Profhilo vs. Polynucleotides: What’s the Difference?
Both Profhilo and polynucleotide treatments have been increasing in popularity and profile, loved for their ability to improve hydration, collagen production, and overall skin appearance. Though there are parallels between the two, they are different in terms of their ingredients, the ways they work, and in their results. Dr. Ahmed, an expert in aesthetic medicine, says his clinic has seen demand moving away from filler and Botox and more toward biostimulators - injectables that encourage the body’s own production of collagen and elastin. If you’ve been tempted by either, you may be unsure of exactly what the differences are, as well as which one is right for you.
What is Profhilo?
According to Dr. Ahmed, “Profhilo is basically injectable hyaluronic acid. It helps with skin hydration, increases some of the natural collagen, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. It also gives the skin a subtle glow.” Profhilo is primarily known for its ability to deliver deep hydration, leading to improved skin elasticity and a more youthful appearance. However, its effects tend to be temporary, as once the added hydration is gone, the results fade.
What are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides, on the other hand, are chains of DNA, typically derived from salmon or trout, and highly compatible with human DNA. Dr. Ahmed explains, “Polynucleotides help with hydration, protect the skin from free radicals, and stimulate collagen and elastin production.” Unlike Profhilo, which focuses on hydration, polynucleotides provide a more profound and lasting effect by improving the skin's structure. This makes them ideal for people looking for long-term skin regeneration.
Key Differences
While both treatments hydrate and improve skin texture, the way they work differs significantly. Dr. Ahmed points out that Profhilo, “once the hydration is gone, it’s gone,” whereas polynucleotides help “improve the structure of your skin and leave you in a better place.” This means that polynucleotides tend to offer more lasting results, improving the skin's overall quality by enhancing collagen and elastin production.
Another key difference is the versatility of polynucleotides in terms of application. “You can use polynucleotides in a lot more places, like around the eyes, whereas with Profhilo, you can’t,” Dr. Ahmed explains. This makes polynucleotides a more versatile option for those seeking comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
But Profhilo tends to have fewer injection points, meaning less discomfort compared to polynucleotides, and it’s more affordable. Plus, the results from Profhilo can be seen more quickly, while polynucleotides may take a bit longer to show noticeable improvements due to their deeper regenerative approach.
What’s better for me?
Both Profhilo and polynucleotides offer unique benefits for skin rejuvenation. Profhilo is an excellent choice for those seeking immediate hydration and a youthful glow, while polynucleotides provide more profound and lasting structural improvements to the skin. As Dr. Ahmed highlights, the decision between the two will depend on your specific skin goals, budget, and the areas of your face you wish to treat.
Aftercare and Results
In terms of aftercare, Dr. Ahmed suggests similar guidelines for both treatments: “No alcohol, no gym, no sauna, nothing that increases your temperature for 24 hours afterwards.”
To maximise the results of treatments like Profhilo and polynucleotides, Dr. Ahmed emphasises the importance of gentle, hydrating skincare during the aftercare period. Keeping your skincare routine simple and nourishing is key to healthy, glowing results. Since Profhilo and polynucleotides work by deeply hydrating and regenerating the skin, using the right topical products can help maintain and prolong their benefits.
“Look for products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, B vitamins, niacinamide, peptides, and ceramides,” he says. “These support the skin’s moisture barrier and enhance the effects of injectable treatments.”
Dr. Ahmed also advises avoiding harsh ingredients post-treatment. “Stay away from anything that can irritate or dry out the skin,” he warns, including strong retinoids, BHAs, AHAs, scrubs, and alcohol-based products.
Aftercare Recommendations
Our Hyaluronic Acid Pick: Hydrinity | Restorative HA Serum (30ml)
Intensely hydrates and plumps the skin, enhancing cellular repair and maximising visible treatment results.
Our Niacinamide Pick: pHformula | POST Recovery Plus Cream (50ml)
Calms inflammation, supports skin barrier repair, and reduces post-treatment redness.
Our Peptides Pick: HydroPeptide | Barrier Builder (50ml)
Strengthens the skin’s natural defences, reducing sensitivity and supporting longer-lasting treatment benefits.
Our Ceramides Pick: Epionce | Renewal Calming Cream (230g)
Sinks in to soothe irritation and lock in moisture, creating an optimal environment and amplifying the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Our DNA Repair Pick: Alastin Skincare | Skin Nectar (29ml)
Supports skin regeneration, reduces downtime, and enhances results after treatments.
Our Barrier Recovery Pick: Obagi | Rebalance Skin Barrier Cream (48g)
Formulated with BarrierPlex™ Technology, this cream combines postbiotics, hydrating agents, and soothing ingredients that help restore and rebalance the skin's microbiome.
If you have any specific questions, speak to our experts - for free. Book an appointment online here. Alternatively, email hello@skinpharmacy.com or call us on 020 3070 3833 or 07522 002050.
