PRP vs Exosomes vs Polynucleotides — Which Is Superior?

Each of these regenerative treatments aims to improve skin quality and hair density — but they work in different ways. At Santi London, our clinicians often use them alone or in sequence depending on your goals, medical profile, and budget.

Aspect PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Exosomes Polynucleotides
Source Your own blood (autologous) Cell-derived vesicles (lab processed, allogeneic) DNA fragments (salmon-derived or bio-synthetic)
Key mechanism Platelet growth factors signal tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis. Messenger RNA and proteins modulate inflammation, promote regeneration, and support stem cell signalling. Improves extracellular matrix hydration, fibroblast stimulation, and anti-inflammatory balance.
Main benefits Texture, tone, fine lines, early hair thinning, wound healing support. Rapid healing response, glow, reduction of inflammation post-laser or microneedling. Skin hydration, elasticity, post-procedure recovery, complement to lasers and PRP.
Downtime 1–2 days (mild redness or swelling) Minimal; sometimes mild warmth Minimal; transient redness possible
Allergy risk Very low (your own plasma) Low but dependent on purity/source Low; hypersensitivity rare but possible (fish-derived products)
Ideal for Skin or scalp needing regenerative support Post-procedure recovery, glow enhancement Dehydrated, fragile, or photo-damaged skin
Course 3 sessions every 4–6 weeks, then maintenance 1–3 sessions depending on product used 3–4 sessions at 2–3 week intervals, then maintenance
Scientific evidence Strong clinical track record in aesthetics and orthopaedics Rapidly expanding research; still early human data Moderate level evidence for dermal rejuvenation

How to choose between them

At Santi, our clinicians often start with PRP when the goal is to stimulate growth and repair using your own biology. Polynucleotides can then enhance hydration and structure, while exosomes may be introduced as a finishing step to calm inflammation and boost radiance. Each plan is individual and depends on your skin, scalp condition, and sensitivity profile.

Combination therapy

Many clients achieve the best results from combining modalities: for example, PRP + Polynucleotides for texture and density, or Microneedling + Exosomes for glow and recovery.

Compare all three at a glance

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

Autologous Hair & Skin Strong clinical use

Concentrated platelets from your own blood deliver growth factors that signal repair, collagen synthesis and, in selected cases, improved hair calibre.

Pros
  • Uses your own biology; very low allergy risk
  • Evidence-backed for texture and early hair thinning
  • Pairs well with microneedling or polynucleotides
Considerations
  • Works best as a series (3 sessions + maintenance)
  • Limited effect on fully bald, shiny areas
Course: 3x / 4–6 weeks Downtime: 1–2 days
How PRP works Book consultation

Exosomes

Cell-derived vesicles Recovery & Glow Emerging evidence

Nano-vesicles carrying proteins and RNAs that modulate inflammation and support regeneration; often used post-procedure for calm, speedy recovery.

Pros
  • Great for post-laser/microneedling recovery
  • Helps calm inflammation; fast “glow” effect
  • Can be layered with PRP in phased plans
Considerations
  • Human data still developing; product quality matters
  • May require a short series depending on goals
Course: 1–3 sessions Downtime: minimal
Regenerative science Ask a clinician

Polynucleotides

Dermal optimisation Hydration & Elasticity Adjunct to PRP

Bio-synthesised DNA fragments that improve extracellular matrix hydration, soothe inflammation, and support fibroblast activity.

Pros
  • Excellent for dehydrated or fragile skin
  • Comfortable downtime; complements lasers & PRP
  • Suitable across skin tones with screening
Considerations
  • Usually 3–4 sessions before maintenance
  • Fish-derived products: check sensitivities
Course: 3–4x / 2–3 weeks Downtime: minimal
About polynucleotides Plan my course

Consultation & personalisation

Your clinician will review your goals, medical history, and prior procedures to determine the best regenerative pathway. We can combine PRP, exosomes, and polynucleotides in a phased plan with detailed follow-up and photographic tracking.

Book consultation Back to PRP hub

Clinical Perspective: Which Is Best for Hair Loss?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) remains the most established regenerative treatment for hair loss. It uses your own blood platelets to deliver a concentrated boost of growth factors — including PDGF, VEGF and IGF — that stimulate follicle stem cells, extend the growth phase, and improve scalp circulation. For most people with early to moderate thinning, PRP provides the best balance of efficacy, safety and natural results.

Exosome therapy is an exciting frontier. These microscopic vesicles act as messengers between cells, carrying proteins and RNA that help modulate inflammation and signal repair. Although human data are still emerging, many clinicians use exosomes as an adjunct to PRP — to enhance post-treatment recovery, calm inflammation and potentially prolong results.

Polynucleotides are derived from DNA fragments that support fibroblast activity, improve hydration and restore balance in the scalp environment. While not a direct regrowth treatment, they can strengthen the dermal foundation that supports healthy follicles, making them an excellent companion to PRP or post-transplant maintenance plans.

At Santi London, we often combine these approaches sequentially — starting with a course of PRP to reactivate follicles, followed by exosomes or polynucleotides to consolidate results, reduce inflammation and improve long-term scalp health. The ideal protocol depends on the cause and stage of hair loss, overall health and individual response.

Book a consultation Learn more about hair loss at Santi

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PRP, exosomes, and polynucleotides be combined in one treatment plan?

Yes. Many clients benefit from a phased or combined approach. PRP provides growth factors for regeneration, polynucleotides hydrate and support the dermal matrix, while exosomes calm inflammation and enhance glow. Used together they complement each other and optimise repair.

Is PRP or exosome therapy better for hair loss?

For most early hair thinning cases, PRP remains the primary choice as it uses your own platelets to stimulate follicle repair. Exosomes show promise for improving scalp environment and reducing inflammation, though research is still emerging. A clinician can advise on sequencing or combination use.

What makes polynucleotides different from PRP?

Polynucleotides are bio-synthesised DNA fragments that hydrate, soothe, and improve elasticity. PRP delivers platelet-derived growth factors from your blood to signal repair. Polynucleotides can enhance outcomes when layered with PRP or used on sensitive or photo-damaged skin.

Are these regenerative treatments safe for all skin types?

Generally yes, with proper screening. PRP is autologous and suitable for all skin tones. Exosomes and polynucleotides are well tolerated when sourced from reputable laboratories. A clinician review ensures there are no contraindications such as infection, inflammation, or certain blood disorders.

How do I decide which regenerative option is best for me?

Book a consultation at Santi London. Your clinician will assess your goals, skin or hair condition, and medical history to create a personalised plan — whether that means PRP alone, exosomes for recovery, polynucleotides for hydration, or a combination protocol.

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