.png)
As the aesthetics industry continues to evolve, new treatments and technologies are constantly emerging to help people rejuvenate their skin and hair. Two of the latest buzzwords in this space are polynucleotides and exosomes. While these might sound like terms reserved for scientists and dermatologists, they’re actually making waves in beauty treatments for their ability to enhance skin health, stimulate hair growth, and combat signs of aging.
But what exactly are polynucleotides and exosomes? How do they work? And, most importantly, how can they benefit your skin and hair? In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between the two and explore their roles in aesthetics.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are long chains of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA and RNA. In the world of aesthetics, polynucleotides are often used in skin rejuvenation treatments due to their ability to promote healing and tissue regeneration. These compounds are typically derived from natural sources, such as fish or plant cells, and can be injected into the skin to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin—the proteins responsible for skin’s firmness and elasticity.
When applied topically or through injection, polynucleotides help to:
Boost collagen production: Encouraging skin regeneration and improving the texture and elasticity.
Hydrate and revitalize the skin: Helping to plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Promote healing: Supporting recovery from skin damage or treatments like microneedling or chemical peels.
This makes them particularly effective in treatments targeting skin aging, uneven skin tone, and skin laxity, as well as for post-treatment recovery. They are often used as part of mesotherapy or skin booster procedures, where tiny injections are placed into the skin for localized rejuvenation.
What Are Exosomes?
Exosomes, on the other hand, are tiny vesicles or sacs that are naturally secreted by cells. They play a crucial role in cell communication, helping cells share information with one another. In the context of aesthetics, exosomes are often derived from stem cells and are packed with proteins, lipids, and RNA. These molecules can influence cell behaviour, encouraging tissue regeneration and healing.
Exosome therapy is gaining attention in skincare and hair restoration treatments for its ability to:
Stimulate cellular repair and regeneration: Exosomes help promote the growth of healthy, youthful skin by enhancing the function of the body's natural cells.
Encourage hair growth: Exosomes have been shown to support the revitalization of hair follicles, making them an exciting option for those struggling with hair thinning or loss.
Improve skin tone and texture: By stimulating collagen production and boosting cell turnover, exosomes can reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
Exosome treatments are typically delivered via micro-needling or injections, where the exosome-rich serum is applied directly to the skin or scalp. These treatments are highly regarded for their ability to tackle multiple skin concerns, including sun damage, scar healing, and overall skin rejuvenation.
Polynucleotides vs Exosomes: What’s the Difference?
While both polynucleotides and exosomes are used for skin and hair rejuvenation, they operate in different ways and can offer distinct benefits. Here's a quick comparison:
Aspect | Polynucleotides | Exosomes |
Source | Derived from DNA/RNA chains (often plant or animal-based) | Derived from stem cells or cell cultures |
Main Function | Stimulate collagen production and skin regeneration | Enhance cell communication and accelerate tissue repair |
Uses | Skin rejuvenation, fine lines, wrinkles, skin healing | Skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, tissue regeneration |
Treatment Type | Injections, mesotherapy | Injections, micro-needling |
Key Benefits | Hydrates, revitalizes, and repairs skin | Regenerates cells, improves skin texture, promotes hair growth |
Duration of Effects | Gradual improvement over time | Faster, more immediate visible results |
Which One is Right for You?
Both polynucleotides and exosomes have unique advantages in aesthetic treatments. If you're primarily concerned with hydrating your skin, improving skin elasticity, or healing after a cosmetic procedure, polynucleotides might be the ideal choice. They’re especially effective for addressing fine lines and improving overall skin tone and texture.
On the other hand, if you're looking to stimulate hair growth, or if you want a treatment that targets both skin regeneration and tissue repair, exosome therapy could be the way to go. Exosomes are a great option for people looking to rejuvenate their skin while simultaneously tackling hair thinning or damage.
For optimal results, some individuals opt to combine both treatments—using polynucleotides for skin rejuvenation and exosomes for advanced healing and hair restoration. As always, it’s best to consult with a qualified aesthetic professional who can guide you based on your specific needs.
Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Regeneration
Whether you choose polynucleotides, exosomes, or both, these ground-breaking treatments offer exciting possibilities for those seeking skin and hair rejuvenation. By harnessing the power of these natural compounds, you can restore vitality, repair damaged tissue, and achieve a more youthful appearance.
If you’re considering one of these treatments, be sure to consult with a skincare specialist or aesthetician who can help you determine the best approach for your individual goals.
References and further reading
1. Park, K.Y. et al. (2015) ‘Long-chain polynucleotide filler for skin rejuvenation: Efficacy and complications in five patients’, Dermatologic Therapy, 29(1), pp. 37–40. doi:10.1111/dth.12299.
2. Cavallini, M. et al. (2020) ‘Consensus report on the use of PN‐HPTTM (polynucleotides highly purified technology) in Aesthetic Medicine’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 20(3), pp. 922–928. doi:10.1111/jocd.13679.
3. Vyas, K.S. et al. (2023) ‘Exosomes: The latest in Regenerative Aesthetics’, Regenerative Medicine, 18(2), pp. 181–194. doi:10.2217/rme-2022-0134.
4. Zhang, B. et al. (2022) ‘Exosomes based advancements for application in medical aesthetics’, Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 10. doi:10.3389/fbioe.2022.1083640.
5. Zhou, Y. et al. (2024) ‘Exosomes for hair growth and regeneration’, Journal of Bioscience and Bioengineering, 137(1), pp. 1–8. doi:10.1016/j.jbiosc.2023.11.001.
Comments