Are Polynucleotide Treatments Painful?

Key Takeaways

• Polynucleotides are increasingly popular for enhancing skin quality.
• Injection procedures may involve some degree of treatment discomfort.
• Pain perception can vary widely among individuals.
• Understanding pain factors can help alleviate concerns.
• Effective techniques are available to minimise discomfort.
• Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into real experiences.

What Are Polynucleotides and How Are They Administered?

Polynucleotides are biostimulatory agents formed by long chains of nucleotides, often derived from sources such as salmon DNA. Polynucleotide injections in cosmetic procedures revolve around stimulating collagen and elastin production, leading to improved skin quality. The polynucleotide treatment is generally administered through injections, targeting specific regions to optimise results.

Injection Sites and Depth

Common injection sites for polynucleotide treatment include areas prone to visible signs of ageing, such as around the eyes, cheeks, and neck. The depth of the injections plays an important role in the effectiveness of the treatment and the pain during treatment. Proper selection of these sites enhances the overall experience and helps achieve desired outcomes.

Typical Volume and Treatment Areas

The volume administered during the treatment can vary based on your specific needs and concerns. Typical treatment areas may require different amounts of polynucleotides to ensure optimal results, which can influence how substantial the pain during treatment may be. Understanding these variables is essential in setting realistic expectations.

How Administration Technique Affects Pain

The administration technique significantly impacts the level of discomfort experienced. Techniques can range from multiple small injections to the use of a cannula, which aims to minimise discomfort. The choice of technique and the practitioner’s expertise both contribute to managing pain during treatment, ultimately enhancing patient satisfaction.

Understanding Pain Levels During Polynucleotide Injections

Pain perception varies significantly among individuals undergoing polynucleotide injections. This variability can be attributed to factors such as age, skin thickness, anxiety levels, and any concurrent treatments being pursued. Understanding these influences can enhance your approach to pain management during these procedures.

Factors Influencing Pain Perception (Age, Skin Thickness, Anxiety, Concurrent Treatments)

Everyone experiences treatment differently, and several factors can affect how much discomfort you may feel during polynucleotide injections. These include:

• Age: Older patients may be more sensitive due to age-related changes in the skin and nerves.
• Skin thickness: Thinner skin often results in heightened pain perception, while thicker skin may tolerate injections more comfortably.
• Anxiety levels: Feeling nervous or anticipating pain can amplify discomfort during the procedure.
• Concurrent treatments: Receiving other aesthetic treatments at the same time may increase overall sensitivity

Comparison with Other Injectable Treatments (Hyaluronic Acid and Botox)

When compared to other injectables such as hyaluronic acid fillers and Botox, most patients describe the level of discomfort as fairly similar. Some note that polynucleotides can cause a brief stinging sensation, likely linked to their biostimulating action, but this is usually short-lived. Each treatment feels slightly different, so personal tolerance and sensitivity play a key role in how the experience is perceived.

• Polynucleotides: Discomfort arises from their biostimulating action on fibroblasts and tissue, typically felt as a brief stinging or mild burning sensation during injection.
• Hyaluronic acid fillers: The sensation is caused by the gel volume being introduced beneath the skin, often described as pressure, fullness, or mild soreness.
• Botox: Discomfort results from the small neurotoxin injections into the muscle, producing a quick pinching sensation.

Typical Sensations During and After Injection

Typical injection sensations can range from mild tenderness to swelling and bruising at the treatment site. Many individuals report that these sensations begin to diminish within a few days following the procedure. Being prepared for the expected sensations can help set realistic expectations and ease any anxiety you may have.

Techniques to Minimise Pain During Polynucleotide Procedures

To ensure a more comfortable experience during polynucleotide treatments, various techniques can be employed to minimise pain. Each of these strategies focuses on reducing discomfort and enhancing patient satisfaction throughout the procedure.

Use of Topical Anesthetics, Cooling, and Numbing Agents

Topical anesthetics play a vital role in reducing discomfort before injections. These substances can be applied directly to the skin, numbing the area and making the injection process significantly more bearable. Cooling agents may also be beneficial, as they can provide a soothing sensation and further diminish the pain associated with needle insertion.

Role of Practitioner Expertise and Injection Technique

The comfort of polynucleotide injections is closely tied to the skill of the practitioner. An experienced professional can use refined techniques to minimise discomfort, carefully monitor patient responses, and adapt their approach when needed. This expertise not only improves the treatment experience but also reduces the likelihood of side effects. 

At the Institute of Medical Physics, patients benefit from highly trained specialists who prioritise both safety and comfort, making the procedure as smooth and reassuring as possible.

