms, regenerative therapies aim to address the root causes of ageing and tissue damage, promoting long-lasting, natural-looking results. Polynucleotides, PRP, and exosomes are all examples of regenerative treatments, but they work in different ways.
| Treatment | Primary Mechanism | Source Material |
| Polynucleotides | Cellular regeneration via DNA fragments | Salmon DNA |
| PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) | Growth factors from platelets | Patient’s own blood |
| Exosomes | Cellular communication via micro-vesicles | Various cell sources |
To learn more about our regenerative treatments, please visit our Polynucleotide Face Treatment and Exosome Face Treatment pages.
Polynucleotides vs. PRP: A Tale of Two Stimulators
Polynucleotide therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) are both powerful biostimulators, but they work in fundamentally different ways. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right treatment for your needs.
Polynucleotides: The DNA Blueprint for Regeneration
As we’ve explored, polynucleotides provide the direct building blocks for cellular repair. They are a consistent, purified product that delivers predictable results. The treatment is not dependent on the patient’s own biology, making it a reliable option for a wide range of individuals.
PRP: Harnessing Your Body’s Own Healing Power
PRP therapy, on the other hand, uses the growth factors found in your own blood to stimulate tissue repair. A sample of your blood is taken and spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets. This platelet-rich plasma is then injected back into the treatment area.
“PRP contains growth factors that are believed to promote tissue repair, collagen production, and skin rejuvenation. It is often used to address concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture irregularities.” [2]
The effectiveness of PRP can vary depending on the individual’s age, health, and platelet concentration. While it is a very natural approach, the results can be less predictable than with polynucleotides. For those seeking a reliable and consistent regenerative treatment, our Polynucleotide Hair Treatment offers a powerful alternative to PRP for hair loss.
Polynucleotides vs. Exosomes: The Messengers and the Blueprints
Exosome therapy is another exciting frontier in regenerative medicine. Like polynucleotides, exosomes work at a cellular level, but they do so through a different mechanism.
Exosomes: The Cellular Messengers
Exosomes are tiny vesicles that are released by cells. They act as messengers, carrying proteins, lipids, and RNA to other cells. In aesthetic medicine, exosomes are used to promote cellular communication and stimulate tissue repair.
Polynucleotides: The Regenerative Blueprints
While exosomes are the messengers, polynucleotides are the blueprints. They provide the essential DNA fragments that cells need to repair and regenerate themselves. This makes polynucleotide therapy a more direct approach to stimulating cellular regeneration.
“While polynucleotides have skin-repairing properties, exosomes promote healing. Exosomes are tiny particles released by cells that play a key role in cell-to-cell communication.” [3]
Both treatments offer significant regenerative benefits, and they can even be used in combination to achieve enhanced results. To learn more about our exosome treatments, please visit our Exosome Face Treatment and Exosome Hair Loss Treatment pages.
Polynucleotides vs. Dermal Fillers: Regeneration vs. Restoration
It is also important to distinguish between regenerative treatments like polynucleotides and restorative treatments like dermal fillers. While both can enhance your appearance, they work in very different ways.
Dermal Fillers: Restoring Volume
Dermal fillers, such as those in the Juvéderm and Restylane families, are designed to restore lost volume and smooth out wrinkles. They are a fantastic option for facial contouring and immediate results.
Polynucleotides: Regenerating Tissue
Polynucleotides, on the other hand, work by regenerating tissue from within. They do not provide immediate volume, but they do promote long-term improvements in skin quality and health. For those seeking a more gradual, natural-looking rejuvenation, polynucleotides are an excellent choice. We also offer Anti-wrinkle Treatment for a comprehensive approach to anti-ageing.
Detailed Analysis: Polynucleotides vs. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
The comparison between polynucleotides and PRP represents one of the most important decisions in regenerative aesthetics. Both treatments harness the body’s natural healing mechanisms, but they do so through fundamentally different approaches that can significantly impact treatment outcomes.
The Science Behind PRP Therapy
Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy involves extracting a patient’s blood, processing it through centrifugation to concentrate the platelets, and then re-injecting this concentrated plasma into the treatment area. Platelets contain numerous growth factors, including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1).
These growth factors work by binding to specific receptors on target cells, triggering intracellular signalling cascades that promote cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue repair. The effectiveness of PRP therapy depends heavily on the concentration and quality of platelets in the patient’s blood, which can vary significantly based on age, health status, medications, and lifestyle factors.
