Nucleofill vs Rejuran: Polynucleotide Treatments Compared
Nucleofill, Rejuran and Plinest are all injectable polynucleotides. Dr Sin Yong, Medical Director of IN Eternity Clinic, explains what they have in common, where they differ and what the evidence supports.
Treatment page: Rejuran in Singapore.
WhatsApp to Enquire →Key facts ↓Nucleofill, Rejuran and Plinest are injectable polynucleotide treatments made from purified fish DNA fragments. They are placed into the skin to support repair, hydration and elasticity, and they do not add volume like a filler. The products differ in manufacturer, concentration, thickness and the areas each version is designed for. Published studies are mostly small and report improvements in skin texture and elasticity. A course is usually two to four sessions. Results vary, and only products registered in Singapore may be used.
- One family: polynucleotides are chains of purified DNA fragments used in aesthetic medicine to improve skin quality; an expert consensus describes their use and injection technique [1].
- Evidence is growing but small: in a randomised study, polynucleotide injections improved moderate to severe acne scars more than placebo [2].
- Not a filler: polynucleotides do not lift or fill folds; they are aimed at texture, fine lines and elasticity.
- Product differences are practical: concentration and thickness decide which area a version suits, such as the under-eye, face or neck.
What polynucleotide injections do
Polynucleotides are purified fragments of DNA, usually derived from salmon or trout. Injected into the dermis, they bind water and are thought to support the skin's own repair processes and fibroblast activity [1]. The effect is on skin quality: hydration, fine lines, elasticity and the look of scars or enlarged pores.
You may also see the terms PN and PDRN. See polynucleotide skin boosters and PDRN explained.
How the products compare
| Rejuran | Nucleofill | Plinest | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Made in | South Korea | Italy | Italy |
| Ingredient | Polynucleotide | Polynucleotide | Polynucleotide (PN-HPT) |
| Range | Versions for face, under-eye and scars | Versions of different strength for face, eyes and body | Versions for face, eyes and other areas |
| Aim | Skin repair, texture, fine lines | Skin quality and firmness | Skin quality and elasticity |
| Typical course | Three to four sessions, about four weeks apart | Two to four sessions, a few weeks apart | Three to four sessions, two to three weeks apart |
| After treatment | Small bumps for one to two days; possible bruising | Small bumps or swelling for a day or two | Small bumps for one to two days |
Courses and intervals follow each manufacturer's guidance and are adjusted to the person. Before any treatment, ask whether the product is registered with the Health Sciences Authority. See HSA registration explained.
What the studies show
Studies of polynucleotides are mostly small. They report improvements in skin elasticity, hydration and texture, and a randomised study found better acne scar scores than placebo [2]. There are few direct comparisons between brands, so no product can be said to work better than another on current evidence.
Polynucleotides at IN Eternity Clinic
Dr Sin Yong uses Rejuran and Plinest, chosen by area and skin condition. Nucleofill is explained here for comparison. See also Plinest vs Rejuran and skin boosters in Singapore. Results vary between people.
Who they suit, and who should wait
- They suit dull, dehydrated or finely lined skin, enlarged pores and some acne scarring.
- They are not suitable in pregnancy or breastfeeding, with active skin infection, or with a fish allergy.
- They do not replace filler for volume loss, or lifting treatments for sagging.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nucleofill?
Nucleofill is an Italian range of injectable polynucleotides, used to improve skin quality and firmness. It belongs to the same family of treatments as Rejuran and Plinest.
Is Nucleofill the same as Rejuran?
They are different products from different manufacturers, but both are polynucleotide injections aimed at skin quality. They differ in concentration, thickness and the areas each version is designed for.
Which is better, Nucleofill or Rejuran?
There are few direct comparisons, so neither can be said to work better on current evidence. The choice depends on the area treated, skin condition and which products are registered and available.
How many sessions of polynucleotide treatment are needed?
A course is usually two to four sessions a few weeks apart, with maintenance every six to twelve months. The plan is adjusted to your skin.
Do polynucleotide injections hurt, and is there downtime?
Numbing cream is used. Small raised bumps at the injection points are common for one to two days, and bruising can occur.
Are polynucleotides the same as fillers?
No. Fillers add volume and shape. Polynucleotides improve skin quality and do not lift or fill folds.
Book an assessment
IN Eternity Clinic, 9 Scotts Road, #12-01 Pacific Plaza, Singapore 228210. By appointment with Medical Director Dr Sin Yong. Monday to Saturday, 11am to 8pm. WhatsApp or call +65 8815 3008. At IN Eternity Clinic a consultation fee applies, and it is waived if you go ahead with any medical treatment; the fee is S
International KOL — CLASSYS · HIRONIC · DEKA · ALMA · FOTONA · LUTRONIC
References
- Cavallini M, Bartoletti E, Maioli L, et al. Consensus report on the use of PN-HPT (polynucleotides highly purified technology) in aesthetic medicine. J Cosmet Dermatol 2021;20(3):922-928. PubMed
- Araco A, Araco F. Preliminary prospective and randomized study of highly purified polynucleotide vs placebo in treatment of moderate to severe acne scars. Aesthet Surg J 2021;41(7):NP866-NP874. PubMed
Figures taken from the published papers and abstracts. Results vary between people; suitability is decided at an in-person consultation.