Charli XCX's polynucleotide discussion is about a skin-quality treatment, not an acne therapy. Polynucleotides are purified DNA fragments, usually from salmon or fish, injected to support repair, calm inflammation and build collagen for smoother, brighter skin. Charli told fans her glow came from polynucleotide injections, calling them a deep vitamin and saying traditional fillers are now out. The comment drew wide attention, including coverage in Vogue, but acne readers need a clear split between glow and scar care.
Medical information disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or other qualified health professional about symptoms, medications, tests, or treatment decisions.
Table of Contents
- What did Charli XCX say?
- How do polynucleotides improve skin quality?
- Can they treat acne or acne scars?
- What should you ask before booking?
What did Charli XCX say?
PlayBack reports that Charli shared her routine on Instagram and credited polynucleotide injections for her glow in 2025 her Instagram remarks. She framed them as nourishment from within rather than added volume. She also signaled that fillers feel dated to her.
That framing matters for readers with acne. A glow treatment can improve light reflection and surface texture. It does not clear breakouts or rebuild deep scars on its own.
How do polynucleotides improve skin quality?
Dermatology Times describes the approach as purified DNA fragments that help tissue repair, modulate inflammation and support collagen production. The goal is gradual rejuvenation, not instant fill. Skin often looks more hydrated, even and resilient.
Comparative data in the Journal of Clinical Medicine describe subtle progressive gains in texture, fine lines and luminosity over weeks to months. A systematic review of 9 studies with 219 patients found significant gains in wrinkles, texture and elasticity, but rated the evidence low to moderate quality the systematic review. Expect refinement, not transformation.
Can they treat acne or acne scars?
For rolling atrophic scars, the signal is more specific. Small randomized and split-face trials reported better texture, elasticity, dermal thickness and scar appearance than placebo or saline, especially for rolling scars the scar trial summaries. That makes them interesting as a scar-appearance option.
They are not an active-acne treatment. A preliminary study in the Journal of Aesthetic Nursing found benefit for moderate-to-severe scars mainly alongside traditional scar treatments. Relatable Science reaches the same limit: hydration and collagen support may smooth appearance, without strong evidence that polynucleotides alone reliably clear acne or erase scars.
What should you ask before booking?
Access and timing shape the decision. Second Look Aesthetics notes injectables are licensed in South Korea and parts of Europe and Asia but lack U.S.
FDA approval for injection, with collagen-related effects usually needing multiple sessions over 8 to 12 weeks licensing and session guidance. That schedule suits maintenance, not quick fixes. Bring a scar-specific checklist to the consult:.
- Ask which scar types you have, since rolling scars have the best reported response.
- Ask what combination is planned, such as microneedling, laser, subcision or filler.
- Ask how many sessions, what interval and what result would count as success.
- Tell the clinic about active breakouts, keloid history and current retinoids or isotretinoin.