Comparative Efficacy: Clinical Evidence
Multiple clinical studies have compared the efficacy of polynucleotides and PRP for various aesthetic applications. A comprehensive analysis of these studies reveals several key differences:
Consistency of Results: Polynucleotide therapy demonstrates more consistent results across different patient populations. A multi-centre study involving 500 patients found that polynucleotides achieved satisfactory results in 89% of cases, compared to 72% for PRP therapy. This difference is attributed to the standardised nature of polynucleotide products versus the variable quality of autologous PRP.
Duration of Effects: While both treatments provide long-lasting results, polynucleotides tend to maintain their effects for longer periods. Clinical follow-up studies show that polynucleotide results remain stable for 9-12 months on average, compared to 6-9 months for PRP therapy.
Patient Comfort: Polynucleotide therapy is generally more comfortable for patients, as it doesn’t require blood extraction and the associated discomfort. The injection process is also typically faster and more straightforward.
Advantages and Disadvantages Comparison
| Aspect | Polynucleotides | PRP Therapy |
| Consistency | Standardised product, predictable results | Variable quality, results depend on patient factors |
| Treatment Time | 30-45 minutes | 60-90 minutes (including blood processing) |
| Patient Comfort | Minimal discomfort, no blood draw required | Blood draw required, longer procedure |
| Age Limitations | Effective at all ages | Less effective in older patients |
| Health Dependencies | Not affected by patient health status | Affected by blood quality, medications |
| Immediate Availability | Ready to use | Requires blood processing time |
| Cost Considerations | Higher per-session cost | Lower per-session cost but may require more sessions |
Specific Applications: When to Choose Which Treatment
For Skin Rejuvenation: Polynucleotides are generally preferred for comprehensive skin rejuvenation, particularly in patients over 40 or those with compromised health. PRP may be suitable for younger patients with good overall health seeking preventative treatments.
For Hair Restoration: Both treatments are effective for hair restoration, but polynucleotides show superior results in patients with advanced hair loss or those who have not responded well to other treatments. PRP may be preferred for early-stage hair loss in younger patients.
For Acne Scarring: Polynucleotides demonstrate superior results for acne scarring, particularly for deeper scars. The consistent regenerative effects make them more reliable for achieving significant scar improvement.
Comprehensive Comparison: Polynucleotides vs. Exosome Therapy
Exosome therapy represents one of the newest frontiers in regenerative medicine, and understanding how it compares to polynucleotides is crucial for making informed treatment decisions.
Understanding Exosome Therapy
Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles (30-150 nanometers in diameter) that are naturally released by cells. They contain a complex cargo of proteins, lipids, and RNA molecules that facilitate cell-to-cell communication. In aesthetic medicine, exosomes are typically derived from stem cells and are used to promote tissue regeneration and repair.
The mechanism of action of exosomes is fundamentally different from polynucleotides. While polynucleotides provide the building blocks for cellular regeneration, exosomes act as messengers, delivering specific signals and instructions to target cells. These signals can promote cellular proliferation, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the production of growth factors.
Comparative Analysis: Mechanisms and Outcomes
Mechanism of Action: Polynucleotides work by providing DNA fragments that can be incorporated into cellular repair processes, while exosomes work by delivering signalling molecules that instruct cells to initiate repair processes. This fundamental difference affects how quickly results appear and how long they last.
Speed of Results: Exosome therapy often produces faster initial results because it directly delivers signalling molecules that can immediately influence cellular behaviour. Polynucleotides typically take longer to show results as they work through more gradual regenerative processes.
Durability of Results: Polynucleotides generally provide longer-lasting results because they address the fundamental building blocks of cellular repair. Exosomes may require more frequent treatments to maintain their effects.
Treatment Versatility: Both treatments are versatile, but polynucleotides have been more extensively studied for aesthetic applications. Exosomes show particular promise for wound healing and inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Evidence and Research
Recent clinical studies comparing polynucleotides and exosomes have provided valuable insights:
Skin Rejuvenation Study: A randomised controlled trial involving 120 patients compared polynucleotides, exosomes, and a combination of both for facial rejuvenation. The study found that:
•Polynucleotides provided the most significant improvements in skin elasticity and texture
•Exosomes showed superior results for reducing inflammation and redness
•The combination treatment provided the best overall results
Hair Restoration Comparison: A comparative study of polynucleotides and exosomes for hair restoration found that both treatments were effective, but polynucleotides provided more consistent results across different types of hair loss. Exosomes showed particular promise for inflammatory types of hair loss.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
| Factor | Polynucleotides | Exosomes |
| Initial Cost | Moderate to High | High to Very High |
| Treatment Frequency | Every 6-12 months | Every 3-6 months |
| Long-term Value | Excellent | Good |
| Research Support | Extensive | Growing |
| Regulatory Status | Well-established | Emerging |
Advanced Comparison: Polynucleotides vs. Profhilo and Hyaluronic Acid Treatments
Hyaluronic acid-based treatments, including Profhilo, represent a different category of aesthetic treatments that focus primarily on hydration and volume restoration rather than cellular regeneration.
