Ameela Polynucleotides: A Complete Guide

What Polynucleotides Are

Polynucleotides are chains of nucleotides — the building blocks of DNA. Injectable polynucleotide products are produced by purifying and fragmenting DNA from a biological source (trout gonad tissue in the case of Ameela), chosen because it is highly biocompatible with human tissue and carries a very low immunogenic profile. The purified fragments have no genetic function when injected; they act as regenerative signalling molecules.

Once injected into the skin, polynucleotides activate fibroblasts (the cells responsible for producing collagen, elastin and extracellular matrix), improve local microcirculation, increase skin hydration and have a documented antioxidant effect. The overall result is an improvement in skin quality: texture, tone, hydration, elasticity and radiance.

Polynucleotides do not add volume in the way fillers do, and they do not restrict muscle movement in the way anti-wrinkle injections do. They are a skin-quality treatment and sit in a different clinical category. They are frequently combined with other treatments as part of a broader plan.

Ameela vs Plinest vs Profhilo

Ameela vs Plinest

Ameela and Plinest are the two main polynucleotide products used in the UK. They share the same mechanism of action and produce very similar clinical outcomes. Differences lie in molecular weight profile, viscosity and packaging, which can make one or the other a better technical fit for a particular area or technique. For most patients either is appropriate; the treating clinician will choose based on indication. See our dedicated Ameela vs Plinest comparison for detail.

Ameela vs Profhilo

Profhilo is a hyaluronic-acid-based bio-remodeller. It works primarily by delivering high concentrations of HA that hydrate and subtly lift the skin, with some collagen and elastin stimulation as a secondary effect. Ameela (polynucleotide) works more directly on fibroblast regeneration and tissue repair. Profhilo is often stronger for immediate radiance and mild laxity; Ameela is often stronger for thin skin, crepiness, under-eye concerns and post-inflammatory texture. The two treatments are complementary rather than alternatives, and many patients benefit from both at different stages of a plan.

Ameela vs dermal fillers

Dermal fillers add volume and reshape contours; Ameela improves skin quality. They are fundamentally different treatments with different goals, and they work well together. Ameela is not a substitute for a well-placed filler when volume restoration is the aim.

Ameela FAQs

What is Ameela?

Ameela is a polynucleotide injectable made from highly purified DNA fragments derived from trout gonads, a tissue source chosen for its very low immunogenicity and high compatibility with human tissue. Ameela stimulates fibroblast activity, improves skin hydration and elasticity, and supports tissue regeneration. It is the current brand name for the product that was previously marketed as Nucleadyn — the formulation is the same, the brand has been consolidated.

Is Ameela the same as Nucleadyn?

Yes. Nucleadyn was discontinued and rebranded to Ameela in 2024. The active polynucleotide formulation is the same; only the product name and packaging have changed. Patients who had Nucleadyn previously can continue with the same treatment under the Ameela name.

How does Ameela differ from Plinest?

Both Ameela and Plinest are polynucleotide injectables, share the same mechanism of action, and produce similar clinical outcomes. Ameela (Vivacy) and Plinest (Mastelli) differ in source of starting material, molecular-weight profile and viscosity, which can make one more suitable than the other for particular indications or injection techniques. In practice the choice is made by the treating clinician based on indication and patient factors.

What does Ameela treat?

Ameela is used for skin regeneration and quality improvement. Common indications include under-eye dark circles and crepiness, fine lines, dehydrated skin, post-acne textural irregularity, early skin laxity, and skin quality on the neck and décolletage. It is also used as an adjunct alongside other regenerative or contouring treatments to optimise skin quality.

How many Ameela sessions do I need?

A typical Ameela course is 2–3 sessions spaced 3–4 weeks apart. Patients with more advanced concerns may benefit from 4 sessions. Maintenance is typically one session every 6–9 months to sustain the result.

How long do Ameela results last?

Improvements build over 4–8 weeks after each session, with peak benefit around 2–3 months after completing a course. Results typically last 6–9 months. Because polynucleotides act on the skin's own regenerative machinery, the effect extends beyond the physical presence of the product.

Is Ameela safe during pregnancy?

No. Ameela is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is also not suitable for patients with active skin infection in the treatment area, autoimmune flare, or known hypersensitivity to any component. Suitability is confirmed at consultation.

Does Ameela hurt?

Topical anaesthetic is applied before injection. Most patients describe the sensation as mild pinches with some pressure. Transient stinging during injection is normal and brief. Small bumps and mild bruising at injection points are common and settle within 24–48 hours.

How much does Ameela cost?

At Berkshire Aesthetics, Ameela is priced from £425 per session. A typical course of 2–3 sessions ranges from £850 to £1,275, depending on how many areas are treated. Pricing is confirmed at consultation.

Can Ameela be combined with Profhilo, fillers or Botox?

Yes. Ameela is commonly combined with Profhilo (for hydration), dermal fillers (for targeted volume), and anti-wrinkle injections (for dynamic lines) as part of a staged treatment plan. Timing and sequencing matter — Ameela is usually delivered as its own course and then layered with other treatments. Your clinician will plan the order.