With the rise of skin boosters and injectable moisturisers, two treatments often come up in conversation: Polynucleotides and Profhilo. Both offer hydration and skin rejuvenation without adding volume, but they work in fundamentally different ways. So, how do you know which one is right for you?
At Omniya Clinic in London, we specialise in both polynucleotide and Profhilo treatments and understand the strengths of each. This page will guide you through how they differ, what they do best, and when one might be more suitable than the other.
Explore our full polynucleotide treatment offering here.
What Is Profhilo?
Profhilo is a highly concentrated injectable form of hyaluronic acid (HA). Unlike traditional dermal fillers, which are designed to add volume or sculpt specific features, Profhilo spreads beneath the skin to hydrate, plump, and stimulate collagen in a natural, subtle way.
- Contains 64mg of pure HA per 2ml syringe
- Treats areas like the face, neck, décolletage, and hands
- Typically requires two sessions, one month apart
- Best for widespread hydration and elasticity
Profhilo is often described as a “liquid moisturiser” that works from the inside out, giving your skin a dewy, luminous finish.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are injectable biostimulants made from highly purified DNA fragments, often derived from salmon. Rather than adding moisture directly, polynucleotides trigger your body to regenerate collagen, repair skin tissue, and reduce inflammation.
At Omniya, we use advanced formulations such as Ameela Polynucleotides, especially effective in delicate areas like under the eyes.
Learn more about polynucleotide injections at Omniya
Mechanism of Action: Hydration vs Regeneration
Understanding how Profhilo and polynucleotides work beneath the surface can help you choose the treatment best suited to your skin goals.
Profhilo: Deep Hydration and Subtle Stimulation
Profhilo is an injectable treatment made of high concentrations of pure hyaluronic acid (HA) – a substance naturally found in the skin that attracts and holds moisture. Once injected, it spreads smoothly and evenly beneath the skin, without adding volume in the way traditional fillers do.
It works by:
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Delivering intense hydration to the deeper layers of the skin
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Stimulating collagen and elastin production, though to a lesser extent than polynucleotides
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Improving skin texture, firmness and radiance over broad areas like the cheeks, neck, and hands
Profhilo acts almost like a skin-conditioning treatment. It doesn’t stay put in one spot but flows across the tissue, enhancing overall skin tone and plumpness.
Polynucleotides: Cellular Repair and Regeneration
Polynucleotides are derived from purified DNA fragments and act more like a biological repair agent than a hydrator. Their strength lies in promoting true regeneration rather than simply moisturising.
They work by:
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Activating fibroblasts, which are the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin
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Encouraging tissue repair at the DNA level, aiding recovery from sun damage, scars, and thinning skin
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Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which accelerates the ageing process
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Improving microcirculation, especially useful in delicate areas like under the eyes
Polynucleotides are especially powerful in treating targeted concerns, such as crepey under-eye skin, acne scarring, or post-inflammatory pigmentation, making them a more restorative option.
In Summary
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Profhilo is ideal for overall skin hydration and glow, particularly across the face, neck and hands.
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Polynucleotides offer a more targeted, therapeutic approach to cellular regeneration and healing.
Both result in fresher, firmer-looking skin—but they work through distinct biological pathways. Some patients even combine both treatments for complementary benefits.
Read more: What are Polynucleotides?
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose Profhilo if you want to:
- Hydrate dry or dull skin quickly
- Target large treatment areas (e.g. face, neck, chest)
- Achieve a “glow” with minimal downtime
Choose Polynucleotides if you want to:
- Repair skin damage or acne scarring
- Treat sensitive or delicate areas like under the eyes
- Improve skin structure over time
- Support skin recovery after inflammation
They’re not necessarily an either/or. At Omniya, we often combine both treatments as part of a layered, personalised plan.
Where Can Each Be Used?
Both Profhilo and polynucleotides are versatile injectable treatments that target skin quality, but they shine in slightly different areas depending on your specific concern. The table below highlights where each treatment tends to perform best. While Profhilo is known for its hydrating, plumping effect across large areas like the face and neck, polynucleotides (such as Ameela) excel in delicate or problem-prone zones, including under the eyes and areas affected by acne scarring. For anyone looking to improve elasticity, tone, and skin regeneration, understanding these distinctions can help guide the most effective treatment plan.
| Area | Profhilo | Polynucleotides |
|---|---|---|
| Full face | Yes | Yes |
| Under eyes | Limited use | Yes – ideal (especially with Ameela) |
| Neck & décolletage | Yes | Yes |
| Scarring | No | Yes |
| Hands | Yes | Yes |
Can You Combine Polynucleotides and Profhilo?
Yes - and many of our patients do. Polynucleotides can be used to restore skin structure and stimulate regeneration, while Profhilo provides surface-level hydration and firmness. Together, they offer a multi-layered approach to skin quality.
Example protocol at Omniya:
- Start with polynucleotides (2 sessions, 2–3 weeks apart)
- Follow with Profhilo 3–4 weeks later for hydration and glow
Discuss your personalised plan at your consultation
Longevity of Results
- Profhilo: Results typically last 6 months, with top-ups recommended every 4–6 months
- Polynucleotides: Results can last 6–9 months or more with cumulative improvement over time
See the long-term benefits of polynucleotide boosters
Side Effects and Safety
Both treatments are safe and well-tolerated when administered by medical professionals. Common side effects include mild redness, swelling, or bruising at injection sites, usually resolving within 24–48 hours.
Polynucleotides, especially Ameela, are biocompatible and suitable for patients with sensitive or reactive skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better – Profhilo or Polynucleotides?
They serve different purposes. Profhilo is best for hydration and glow; polynucleotides are best for repair and long-term skin quality.
Can I switch from Profhilo to Polynucleotides?
Yes. Many patients alternate or combine them depending on their skin needs at the time.
Is one more natural-looking than the other?
Both treatments give natural results. Polynucleotides work more gradually and are often imperceptible to others, which makes them ideal for under-eye or subtle facial work.
Do I need downtime?
Minimal. You may experience slight redness or swelling, but this resolves quickly.
Can men benefit from these treatments?
Absolutely. Both Profhilo and Polynucleotides are popular among men seeking non-invasive skin rejuvenation.
Book your consultation to find out what suits your skin best
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
If your main goal is intense hydration and visible glow, Profhilo may be your go-to. If you're focused on rebuilding collagen, addressing signs of damage, or treating sensitive areas like the eyes, polynucleotides will likely offer greater benefits.
At Omniya Clinic, we often recommend a personalised combination for optimal results - depending on your skin’s current condition, goals, and response to treatment.
Learn more about our regenerative skin solutions
Book a Skin Booster Consultation at Omniya
Whether you're considering Profhilo, Polynucleotides, or both, our expert doctors in London can create a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your skin's needs.
