Op. Dr. Murat AlpaySpecialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology 0505 351 77 88
Medical Aesthetics

Polynucleotide (“Salmon DNA”) Treatment in Antalya

The name "salmon DNA" describes where the substance used comes from: a DNA compound obtained from salmon that closely resembles human DNA. Its medical name is polynucleotide. In the sources it appears not as a separate procedure but as a component of facial mesotherapy.

In short: In the procedure popularly called "salmon DNA", a DNA compound (polynucleotide) obtained from salmon and resembling human DNA is given with fine needles into the middle layer of the skin. In the sources this compound appears as part of facial mesotherapy mixtures aimed at repairing skin worn by the sun and smoking. It does not add volume and is not a filler. The session schedule is the same as for mesotherapy; the level of evidence, however, is limited.

What is it and where does it come from?

In the source this substance is described as a long-chain DNA compound obtained from the reproductive cells of salmon (salmon milt) that closely resembles human DNA. In practice it is not used on its own but within mixtures prepared together with substances such as local anaesthetic and B vitamins.

In short: this is not a filler and it does not give volume by taking up space. Its aim is to support the repair of worn skin tissue.

How is it thought to work?

According to the source, in skin damaged by sunlight, smoking and harmful molecules that wear out cells (free radicals), this compound has a renewing effect on the protein structure of the skin, the integrity of its cells and its supporting tissue.

The source does not describe a more detailed mechanism of action. This page likewise does not describe any effect that the source does not state.

Where is it used?

  • Face: The source states that it is used in facial mesotherapy mixtures, together with hyaluronic acid and other substances, on facial skin that is sun-damaged, has lost its elasticity and has aged.
  • Under the eyes, neck, scalp and acne scars: The source does not describe a use specific to these areas. In the source these areas are covered under general mesotherapy and other methods.

How is the procedure done? How many sessions are needed?

  • Technique: With very fine mesotherapy needles, small amounts are injected point by point into the middle layer of the skin (the dermis).
  • Session schedule: The general schedule of facial mesotherapy is followed — for example 3–4 sessions every 15 days, or one session a week in the first month, every two weeks in the second month and once a month in the following months.
  • Top-up: The source recommends a repeat session every 2–3 or 3–4 months.
  • Time to results: Because cell renewal and collagen production in the skin take 3–6 months, the noticeable effect settles within this period. An immediately visible change is not to be expected.
  • How long it lasts: The source gives no clear figure for how long the substance stays in the tissue.

For the general features of mesotherapy, see the Mesotherapy page.

How it differs from filler, mesotherapy and biostimulators

  • Hyaluronic acid filler: By holding water, it gives volume and fullness the moment it is injected, and it can be dissolved with an enzyme if necessary. "Salmon DNA", by contrast, is not a volume-giving substance. (see Dermal Filler)
  • Mesotherapy: It is not a separate procedure; in the source it appears as a repairing component within facial mesotherapy mixtures.
  • Biostimulators: They stimulate collagen production by creating a controlled reaction in the tissue and lead to long-lasting thickening of the tissue. "Salmon DNA" does not create this kind of reaction or volume. (see Biostimulators (Collagen-Stimulating Injections))

Side effects

The source has no separate table of side effects specific to this substance. In the facial mesotherapy treatments it is part of, the following temporary effects may occur:

  • Redness and mild swelling
  • Pinpoint bleeding and a stinging feeling at the needle sites
  • Bruising

These effects usually pass on their own. If increasing pain, hardness or a change in colour is noticed, you should see the doctor.

Who should not have it?

  • During pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • If there is an active infection, an open wound, an active cold sore or an inflammatory skin disease in the treatment area
  • People with a known allergy to substances in the mixture (for example local anaesthetic or vitamins)
  • People with a bleeding disorder or who take blood thinners
  • People with an active autoimmune disease or who are receiving treatment that suppresses the immune system
  • People who tend to form thick, raised scars (keloids)
  • People with unrealistic expectations

Any history of allergy is asked about separately before the procedure.

After the procedure

  • For the first 24 hours, do not let water get on the treated area, do not wear make-up and do not rub it
  • Avoid hot baths, steam baths, saunas and strenuous exercise for the first few days
  • If needed, apply cold intermittently on the first day
  • Protect yourself from the sun and use a high-protection sunscreen

Limits of the evidence: The source contains no grading of the level of evidence for this treatment (for example comparative, controlled studies). The substance is described as a component used in facial mesotherapy to support tissue repair. It is important to keep expectations within this framework.

With any surgical procedure, results vary from person to person. You are advised to discuss the procedure with your doctor in detail beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is "salmon DNA" really obtained from salmon?

According to the source, yes: the substance is a long-chain DNA compound obtained from the reproductive cells of salmon (salmon milt) that closely resembles human DNA. Its medical name is polynucleotide.

Does it give volume like a filler?

No. It is not a space-filling substance; its aim is to support the repair of worn skin tissue. For volume loss, other methods are considered.

How many sessions are done?

The general schedule of facial mesotherapy is followed: for example 3–4 sessions every 15 days, then a top-up session every 2–4 months. The exact plan is set at the examination according to the skin.

When can the result be seen, and how long does it last?

Because cell renewal in the skin takes 3–6 months, the noticeable effect settles within this period. The source gives no clear figure for how long the substance stays in the tissue.

Can it be used under the eyes?

The source does not describe a use of this substance specific to the under-eye area. For under-eye concerns, which method is suitable is decided at the examination.

Does it have side effects?

The source has no table of side effects specific to the substance. In the mesotherapy treatments it is part of, temporary redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, a stinging feeling and bruising may occur.

Sources

  1. Dermocosmetic Applications from A to Z (Turkish-language source) — the definition of the salmon-derived DNA compound, where it is obtained from, its place in facial mesotherapy mixtures, technique and session schedule (aesthetics source library, query of 2026-11-11).
  2. Skin Wrinkles, Skin Pigmentation and Skin Rejuvenation; Filler Applications — course materials from a training programme in aesthetic and cosmetic applications. Comparison with fillers and biostimulators, who should not have it.
  3. Patient Records, History, Consent and Archiving; Complication Management — course materials from the same programme. Temporary side effects and aftercare recommendations.

The information on this page is based on the national and international guidelines listed above. The page is reviewed whenever those guidelines are updated.

Practice and Contact Details

The information on this page is general. Please speak to your doctor about your own situation.

  • DoctorOp. Dr. Murat Alpay — Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
  • AddressOp. Dr. Murat Alpay Practice, Tekelioğlu Cd. No:51 B Kat:2, Filo Apt., 07160 Muratpaşa / Antalya
  • Telephone0505 351 77 88
  • HoursMonday – Saturday 09:00 – 18:00 · Closed on Sunday

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