Plureal and skin firmness: what research on PN injection reveals and its limitations

Plureal's active ingredient, PN (polynucleotide) injection, has been reported to improve skin firmness and hydration[1][2]. However, most studies are small-scale and of low to moderate quality[1]. In trials comparing PN injection to hyaluronic acid injection, no difference was found in appearance improvement scores[3].

How does PN injection change the skin?

PN injection is most commonly reported to improve firmness, hydration, and skin quality. PN is thought to work by increasing cells that produce skin fibers and strengthening the skin's foundation[1].

In a 143-person trial, skin elasticity and hydration improved, and both patients and doctors reported high satisfaction[2]. Research also shows that in people in their 30s, pores and skin thickness improved; in those in their 40s, skin tone, wrinkles, and sagging improved[2].

How does PN injection compare to hyaluronic acid injection?

Appearance improvement was comparable to hyaluronic acid injection. In a 27-person trial around the eyes, where PN was injected into one side and hyaluronic acid into the other, three times at two-week intervals, no difference was found in appearance improvement scores[3].

Skin elasticity and hydration improvements decreased over time on both sides[3]. However, the improvement rate was higher on the PN side, and texture and pores also improved more on the PN side[3].

Can PN injection be used under the eyes?

Some research has studied use under the eyes, but the sample sizes are still very small. In a study of 5 women who received PN injection under the eyes, hollow appearance, smoothness, and skin tone unevenness improved mildly to moderately[4].

No side effects appeared by 3 months[4]. However, because the sample size is small and the follow-up period is short, the authors note that no firm conclusions can be drawn[4].

What are the limitations of the research?

PN injection research is still predominantly small-scale. A systematic review of the research found variability in study quality, with no studies receiving a perfect rating[5].

The PN product used in studies may not be the same as Plureal. It has been noted that PN's effectiveness is heavily influenced by ingredient quality and application method[6].

What side effects can occur?

Research reviews have emphasized that PN injection did not produce serious complications[5]. PN is considered a component that integrates easily with the body and breaks down readily[6].

Nevertheless, since injection is involved, individual variation in skin reaction after treatment is possible. It is reassuring to ask in advance how much redness or swelling to expect.

What should I confirm before receiving treatment?

During consultation, ask about the following points:

Concerns: does the primary concern involve hydration, texture, and pores, or deeper wrinkles and volume loss?[1][3]

Number of treatments: how many sessions and at what intervals?[2]

Product: how does the product differ from the one used in research?[6]

Other treatments: how does it compare to hyaluronic acid injection?[3]

Whether PN injection is suitable for your skin cannot be decided from this article alone. During your consultation, have your specific concerns and skin condition examined, confirm the expected number of treatments needed, and clarify how it differs from other treatments.