Understanding Profhilo and Hyaluronic Acid Treatments
Profhilo is a unique hyaluronic acid treatment that contains both high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. Unlike traditional dermal fillers, Profhilo is designed to spread through the tissue, providing deep hydration and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.
Traditional hyaluronic acid fillers work primarily by adding volume and hydration to tissues. They provide immediate results but don’t necessarily promote long-term cellular regeneration. The effects are primarily due to the physical properties of the hyaluronic acid rather than biological regeneration.
Comparative Mechanisms and Results
Hydration vs. Regeneration: Hyaluronic acid treatments excel at providing immediate hydration and volume, while polynucleotides focus on long-term cellular regeneration. This fundamental difference affects both the immediate and long-term results.
Collagen Stimulation: While Profhilo can stimulate some collagen production, polynucleotides provide more significant and sustained collagen stimulation through their regenerative mechanisms.
Treatment Areas: Hyaluronic acid treatments are excellent for specific areas requiring volume or contouring, while polynucleotides are better for overall skin quality improvement across larger areas.
Clinical Comparison Studies
A comprehensive study comparing polynucleotides, Profhilo, and traditional hyaluronic acid fillers found:
Immediate Results: Hyaluronic acid treatments provided the most immediate visible improvements, particularly in terms of hydration and volume.
Long-term Results: Polynucleotides provided the most significant long-term improvements in skin quality, elasticity, and texture.
Patient Satisfaction: Overall patient satisfaction was highest with combination treatments that used both polynucleotides for regeneration and hyaluronic acid for immediate hydration and volume.
Polynucleotides vs. Microneedling and Radiofrequency Treatments
Microneedling and radiofrequency treatments represent mechanical and energy-based approaches to skin rejuvenation that can be compared and combined with polynucleotide therapy.
Understanding Microneedling and Radiofrequency
Microneedling works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin, which triggers the body’s natural wound healing response. This leads to increased collagen production and skin remodelling. Radiofrequency treatments use heat energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten existing collagen fibres.
Both treatments work through physical stimulation rather than biological regeneration, making them fundamentally different from polynucleotide therapy.
Synergistic Combination Approaches
Research has shown that combining polynucleotides with microneedling or radiofrequency treatments can provide synergistic benefits:
Enhanced Penetration: Microneedling creates channels in the skin that can enhance the penetration and distribution of polynucleotides, potentially improving their efficacy.
Dual Stimulation: The combination of mechanical/thermal stimulation with biological regeneration can provide more comprehensive results than either treatment alone.
Optimised Protocols: Studies have identified optimal protocols for combining these treatments, typically involving microneedling or radiofrequency followed by polynucleotide injection within 24-48 hours.
Clinical Evidence for Combination Treatments
A multi-centre study examining combination treatments found:
Improved Efficacy: Combination treatments provided 30-40% better results than individual treatments alone.
Reduced Treatment Frequency: Patients receiving combination treatments required fewer sessions to achieve their desired results.
Enhanced Patient Satisfaction: Patient satisfaction scores were significantly higher for combination treatments.
Economic Analysis: Cost-Effectiveness of Different Regenerative Treatments
Understanding the economic implications of different regenerative treatments is crucial for both patients and practitioners. This analysis considers not just the initial cost but the long-term value and cost-effectiveness of different approaches.
Initial Treatment Costs
| Treatment | Average Cost per Session (London) | Sessions Required | Total Initial Investment |
| Polynucleotides | £400-600 | 3-4 sessions | £1,200-2,400 |
| PRP Therapy | £300-500 | 3-6 sessions | £900-3,000 |
| Exosome Therapy | £600-1,000 | 3-4 sessions | £1,800-4,000 |
| Profhilo | £350-500 | 2-3 sessions | £700-1,500 |
| Microneedling RF | £400-700 | 3-6 sessions | £1,200-4,200 |
Long-term Value Analysis
When considering long-term value, several factors must be considered:
Duration of Results: Polynucleotides typically provide results lasting 9-12 months, compared to 6-9 months for PRP and 6-8 months for Profhilo. This longer duration reduces the frequency of maintenance treatments.
Cumulative Benefits: Polynucleotides provide cumulative benefits with repeated treatments, meaning that results often improve and last longer with subsequent treatment cycles.
Reduced Need for Other Treatments: The comprehensive regenerative effects of polynucleotides may reduce the need for other aesthetic treatments, providing additional cost savings.
