Nucleotide‐Based Skin Boosters in Aesthetic Dermatology: A Scoping Review of Their Potential Role
Shreeya Nayak, V. Guhaneshram, Rachel Sharon Dias, Neha Akhoon, Abdul Mannan Faruk Ahmed, Sohil Khan, Mohammed Salim Karattuthodi, Aseem SharmaABSTRACT
Background
Polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN) and polynucleotides (PN), the two skin boosters, have become increasingly popular in aesthetic dermatology recent years due to their extraordinary rejuvenating properties and biocompatibility. Their ability to enhance skin hydration, elasticity, and texture, as well as to improve overall skin parameters, has led to a strong clinical interest. However, the safety and efficacy of PDRN and PN are not well endorsed by the available data, despite their increasing use in the clinical setting.
Objective
This scoping review aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of PDRN and PN boosters by systematically charting available data on their use to improve facial skin quality and clinical outcomes.
Methods
The review followed the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were systematically searched and filtered to assess the safety and efficacy of PDRN and PN boosters in clinical settings. A total of six articles were finalised and included.
Results
Six studies were included. The available evidence highlighted PN or PN‐HPT prevalence while one study that used PDRN skin booster for facial hyperpigmentation. PN/PN‐HPT interventions showcased improvements in selected skin quality parameters PN can improve skin parameters, including hydration, elasticity, firmness, texture, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and wrinkles. PDRN improved the status in hyperpigmentation through anti‐melanogenesis activity. Various administration methods including intradermal injections, microneedling, and topical applications, demonstrated consistent, statistically significant improvement in the patients. Positive patient satisfaction scores through questionnaires and scales were reported. The safety profile was favourable, with only mild, transient side effects such as erythema, oedema, and minor injection‐site pain were identified in the studies. No serious adverse events were noted, and the treatments were well tolerated alone or in combination.
Conclusion
PN skin boosters enhances various skin quality parameters while being well‐tolerated with no serious side effects. The clinical relevance of PDRN skin boosters remain limited in enhancing the aesthetic outcomes of the skin. Despite these promising outcomes, there is a need to establish their long‐term safety and efficacy through studies involving larger populations and standardized treatment protocols to generate stronger evidence for patients’ benefit.