Psychological Approaches: Relaxation and Breathing Techniques

Psychological techniques can greatly enhance the comfort level of patients during polynucleotide procedures. Encouraging relaxation during treatment through controlled breathing can lower anxiety levels, making the experience less intimidating. Techniques such as mindfulness and visualisation can provide distraction, helping you to focus on positive outcomes rather than discomfort.

Patient Experiences: What Do People Say About Pain?

Exploring patient experiences regarding pain during polynucleotide treatments reveals varying feedback between first-time treatment recipients and repeat patients. Understanding these perspectives can provide insight into the actual discomfort associated with the procedure.

First-Time vs Repeat Patient Feedback

People having polynucleotide injections for the first time are often more nervous about the idea of needles and potential discomfort. Most describe the sensation as mild to moderate, and the initial anxiety usually eases once the treatment begins.

Those who return for further sessions tend to feel much more at ease. With the process already familiar, their confidence grows and the experience is generally reported as more comfortable and positive.

Pain Duration and Intensity Reported

Intensity levels can fluctuate from a slight ache to more pronounced discomfort, depending on individual factors such as pain tolerance and the specific area treated. Recognising these varying reports of pain duration is important, as it assists prospective patients in setting realistic expectations for their recovery.

Coping Strategies Used by Patients

Many patients adopt various coping strategies to manage discomfort after polynucleotide treatments. Common methods include applying ice packs to the affected area, taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and utilising prescribed post-treatment care products. These coping strategies not only assist in alleviating pain duration but also enhance overall patient experiences during recovery.

Managing Pain After Under-Eye Polynucleotide Treatments

After undergoing polynucleotide treatments, effective strategies for managing pain play a crucial role in ensuring your post-treatment recovery is as smooth as possible. You might experience discomfort, swelling, or bruising, which is common. Implementing proper care techniques can significantly enhance your overall experience and results.

Tips for Post-Treatment Comfort and Recovery

To enhance comfort and encourage quicker recovery, consider the following tips:

• Apply ice packs to the treated areas to alleviate discomfort and assist with swelling reduction.
• Avoid sun exposure on the treatment sites to protect your skin and promote healing.
• Refrain from strenuous activities for a few days to aid in your recovery.
• Maintain hydration and a balanced diet to support your body's healing processes.

When to Contact Your Doctor About Pain Concerns

Monitoring your pain levels is crucial. It is advisable to contact your doctor if you experience:

• Prolonged swelling that does not subside within a few days.
• Severe discomfort not improved by over-the-counter pain relief.
• Signs of infection, such as increasing redness or warmth in the area.

Reducing Swelling and Bruising

Proper bruising care can greatly enhance your recovery. Methods to effectively reduce swelling and bruising include:

• Gently elevating the treated area to minimise swelling.
• Using arnica cream or gels designed for bruising care, if recommended by your practitioner.
• Following all post-treatment instructions given by your practitioner for optimal results.

Is Pain a Sign of Treatment Effectiveness with Polynucleotides?

It’s important to separate normal post-treatment discomfort from signs of complications. A little redness, swelling, or mild stinging after injections is common and can simply mean the treatment has been placed correctly. However, stronger or persistent pain isn’t linked to better results, it may point to an issue that needs medical attention.

Polynucleotides are well-established as both safe and effective for skin rejuvenation, and most patients tolerate them very well. Practitioners often explain what level of sensation is expected and what might require a follow-up, which helps patients feel more reassured during recovery.

Knowing the difference between typical, short-lived discomfort and warning signs allows you to approach treatment with confidence and ensures the best possible outcome.

Before You Go...

Polynucleotide injections are generally considered a well-tolerated treatment, with most patients experiencing only mild and short-lived discomfort. Factors such as age, skin type, and practitioner expertise can influence how the procedure feels, but with the right guidance, the experience is usually smooth and manageable.

At the Institute of Medical Physics, treatments are carried out by experienced specialists who focus on both safety and patient comfort, helping you feel reassured at every stage of your journey.

If you’d like to deepen your understanding, we encourage you to explore our related articles below, where you’ll find more insights into polynucleotides, their benefits, and other aspects of aesthetic treatments.

Read More

• How quickly do polynucleotides work?
• Who cannot have polynucleotides?

About Institute of Medical Physics

The Institute of Medical Physics, founded by Dr. Emanuel Paleco, is a premier medical laboratory specialising in Medical and Aesthetic Laser Science.

With a flagship clinic in King’s Cross and additional locations in North London and Essex, the Institute is at the forefront of laser science innovation. Experience advanced laser science and innovative medical treatments.

Book a consultation with Dr. Emanuel Paleco and his expert team at the Institute of Medical Physics.