polynucleotides aftercare information

Polynucleotides Aftercare

Polynucleotides are skin boosters that aid in skin rejuvenation by improving elasticity and overall skin quality. After your treatment, it’s important to allow the skin time to rest and recover for the best possible results. Follow these aftercare guidelines to minimise side effects and maximise your treatment benefits.


1. Immediate Post-Treatment Expectations

  • Mild Swelling, Redness, or Bruising
    It’s normal to see some swelling or redness at the injection sites, as well as tiny bumps. These effects typically settle within 1–2 days. Bruising may also occur and usually fades within a week.
  • “Lumpy” Appearance
    The polynucleotide product can form small, firm bumps under the skin. Do not massage, rub, or pick at these lumps; they will naturally disperse over the course of a few days.

2. General Aftercare Guidelines

  1. Avoid Heat & Hot Environments (7 Days)
    Refrain from saunas, hot yoga, intense workouts, sunbeds, or any environment that generates excessive heat. High heat can aggravate swelling and prolong recovery.
  2. No Touching or Pressure
    Keep your hands off the treated areas for at least 24 hours. This includes avoiding facials or other treatments that could irritate the skin.
  3. SPF Protection
    Apply SPF 50 or a high broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect the treated areas, especially if you’re exposed to sunlight.
  4. Skip Swimming Pools (48 Hours)
    Avoid chlorinated or public pools to reduce the risk of infection or irritation.
  5. Stay Hydrated
    Drinking plenty of water supports the healing process and helps maintain skin hydration.

3. Skincare Precautions

  • Gentle Cleansing
    Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the treated area.
  • No Active Ingredients
    Hold off on retinol, tretinoin, acids (AHAs, BHAs), hydroquinone, or other harsh products for 5–7 days before and after your treatment. These can increase irritation and disrupt healing.
  • Avoid Makeup (24 Hours)
    Steer clear of makeup right after treatment to keep the skin clean and reduce infection risk. After the first day, you can use light makeup if needed (make sure your brushes or applicators are clean).

4. Potential Side Effects & How to Manage Them

  1. Redness & Swelling

    • Typically subsides within 48 hours.
    • You can use a cool compress intermittently to calm the area.
    • Reduce high-salt foods, alcohol, and intense exercise to help keep swelling down.
  2. Bruising

    • Varies by individual; fades within a week.
    • To reduce the likelihood of bruising, avoid alcohol, vitamin E, St. John’s Wort, garlic, turmeric, chia seeds, Ginkgo biloba, and flaxseed oil.
    • Arnica supplements (with your practitioner’s approval) may help lessen bruising.
  3. Itching or Tenderness

    • A common sign your skin is healing. Usually settles in a couple of days.
    • Over-the-counter antihistamines can help if itching becomes uncomfortable.
    • If itching is severe or worrisome, contact your practitioner.
  4. Lumps or Nodules

    • Small, firm lumps can appear right after injections. These typically disappear as the product disperses.
    • Do not massage or apply pressure to these lumps.

5. Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Avoid Strenuous Exercise (48 Hours)
    Heavy workouts can increase sweating and bacterial exposure around injection sites, potentially prolonging redness or swelling.
  • Hold Off on Other Facial Treatments (14 Days)
    Postpone electrolysis, peels, waxing, bleaching, depilatory creams, other injectables, and laser hair removal so your skin can heal without added stress.
  • Limit Alcohol (24 Hours)
    Drinking alcohol can exacerbate swelling and bruising. Minimising intake will support faster, more comfortable healing.

6. When to Contact Us

  • Unexpected Side Effects
    If you notice unusual or prolonged redness, swelling, lumps, or irritation beyond the typical 1–2 days, please reach out immediately.
  • Any Concerns or Questions
    Your comfort and safety are our top priority. If you have any doubts or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to contact our clinic.

Key Dos & Don’ts Summary

DODON’T
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water.
Overdo the Alcohol
This can worsen bruising & swelling.
Use Gentle Skincare
Mild cleanser/moist.
Rub or Pick
Leave lumps or bumps alone.
Apply SPF
Use SPF 50 daily.
Expose Skin to Heat
No saunas, steam rooms for 7 days.
Keep Cool
Avoid strenuous exercise.
Wear Makeup
Avoid for at least 24 hours.
Contact Practitioner
If you have concerns.
Add Active Ingredients
No retinoids/acids for 5–7 days.

By following these aftercare instructions, you’ll give your skin the optimal environment to heal and rejuvenate. Thank you for choosing The Doctors Laser Clinic for your Polynucleotide treatment! If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch—we’re here to help you enjoy safe, beautiful results. 

polynucleotides aftercare qr code

book an appointment

All treatments start with an initial consultation with one of our team. During your consultation we learn about your areas of concern and treatment goals.

WE ARE OPEN!

All our staff have been vaccinated against Covid-19 thus reducing mutual risk. As a Covid-Safe, CQC Registered Medical Clinic with Ventilation that ensures TWELVE air changes per hour your safety is our priority. 

We are continuing to adhere to strict protocols so the car park will continue as our waiting room for the time being. We look forward to welcoming you back!

Feel free to contact us on 01603 360 360 or at info@laserdocs.co.uk.