The Power of Polynucleotides: The Science Behind the “Salmon DNA” Skin Booster
by Izzy Gannon on Jan 08, 2026
In recent years, polynucleotides have become one of the most talked-about regenerative skin treatments - often referred to online as the salmon sperm skin booster, salmon facial, or salmon DNA treatment. But beyond the viral terminology, polynucleotides are a medically backed, science-led treatment designed to improve skin quality at a cellular level.
At Fixation Skincare, a leading Sheffield skin clinic, we focus on treatments that prioritise long-term skin health, regeneration, and natural results - and polynucleotides are a perfect example of this approach.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are highly purified DNA fragments, most commonly derived from salmon DNA, chosen due to their biocompatibility with human skin. When injected into the skin by a trained medical injector, polynucleotides work to stimulate tissue repair, collagen production, and cellular renewal.
Rather than filling or volumising the skin, this treatment focuses on improving skin quality, strength, and resilience from within.
This is why polynucleotides are often described as a skin booster rather than a dermal filler.
Why Is It Called the “Salmon Sperm Facial”?
The term salmon sperm facial or salmon DNA skin booster comes from the origin of the polynucleotides used in the treatment. While the name has gained popularity on social media, particularly in celebrity skincare routines, the clinical use of polynucleotides has been established in medical aesthetics for many years.
At a professional skin clinic, this treatment is performed under strict medical protocols using sterile, medical-grade products - not as a facial, but as an injectable regenerative procedure.
How Do Polynucleotides Work?
Once injected, polynucleotides:
- Stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin
- Improve skin elasticity and firmness
- Increase hydration at a cellular level
- Strengthen the skin barrier
- Support tissue repair and healing
This makes the treatment ideal for skin that is ageing, dull, dehydrated, or compromised.
Unlike traditional anti-ageing treatments that focus on immediate correction, polynucleotides work gradually, with results improving over several weeks as the skin regenerates naturally.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
Polynucleotides are particularly effective in delicate or difficult-to-treat areas, including:
- Under-eye area
- Face and neck
- Décolletage
- Hands
They are often chosen by clients who want visible rejuvenation without altering facial structure.
Who Is This Treatment Suitable For?
This treatment is ideal for clients who:
- Want natural skin rejuvenation
- Are concerned about fine lines, crepey skin, or loss of elasticity
- Have tired, dull, or dehydrated skin
- Prefer regenerative treatments over volumising injectables
At our Sheffield skin clinic, all polynucleotide treatments are carried out by experienced medical injectors following a full consultation and skin assessment.
Results and Treatment Plan
Some improvement in hydration and skin texture may be visible after the first treatment, but the most noticeable results typically develop over 4–8 weeks as collagen production increases.
For optimal results, a course of treatments is often recommended, depending on your skin condition and goals.
Results are subtle, progressive, and designed to enhance skin quality rather than dramatically change appearance.
Why Choose a Medical Skin Clinic for Polynucleotides?
Because polynucleotides are an injectable treatment, it’s essential they are administered by a qualified medical injector within a regulated skin clinic environment.
At Fixation Skincare, we combine advanced skin technology with medical-led expertise to ensure every treatment is safe, bespoke, and results-driven.
Whether you know them as polynucleotides, salmon DNA skin boosters, or the salmon sperm facial, this treatment represents a powerful shift toward regenerative aesthetics - focusing on skin health, longevity, and natural rejuvenation.
If you’re looking for advanced skin treatments in Sheffield and want to explore whether polynucleotides are right for you, a professional consultation is always the first step.