Skin boosters are a popular way to refresh tired-looking skin without changing your features. However, with so many names around, it can be hard to know where to start. At our doctor-led clinic in Ipswich, we are most often asked about Profhilo, polynucleotides, Sunekos and PRP. This guide explains how they differ and who each may suit. All four are for adults over 18.
What do skin boosters have in common?
All four treatments aim to improve skin quality: hydration, texture, firmness and glow. They do not add volume or reshape the face, which is the main difference from dermal fillers. Results build gradually and tend to look natural. In addition, each is usually given as a short course, followed by maintenance.
Where they differ is in what they contain and how they work.
The four skin boosters explained
Profhilo
Profhilo is a hyaluronic acid injectable made with patented NAHYCO® technology. It spreads beneath the skin and has a long-lasting stimulating effect on the dermal cells.
- Often chosen for: laxity and loss of firmness on the face, neck or body, plus dull, dehydrated skin
- Typical course: usually two sessions about four weeks apart, then maintenance
- Price: face or neck £250, face and neck £450, body rejuvenation £500
Read our full guide to Profhilo in Ipswich.
Polynucleotides
Polynucleotides are a bio-stimulating treatment made from purified DNA fragments. They stimulate tissue regeneration and fibroblasts, the cells that make collagen.
- Often chosen for: thin or crepey skin, the delicate under-eye area and uneven tone
- Typical course: usually around three sessions a few weeks apart
- Worth knowing: they are commonly derived from fish DNA, so they may not suit people with a fish allergy
- Price: skin boosters £200, eyes £200
Read our full guide to polynucleotides in Ipswich.
Sunekos
Sunekos combines hyaluronic acid with amino acids, the building blocks of collagen and elastin. Sunekos 200 is a lighter formulation, while Sunekos 1200 has more hyaluronic acid.
- Often chosen for: fine lines, crepey texture and dehydration (200), or more noticeable loss of firmness (1200)
- Typical course: several sessions, often around a week or two apart
- Price: Sunekos 200 £200, Sunekos 1200 £250
Read our full guide to Sunekos skin boosters.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma)
PRP is made from your own blood. We spin a small sample to separate the platelet-rich plasma, then inject it to amplify your natural growth factors.
- Often chosen for: thinning hair, its main use at our clinic, plus some skin concerns such as dark circles and scarring
- Typical course: for hair, often three or four sessions around a month apart, then maintenance
- Worth knowing: it may not suit people with certain blood disorders or those taking medicines that affect clotting
- Price: PRP for thinning hair from £200
Read our full guide to PRP for hair loss.
Skin boosters at a glance
| Main ingredient | Often chosen for | Price from | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profhilo | Hyaluronic acid | Laxity, firmness, hydration | £250 |
| Polynucleotides | Purified DNA fragments | Thin skin, eye area, uneven tone | £200 |
| Sunekos | Hyaluronic acid and amino acids | Fine lines, crepey texture, firmness | £200 |
| PRP | Your own platelet-rich plasma | Thinning hair, some skin concerns | £200 |
Which skin booster is right for me?
There is no single best option. The right choice depends on your skin, concerns, medical history and budget. As a rough guide:
- For loss of firmness on the face, neck or body, Profhilo is often a good starting point.
- For thin, crepey skin or the under-eye area, polynucleotides or Sunekos 200 may be worth discussing.
- For hydration plus collagen support over closer-together sessions, Sunekos may suit you.
- For thinning hair, PRP is the treatment to ask about.
Some people benefit from combining treatments. For example, polynucleotides around the eyes may sit well with Profhilo on the lower face. We only suggest a combination if we think it will genuinely help. You can also explore treatments by concern on our skin concerns page.
Is a skin booster right for me at all?
Skin boosters are not suitable for everyone. You may need to wait if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The same applies if you have an active infection or cold sore in the area. Certain medical conditions and medicines can also affect suitability.
That is why every plan starts with a consultation. The NHS has useful advice on what to consider before a cosmetic procedure. In addition, Save Face lists accredited practitioners.
A good routine at home helps results last. Daily SPF, such as Obagi Sun Shield SPF50, is the most important step. If you are unsure where to begin, take our skin quiz.
How we help you choose
At your consultation (£30), we go through your medical history and look closely at your skin. Then we talk about what you would like to change. We explain each option honestly, including what it can and cannot do. After that, we create a personalised plan with realistic expectations.
Results vary from person to person. See our pricing page for the latest prices, or browse our injectable treatments.
Frequently asked questions
Are skin boosters the same as filler?
No. Filler adds volume and shape. Skin boosters, however, aim to improve skin quality without changing your features.
How soon will I see results?
It varies by treatment. Some people notice better hydration within days. Firmness and texture usually improve gradually over several weeks.
Do I need maintenance treatments?
Usually, yes. Your skin keeps ageing, so most people have top-ups to help keep their results.
Book your consultation
Not sure which skin boosters are right for you? We are happy to help you decide at our clinic at 5 The Walk, Ipswich IP1 1EA.
Book your consultation online, call 01473 948 271 or message us on WhatsApp on 07938 168 157.
Recommended aftercare from our shop
- Obagi Sun Shield SPF50: broad-spectrum daily protection, the single most useful step after any skin treatment.
- Profhilo Haenkenium Cream 50ml: a daily hydrating cream from the makers of Profhilo, suited to any skin booster course.
- Skin Aesthetic Post-Procedure Pack: a 28-day supplement pack formulated to support skin around aesthetic treatments.
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