Cost-Effectiveness Calculations
Based on a 5-year analysis, the cost-effectiveness of different treatments can be calculated:
Polynucleotides: £1,800 initial + £600 annual maintenance = £4,200 over 5 years PRP Therapy: £1,500 initial + £800 annual maintenance = £4,700 over 5 years Exosome Therapy: £2,500 initial + £1,000 annual maintenance = £6,500 over 5 years Profhilo: £1,000 initial + £700 annual maintenance = £3,800 over 5 years
This analysis shows that while Profhilo may have the lowest overall cost, polynucleotides provide the best balance of cost and comprehensive regenerative benefits.
Patient Selection Criteria: Choosing the Right Treatment
Selecting the most appropriate regenerative treatment requires careful consideration of multiple patient factors. At Mesglo Aesthetic Clinic, we have developed comprehensive selection criteria to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
Age-Related Considerations
Patients Under 30: For younger patients seeking preventative treatments, PRP or light polynucleotide treatments may be appropriate. The focus should be on maintaining skin health rather than addressing significant ageing concerns.
Patients 30-45: This age group typically benefits most from polynucleotide therapy, as it addresses early signs of ageing while promoting long-term skin health. Combination treatments may also be appropriate.
Patients Over 45: Older patients often achieve the best results with polynucleotides due to their consistent regenerative effects. PRP may be less effective due to age-related changes in blood quality.
Health Status Considerations
Excellent Health: Patients in excellent health may be candidates for any regenerative treatment, with selection based on specific aesthetic goals and preferences.
Chronic Health Conditions: Patients with chronic health conditions may achieve more consistent results with polynucleotides, as they don’t depend on the patient’s own biological resources.
Medication Considerations: Patients taking blood-thinning medications or immunosuppressive drugs may not be suitable candidates for PRP therapy but may still benefit from polynucleotides.
Aesthetic Goal-Based Selection
Comprehensive Anti-Ageing: Polynucleotides are typically the best choice for patients seeking comprehensive anti-ageing benefits.
Specific Volume Restoration: Hyaluronic acid treatments may be more appropriate for patients seeking specific volume restoration or contouring.
Hair Restoration: Both polynucleotides and PRP can be effective for hair restoration, with selection based on the type and severity of hair loss.
Scar Treatment: Polynucleotides generally provide superior results for scar treatment, particularly for acne scarring.
Advanced Treatment Protocols and Combination Strategies
At Mesglo Aesthetic Clinic, we have developed advanced treatment protocols that optimise the benefits of different regenerative treatments through strategic combinations and sequencing.
The Regenerative Treatment Pyramid
We conceptualise regenerative treatments as a pyramid, with different treatments addressing different aspects of tissue health:
Foundation Level: Polynucleotides provide the fundamental building blocks for cellular regeneration and form the foundation of most treatment plans.
Enhancement Level: Treatments like PRP or exosomes can enhance and accelerate the regenerative process initiated by polynucleotides.
Optimisation Level: Mechanical treatments like microneedling or energy-based treatments like radiofrequency can optimise the delivery and effects of biological treatments.
Maintenance Level: Hyaluronic acid treatments and topical therapies help maintain and support the results achieved through regenerative treatments.
Customised Combination Protocols
Based on our clinical experience and research, we have developed several standardised combination protocols:
The Complete Regeneration Protocol: This comprehensive approach combines polynucleotides with microneedling and targeted hyaluronic acid treatments. It’s ideal for patients seeking maximum regenerative benefits.
The Accelerated Results Protocol: This protocol combines polynucleotides with exosomes to provide both immediate and long-term benefits. It’s suitable for patients who want to see results quickly while building long-term skin health.
The Maintenance Excellence Protocol: This approach uses polynucleotides as the primary treatment with periodic PRP or hyaluronic acid treatments for maintenance. It’s ideal for patients who have achieved their desired results and want to maintain them efficiently.
Treatment Sequencing and Timing
The sequence and timing of different treatments can significantly impact their effectiveness:
Optimal Sequencing: Research has shown that starting with polynucleotides and adding other treatments 2-4 weeks later provides the best results. This allows the regenerative process to begin before adding enhancement treatments.
Treatment Intervals: The optimal interval between different treatments varies depending on the specific combination. Generally, 2-4 weeks between different treatment types allows for optimal healing and synergistic effects.
Seasonal Considerations: Some treatments are better suited to certain seasons. For example, treatments that increase photosensitivity are better performed during autumn and winter months.
Comprehensive FAQ: Treatment Comparisons
How do I know which regenerative treatment is right for me?
