If you suffer from dark circles, hollow under-eyes, or your eyes can just look tired regardless of how much sleep you get , using polynucleotides for the under eyes is one of the most effective treatments available today. Rather than adding volume or freezing movement, this treatment focuses on improving the quality of the under-eye skin itself, which is often the real cause of ageing in this area.

What Are Polynucleotides and How Do They Work?

Polynucleotides are a biostimulation and biorevitalisation treatment designed to repair and strengthen the skin at a cellular level. They are derived from purified salmon DNA, which is highly compatible with human skin. Once injected, they support cell repair, improve skin quality and stimulate collagen production. Simply put, they help your cells act as they would have when you were younger.

Polynucleotides are highly hydrophilic, meaning they attract and bind water within the skin. This creates deep hydration, which improves elasticity and resilience in the under-eye area. The hydration effect is visible early on and continues over time because polynucleotides break down slowly in the skin.

To explore even more about how polynucleotides work and why they’ve become one of the most talked-about regenerative skin treatments, read our full guide on What Are Polynucleotides?

Why Are Under-Eye Concerns So Difficult to Treat?

Under-eye concerns are difficult to treat because the skin in this area is very thin and delicate. The eye area itself can be a dangerous location for treatment if the injector lacks anatomy knowledge and training. It also has fewer oil glands and less natural support than other areas of the face. As we age, fibroblasts become less active, which leads to reduced collagen, lower hydration and hollowing. 

This combination often causes fine lines, crepey skin, dark circles and a tired look. Many topical products struggle to penetrate deeply enough to make a real difference, and volume-based treatments are not suitable for everyone.

Why Do Polynucleotides Work for Under-Eye Concerns?

Polynucleotides are purified DNA fragments derived from salmon and trout sources. While that may sound surprising, what makes them remarkable is their structural similarity to human DNA. This allows the skin to recognise and use them effectively to treat under-eye concerns. When polynucleotides are injected superficially they break down into mononucleotides.

These building blocks attach to fibroblasts and encourage them to produce new collagen and elastin over the following weeks. This leads to thicker, healthier skin that reflects light better and appears smoother. Because the improvement happens gradually, results look natural and not overdone.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Under-Eye Polynucleotides?

Polynucleotides are a good option for people who want to improve under-eye skin quality without adding volume. They are ideal if the main concern is fine lines, fragile skin, or a tired appearance.

Who are polynucleotides for under eyes great for?

This treatment works well for fine lines and crepey under-eye skin by boosting collagen and elasticity. It helps with dark circles linked to circulation and dehydration, giving a brighter look. It is also excellent for thin under-eye skin that needs strengthening and repair.

Who are polynucleotides for under eyes NOT recommended for?

Polynucleotides are not suitable for prominent eye bags caused by fat pads, as they do not dissolve fat. They are also not enough on their own for severe skin laxity, where a combination of treatments may be required.

How Is Under-Eye Polynucleotide Treatment Different From Fillers?

Under-eye fillers replace lost volume, while polynucleotides improve skin quality. Fillers sit in the tissue and can attract water, which may lead to puffiness in some people. Polynucleotides do not add volume and do not carry the same risk of fluid retention.

This makes polynucleotides a safer option for patients with thin skin, mild hollowness, or concerns about swelling. In some cases, polynucleotides are used first to improve the skin before considering a small amount of filler later.

What Happens During Polynucleotide Eye Treatment?

Polynucleotides are placed very superficially using  small, shallow injections into the delicate under-eye skin. Most patients find the procedure quick and easy, and it is generally very well tolerated. Some patients choose to apply numbing cream to the area as it can be a little stingy. Due to the injections being so superficial, most patients will get small blebs at each injection site (they can look like a bee sting), this is completely normal and usually settles within 24 hours.

Although many people notice their skin looking fresher after the first session, polynucleotides work best for the under eyes when given as a course of treatments. Usually, two to four sessions are recommended, spaced about two weeks apart at the beginning. As the skin gradually builds collagen and strength, results continue to improve over the following weeks. It is recommended to have maintenance treatments every 9-12 months to maintain optimum results. 

Polynucleotide Eye Treatment at MediZen

At MediZen, we know how much the under-eye area can affect your overall appearance and confidence. Our doctor-led clinic in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, specialises in personalised treatments that help you feel refreshed and more like yourself again.

Polynucleotides are one of the advanced injectable options we offer to improve skin quality, restore hydration and diminish the signs of ageing around the eyes. Because every person’s skin and goals are unique, we always begin with a consultation so our expert team can understand your concerns and recommend the best approach tailored specifically to you. That can be polynucleotides, other injectables or a combined treatment plan.

If you’re ready to explore how polynucleotide treatment could benefit you, book a consultation today with our experienced team. Curious how patients feel after their aesthetic treatments? Read real experiences and outcomes from our MediZen community.