Polynucleotides side effects

• Small raised bumps at each injection point, usually settling within hours to a day.
• Redness in the treated area for a few hours to a couple of days.
• Swelling, most noticeable around the eyes, for one to three days.
• Bruising, which may last five to ten days.
• Tenderness or a mild aching sensation for a day or two.
• Temporary itching or tightness as the area settles.

These are expected consequences of multiple small injections rather than signs that something has gone wrong. Aftercare that limits heat, exercise and pressure in the first day or two tends to reduce them — see aftercare.

• Swelling that lasts beyond a few days, particularly under the eyes.
• Small lumps or nodules that persist for weeks, sometimes from product placed too superficially.
• Visible or palpable product in very thin skin.
• Temporary darkening of the skin at injection points, more likely in richer skin tones.
• Infection at an injection site, which is uncommon with sterile technique but possible.
• Allergic reaction. Polynucleotides are fish-derived, so they are generally avoided in people with a known fish or seafood allergy.
• Very rarely, injury to a blood vessel. Vascular occlusion is principally a risk of higher-volume filler injection, but no injection is entirely without it.

Reactivation of cold sores can occur if you are prone to them and the area around the mouth is treated; mention this before treatment.

Seek urgent medical attention — NHS 111, or 999 if severe — for any of the following:

• Skin that turns white, grey, blotchy or mottled after treatment.
• Severe pain, or pain that keeps increasing rather than easing.
• Any change in vision, including blurring or loss of sight.
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or throat, or widespread hives — possible severe allergic reaction.
• Spreading redness with heat, discharge or fever — possible infection.

Also contact your practitioner, without the same urgency, if swelling is worsening after 48 hours or a lump persists beyond two to three weeks.

Practitioners usually avoid or postpone treatment where there is:

• A known allergy to fish, seafood or any product ingredient.
• Active infection, acne breakout or inflamed skin in the treatment area.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding, as a precaution given the absence of data.
• An active autoimmune or inflammatory condition, pending medical advice.
• A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring.
• Current cancer treatment, without advice from the treating team.
• Unrealistic expectations about what the treatment can achieve.

Cosmetic injectables must not be given to under-18s for cosmetic purposes under UK law covering fillers and botulinum toxin.

• Choose a practitioner on a recognised register with appropriate training and indemnity insurance — see who can administer.
• Insist on a proper consultation and medical history, and disclose all allergies and medication.
• Ask to see the product packaging, and check it is sealed and in date.
• Avoid treatment in non-clinical settings such as homes, salons or parties.
• Follow the aftercare advice, particularly in the first 48 hours.
• Make sure you know how to reach your practitioner urgently, including out of hours.

Problems with a medical device or treatment in the UK can be reported to the MHRA through its Yellow Card scheme.