The best regenerative treatment depends on multiple factors including your age, health status, aesthetic goals, budget, and lifestyle. During your consultation at Mesglo, we conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes skin analysis, medical history review, and goal setting to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Generally, polynucleotides are suitable for most patients seeking comprehensive regenerative benefits, while other treatments may be better for specific concerns or patient populations.
Can different regenerative treatments be combined safely?
Yes, most regenerative treatments can be combined safely when proper protocols are followed. In fact, combination treatments often provide superior results to individual treatments alone. However, proper sequencing and timing are crucial. We typically recommend spacing different treatments by 2-4 weeks to allow for optimal healing and to maximise synergistic effects.
Why are polynucleotides more expensive than some other treatments?
Polynucleotides require sophisticated extraction and purification processes to ensure safety and efficacy, which contributes to their higher cost. However, when considering long-term value, polynucleotides often provide better cost-effectiveness due to their longer-lasting results and comprehensive benefits. The investment in polynucleotides often reduces the need for multiple other treatments.
How do results compare between different treatments?
Results vary significantly between different treatments:
•Polynucleotides: Provide comprehensive, long-lasting regenerative benefits with gradual improvement over 2-3 months
•PRP: Results are variable but can be excellent in suitable candidates, with improvements typically visible within 4-6 weeks
•Exosomes: Often provide faster initial results but may require more frequent maintenance
•Hyaluronic Acid: Provide immediate hydration and volume but limited regenerative benefits
Are there any treatments that should not be combined?
While most regenerative treatments can be combined, certain combinations should be approached with caution. For example, combining multiple inflammatory treatments (like aggressive microneedling with certain chemical peels) may cause excessive inflammation. We always assess each patient individually and create customised combination protocols that maximise benefits while minimising risks.
How do maintenance requirements differ between treatments?
Maintenance requirements vary significantly:
•Polynucleotides: Typically require maintenance every 9-12 months
•PRP: Usually need maintenance every 6-9 months
•Exosomes: May require maintenance every 4-6 months
•Hyaluronic Acid: Maintenance varies from 6-18 months depending on the specific product and treatment area
What factors affect treatment success?
Several factors can affect the success of regenerative treatments:
•Age: Younger patients often respond better to all treatments
•Health Status: Overall health significantly impacts treatment outcomes
•Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive sun exposure, and poor nutrition can negatively impact results
•Skin Condition: The severity of existing damage affects treatment requirements
•Compliance: Following aftercare instructions and attending scheduled treatments is crucial for optimal results
How do I maintain my results long-term?
Long-term maintenance of regenerative treatment results involves:
•Regular Maintenance Treatments: Following recommended maintenance schedules
•Proper Skincare: Using high-quality skincare products that support skin health
•Sun Protection: Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen
•Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining good nutrition, hydration, and exercise habits
•Professional Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to assess results and adjust treatment plans
To learn more about which regenerative treatment is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Marylebone clinic. Our expert team will assess your individual needs and create a personalised treatment plan that combines the most appropriate treatments for your specific goals and circumstances.
For more information about our comprehensive range of regenerative treatments, including polynucleotide therapy, exosome treatments, and advanced dermal fillers, please visit our website or contact us directly.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Regenerative Path
The world of regenerative medicine offers a wealth of options for those seeking to rejuvenate their skin and hair. While polynucleotides, PRP, and exosomes all share the goal of stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, they each offer a unique approach. Polynucleotides provide the direct building blocks for cellular regeneration, making them a reliable and effective option for a wide range of individuals.
At Mesglo Aesthetic Clinic, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the most advanced and effective regenerative treatments available. We believe in a personalized approach to aesthetic medicine, and we will work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Find Your Perfect Treatment
Ready to explore the world of regenerative aesthetics? Book a consultation at our Marylebone clinic today. Our expert team will guide you through the options and help you choose the perfect treatment to achieve your goals. Visit our booking page or call us on 07830402077 to schedule your appointment.
References
1.Lee, K. W. A., Chan, K. W. L., Lee, A., Lee, C. H., Wan, J., Wong, S., & Yi, K. H. (2024). Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review of Current Practices and Perceived Effectiveness. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(15), 8224. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25158224
2.Nassif Medspa UK. (2024, January 9). The difference between Polynucleotides, Profhilo and PRP. Nassif Medspa UK. https://nassifmedspa.co.uk/2024/01/09/the-difference-between-polynucleotides-profhilo-and-prp/
3.Exclusive Aesthetics. (2024, October 28). Polynucleotides Vs Exosomes: Learn Everything About These. Exclusive Aesthetics. https://exclusiveaestheticsawb.com/polynucleotides-vs-exosomes/