"Skin boosters" is an umbrella term, and the two treatments that come up most often in consultation are Profhilo and polynucleotides. They are often described as interchangeable. They are not — they work differently and suit different problems.
What Profhilo does
Profhilo is a very pure, thermally stabilised hyaluronic acid with an unusually high concentration. Rather than filling or adding volume, it spreads beneath the skin and acts as a hydrating scaffold. It also appears to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin over the following weeks.
Best for: crepey, dehydrated or lax skin on the face, neck, décolletage and hands. It is particularly good where the problem is tissue quality rather than lost volume.
Protocol: usually two sessions, four weeks apart, then maintenance every six months or so.
Downtime: minimal. You will have small bumps at the injection points for a few hours — these are the product sitting before it spreads — and possibly minor bruising.
What polynucleotides do
Polynucleotides are purified DNA fragments, typically derived from salmon or trout, which act on the fibroblast cells responsible for producing collagen. Their strength is repair and regeneration rather than hydration.
Best for: the under-eye area, where the skin is thin and filler is often unsuitable; acne scarring; and overall skin quality where inflammation or sun damage is a factor.
Protocol: for REJURAN®, an initial course of around three sessions, approximately four weeks apart, may be recommended; for Plinest, the number of sessions is agreed at your assessment.
Downtime: similar to Profhilo — small bumps for several hours, possible bruising.
The key differences at a glance
- Mechanism: Profhilo hydrates and scaffolds; polynucleotides stimulate cellular repair.
- Star area: Profhilo excels on the neck and lower face; polynucleotides excel under the eyes.
- Sessions: Profhilo is usually two; for polynucleotides the number is set at assessment (for REJURAN®, an initial course of around three may be recommended).
- Results feel: Profhilo gives a "plump and hydrated" quality; polynucleotides give improved tone, texture and darkness under the eyes.
Can you have both?
Yes, and this is common. A typical plan might use polynucleotides for the under-eye area and Profhilo for the lower face and neck, since they address different problems in different places. Your clinician will advise on sequencing.
What neither will do
Skin boosters do not replace lost volume and will not lift a sagging jawline. If your main concern is volume loss or structural change, dermal filler or a biostimulator is usually the more appropriate conversation.
Next steps
At My Timeless in the City of London, treatment choice is made after assessing your skin in person rather than from a product menu. You can compare current prices or book a consultation to discuss which approach suits your skin.
Related guides
- Anti-Wrinkle Injections vs Dermal Fillers: What's the Difference?
- Lip Filler in London: What to Expect, How Long It Lasts and What It Costs
- Jaw Slimming and Teeth Grinding: A Guide to Masseter Treatment
- Full treatment price list
- Book an online consultation with Dr Vicky Bu
This article is provided for general information only and is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation. A qualified clinician will assess your suitability, medical history and treatment options before any treatment is recommended.
Related guide: Under-Eye Treatments in London 2026: Tear Trough Filler vs Polynucleotides
