PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) vs Polynucleotides
Both use biological regeneration — compare PRP therapy and polynucleotide injections.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
Full guide →Polynucleotides
Full guide →| Category | PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) | Polynucleotides |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | Stimulate natural healing and collagen using your own blood platelets. | Polynucleotides |
| Best for | Skin rejuvenation, fine lines, dull skin, acne scarring, under-eye hollows | Under-eye area (dark circles, hollows), skin rejuvenation, fine lines, acne scarring, overall skin quality |
| Treatment time | 45-60 minutes (including blood draw and preparation) | 20-40 minutes |
| Pain / Discomfort | Moderate Moderate (2-3/5) — topical anaesthetic used; involves a blood draw | Mild Low (1-2/5) — fine needle injections with topical anaesthetic |
| Downtime | Minimal (1–2 days) 24-48 hours — redness and mild swelling | None Minimal — small injection bumps and redness for 24-48 hours |
| Time to see results | 4-6 weeks for initial improvement, cumulative effect over 3-6 months | 2-4 weeks for initial improvement; progressive over 2-3 months as tissue repair occurs |
| Results last | 6-12 months with a full course | 6-12 months |
| Average cost (Ireland) | €300–€600 per session | €250–€450 per session |
| Sessions needed | 3 sessions 4-6 weeks apart, then maintenance every 6-12 months | 2-3 sessions 3-4 weeks apart, then maintenance every 6-12 months |
| Injectable | Yes | Yes |
| Good for first-timers | No | Yes |
| Areas treated | FaceScalpNeckDécolletage | FaceUnder-eyeNeckDécolletageScalp |
How they work differently
Stimulate natural healing and collagen using your own blood platelets. Polynucleotides is a medical aesthetic treatment. While both are offered by verified aesthetic practitioners, they work through different biological mechanisms and target different concerns, meaning they are often complementary rather than directly competing options.
Choose PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) if…
- Your main concerns include skin rejuvenation, fine lines, dull skin, acne scarring
Choose Polynucleotides if…
- Your main concerns include under-eye area (dark circles, hollows), skin rejuvenation, fine lines
- You want to treat specific areas like under-eye
- Minimal downtime is important — you want to return to normal activities quickly
- You prefer a more comfortable, lower-pain treatment experience
- This is your first aesthetic treatment and you want a well-established starting point
Common questions
Can I have both PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and Polynucleotides?
Many patients combine these treatments as part of a comprehensive skin programme. A qualified practitioner can advise on sequencing — some combinations can be done on the same day, while others work better spaced apart. Always discuss your full treatment plan with your practitioner before booking.
Which should I try first?
Polynucleotides tends to be more approachable for first-timers. It has a well-understood safety profile and most new patients feel comfortable starting here.
Can I switch from PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) to Polynucleotides?
Yes — there is no obligation to continue with any treatment indefinitely. If your goals or circumstances change, switching is completely possible. Discuss the timing and any necessary considerations (such as waiting for previous treatments to fully resolve) with your practitioner before making changes to your plan.