# Polynucleotides for Under Eyes: What the Studies Show

> Polynucleotide injections, often called salmon DNA treatments, are used for crepey under-eye skin and fine lines. What trials found, how they compare with hyaluronic acid, sessions, side effects and US status.

Canonical: https://antiagingcare.org/blog/polynucleotides-for-under-eyes
HTML version: https://antiagingcare.org/blog/polynucleotides-for-under-eyes
Author: Anti Aging Care Editorial Team
Published: 2026-10-24
Category: Skincare

Polynucleotide injections are made from purified DNA fragments, usually from salmon, and are used to improve thin, crepey skin and fine lines under the eyes. The short answer: small studies show improvement in skin quality and patient satisfaction, but evidence is limited, they don't replace volume like filler, and they aren't among the dermal filler materials the FDA has approved.

## What polynucleotides are

Polynucleotides (PN) are highly purified DNA fragments, typically derived from salmon sperm DNA, with reported tissue-repair and anti-inflammatory effects ([Ziade et al., *J Cosmet Dermatol*, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41689167/)). A related ingredient, PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), is also used in injectables and skincare.

## What the studies show

| Study | Design | Findings |
|---|---|---|
| Lee et al., 2022 | 27 people, randomized split-face; PN on one side, non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid on the other; 3 sessions 2 weeks apart | Overall improvement similar on both sides; PN side showed greater gains in elasticity, hydration, roughness and pore volume; no serious side effects ([Lee et al., *J Dermatolog Treat*, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32248707/)) |
| Ziade et al., 2026 | 42 patients, observational, intradermal PN | Significant improvement in lower eyelid and crow's feet scores at 1, 3 and 6 months; best at 3 months after two sessions; minimal side effects ([Ziade et al., *J Cosmet Dermatol*, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41689167/)) |
| Beer et al., 2026 | Review of 50 under-eye studies | Microneedling and polynucleotides target texture and fine lines ([Beer et al., *Dermatol Surg*, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41615388/)) |

The authors of the 2026 study called for controlled trials to confirm the results.

## Which under-eye problems they fit

| Problem | Polynucleotides a good fit? | Better-studied options |
|---|---|---|
| Crepey, thin skin and fine lines | Possibly | Retinoids, microneedling, lasers |
| Hollowing (tear trough) | Not as a volume filler | Hyaluronic acid filler ([Michelle et al., *Dermatol Surg*, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32740208/)) |
| Fat bags | No | Blepharoplasty |
| Brown pigment | Not well studied | Topicals, peels |

## US regulatory status

The FDA's dermal filler page lists the approved filler materials as hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid and PMMA ([FDA: dermal fillers](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/aesthetic-cosmetic-devices/fda-approved-dermal-fillers)). Polynucleotides aren't on that list. Ask your provider exactly which product they use and its regulatory status where you live.

## What treatment involves

- **Sessions:** studies used two to three sessions, two or more weeks apart ([Lee et al., *J Dermatolog Treat*, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32248707/); [Ziade et al., *J Cosmet Dermatol*, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41689167/)).
- **Injection:** small amounts placed into the skin with a fine needle or cannula.
- **Results:** gradual; in the 2026 study, the biggest improvements were at three months.

## Side effects

Reported side effects were minimal in the studies above. As with any under-eye injection, expect possible swelling, bruising and small bumps. Tell your provider about fish allergies, since products are typically salmon-derived; ask whether this matters for the product you're offered.

## Choosing a provider

- Choose a licensed medical professional experienced with under-eye anatomy.
- Ask what the product is, where it's made and its approval status.
- Ask what results to expect for your specific concern.

## At-home care alongside treatment

1. Daily sunscreen around the eyes ([AAD: sunscreen FAQs](https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/sunscreen-faqs)).
2. A gentle retinoid eye product for crepey skin.
3. Moisturizer to support the barrier.

## Frequently asked questions

**Are polynucleotides the same as a salmon sperm facial?** "Salmon sperm facial" is a popular name for polynucleotide or PDRN treatments.

**Do polynucleotides fill hollows?** They aren't designed as volume fillers. Hyaluronic acid filler is better studied for hollowing.

**How long do results last?** The 2026 study followed patients for six months; longer data is limited.

_This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Talk to a board-certified dermatologist about your situation._

## Sources

- Lee YJ et al. Comparison of the effects of polynucleotide and hyaluronic acid fillers on periocular rejuvenation: a randomized, double-blind, split-face trial. *J Dermatolog Treat*. 2022. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32248707/)
- Ziade G et al. Prospective observational study of polynucleotide injections for periorbital rhytides. *J Cosmet Dermatol*. 2026. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41689167/)
- Beer J et al. What's new with under eye treatment: a multispecialty systematic review. *Dermatol Surg*. 2026. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41615388/)
- Michelle L et al. Treatments of periorbital hyperpigmentation: a systematic review. *Dermatol Surg*. 2021. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32740208/)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. [Dermal fillers approved by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/aesthetic-cosmetic-devices/fda-approved-dermal-fillers)
- American Academy of Dermatology. [Sunscreen FAQs](https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/sunscreen-faqs)