Nucleofill (Dna Sparkle)

Nucleofill is an injectable skin booster containing long-chain polynucleotides derived from salmon DNA, used to support skin quality. It adds no volume; it aims to help skin that has lost hydration and elasticity, or looks thin or tired, appear more radiant. It is used on the face, neck, décolleté and hands, and usually 3–4 sessions are planned at set intervals.

What is Nucleofill and how does it work?

Nucleofill is an absorbable gel injected into the skin that contains long-chain molecules derived from DNA, called polynucleotides.

Polynucleotides bind water, which helps hydrate the skin. They are also intended to have a biostimulating effect that supports the skin's own renewal processes. The effect develops slowly and gradually; the aim is not to fill the skin but to improve its quality. PDRN, used in salmon DNA treatments, comes from the same source, while the polynucleotide chains in Nucleofill are longer. You can read about the difference between the two on our salmon DNA page. In Turkey the treatment is also known as "DNA Işıltısı" (DNA glow).

Which areas is Nucleofill used on, and who is it for?

Nucleofill is most often used on the face, neck, décolleté and the backs of the hands in women and men whose skin quality has declined.

• Dehydration and dullness: dry, tired-looking skin that has lost its glow
• Fine lines: fine lines starting to show on the face and neck
• Thin skin and loss of elasticity: skin that has thinned with age or sun damage
• Backs of the hands: thin, crêpey-looking skin on the hands

For the hands, this treatment is often planned together with other methods; you can find the options in our hand rejuvenation article. It may not be enough on its own for marked sagging or deep wrinkles.

How is it done, and does it hurt?

Nucleofill is given as small injections into the skin with very fine needles, after a numbing cream has been applied if needed.

First your skin is examined and the treatment areas are chosen. The procedure is quick, and you feel brief pricks during the injections. The small bumps that form at the injection points usually settle within a few hours. You can return to your normal day afterwards; on the first day it is advisable to avoid make-up, strenuous exercise, the sauna and massaging the area. At our clinic in Etiler, the doctor decides on treatment after assessing your skin and your expectations.

How many Nucleofill sessions are needed, and how long does it last?

Most people have 3–4 sessions at set intervals, and the effect usually lasts around 6 months on average.

The number of sessions and the interval between them depend on your skin, age and goals; for some people treatment is spread over a longer period. Change appears gradually and can become more noticeable as the sessions progress. The effect is not permanent, and maintenance sessions at regular intervals may be recommended to keep the result. How long it lasts depends on sun exposure, smoking, skincare and age, and varies from person to person.

How does Nucleofill differ from Profhilo and fillers?

Nucleofill contains polynucleotides and adds no volume; Profhilo is a hyaluronic acid skin booster, and fillers are products used to add volume.

• Nucleofill: supports skin quality and hydration with polynucleotides; it can be a good fit for thin, tired-looking skin.
• Profhilo: supports hydration and elasticity with highly concentrated hyaluronic acid.
• Fillers: target volume loss and deep lines; the effect is visible as soon as they are injected.
• Mesotherapy: delivers active ingredients such as vitamins, amino acids and hyaluronic acid into the skin through micro-injections.

None of these methods is better than the others across the board; the choice depends on your skin and goals, and they can be combined when appropriate.

Does Nucleofill have side effects?

Nucleofill's side effects are mostly mild and temporary; redness, swelling, small bumps and bruising at the injection points are the most common.

• Common and temporary: redness, mild swelling, tenderness and bruises that fade within a few days
• Less common: small firm spots in the treated area that can be felt for a few days
• Rare but important: infection and allergic reactions; the risk of allergy is higher in people with a fish or salmon allergy

For this reason the treatment should only be given after a medical assessment and in suitable conditions.

Who should not have it, and when should you see a doctor?

Nucleofill is not used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or in people with a fish or salmon allergy.

In the following situations treatment is postponed or assessed separately by a doctor:

• Active infection, a cold sore, an acne flare-up or an open wound in the area
• Autoimmune conditions or treatment that suppresses the immune system
• A bleeding disorder or use of blood thinners
• Recent laser, peeling or filler treatment in the same area

If you notice increasing pain, redness, warmth, discharge or a fever after treatment, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or lips, itching or shortness of breath, contact your doctor without delay.

Frequently asked questions

What is Nucleofill?

It is an injectable skin booster gel containing long-chain polynucleotides derived from salmon DNA. It adds no volume; it aims to support the skin's hydration and elasticity so that it looks more radiant.

How many Nucleofill sessions are needed?

Most people have 3–4 sessions at set intervals, and treatment can be spread over a longer period depending on the skin's condition. The exact number and interval are decided at your consultation and vary from person to person.

How long does Nucleofill last?

The effect is not permanent; for most people it lasts around 6 months on average and can be extended with regular maintenance sessions. How long it lasts depends on age, skin type, sun exposure and lifestyle.

Does Nucleofill add volume?

No. Nucleofill is not a filler and does not add volume to the face. For volume loss or deep lines, other methods such as fillers are considered.

Can people with a fish allergy have Nucleofill?

Because it is derived from salmon DNA, it is not used in people with a fish or salmon allergy. Always mention any known allergies at your consultation.

This content is for information only and does not replace a medical examination. To find out which skin booster suits your skin, get in touch with us.