Stimulate and Restore with Sculptra
As we age, the natural production of collagen in our bodies decreases, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of facial volume. For those seeking a more refreshed appearance without seeming too overdone, Sculptra offers a revolutionary solution. This FDA-approved biostimulator has been trusted by experienced aesthetic practitioners for over a decade.
Let’s dive deeper into the importance of collagen production, what makes Sculptra unique, how it combats the signs of aging, and why it might be the perfect non-cosmetic treatment for you.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, and provides structure and strength to our skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Collagen production declines with age and can be further diminished by factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and the consumption of sugar and refined carbohydrates. This protein is the key to maintaining firm, supple skin. Generally, after age 20, our bodies produce about 1% less collagen each year. This decline results in fine lines, wrinkles, and a gaunt appearance in the midface.
Our body produces five types of collagen, but in this post, we will focus on Type I collagen, which constitutes 90% of the body’s collagen. Type I collagen is densely packed and essential for the structure and strength of skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Sculptra helps stimulate the production of this type of collagen, aiding in the restoration of skin appearance.
What is Sculptra?
Manufactured by Galderma, who also produce Dysport (wrinkle relaxer) and Restylane (dermal filler), Sculptra stands out from traditional fillers due to its unique formulation and mechanism of action.
Comprised of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), Sculptra is designed to stimulate your body’s natural collagen production. Unlike other fillers that simply add volume, Sculptra works from the inside out to rejuvenate your appearance. Immediately after treatment, you’ll notice some slight improvement as the product fills in lost volume, but the full results become visible over a few months as collagen production ramps up. This gradual process leads to smooth, natural-looking skin and improved tightness.
Why Biostimulators?
Biostimulators like Sculptra are ideal for those seeking natural-looking results. Unlike traditional fillers, Sculptra is a synthetic product in powder form, diluted with sterile water before injection. This liquid is then administered to areas needing collagen and elastin boost, such as the cheeks, temples, nasolabial folds, chin, and jawline. It sometimes is referred to as the 401K of injectables because it takes a few months and multiple sessions to see the full effects. And like any retirement plan, the results are well worth the wait. Sculptra continues to stimulate collagen for up to a year, and periodic touch-ups can maintain a fresh appearance for up to two years.
How Sculptra Helps with Facial Aging
One of the major advantages of Sculptra is its minimal downtime. Most patients can resume their daily activities immediately after their session, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles. Approved by the FDA in 2004 for treating facial fat loss and in 2014 for facial wrinkles and folds, Sculptra is a safe and trusted procedure. No special preparation is required before treatment, adding to its convenience. Oftentimes, providers will recommend using Sculptra along with other cosmetic treatments, such as wrinkle relaxers, to improve facial balancing and the longevity of results.
How Many Sculptra Treatments Do I Need?
The general rule of thumb is one vial per decade of age. For example, a 40-something person might start with four vials. These four vials are then injected as a series of treatments 6-8 weeks apart. This personalized approach ensures effective results and finely tunes to everyone’s needs.
Filler Vs Sculptra: What is the Difference?
Traditional fillers and Sculptra both aim to restore facial volume but achieve this through different mechanisms. Fillers provide immediate results by adding volume directly to the treated area. Sculptra, on the other hand, works gradually by stimulating the body’s collagen production, leading to long-lasting and natural results. While fillers are great for instant gratification, Sculptra offers a more gradual improvement —ideal for those seeking subtle, natural enhancements. Sculptra can also be used in other parts of the body, such as the glutes.
What is Aftercare Like?
One of the key benefits of Sculptra is its minimal downtime. Most patients can return to their normal activities right after their session. Some might experience mild swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site, but these side effects typically resolve quickly.
Aftercare includes avoiding strenuous activity for the 24 hours after your treatment, as well as massaging the treated area. This is different from other injectables like wrinkle relaxers and fillers where you are told to not touch or rub the treated area. With Sculptra, on the other hand, it’s incredibly important to massage the treated areas using moderate pressure in a circular motion for five minutes a day, five times a day, for five consecutive days.
Also known as the 5-5-5 rule, this massage technique is an important step in integrating the product into your tissue and to allow the Sculptra particles to produce collagen evenly under your skin. While it is unlikely, if the treated area is not consistently massaged, the formation of nodules can occur. Please make sure to follow any instruction or guidance from your provider.
When Do You See Results?
Initial results from Sculptra are noticeable as it fills in lost volume, but the best outcomes appear gradually over a few months. This delay allows for a natural-looking enhancement as your body’s collagen production increases. Full results are typically visible after three to four months, with continued improvement up to the one-year mark. Results can last up to two years.
Refresh Your Look with Sculptra at Elase
Sculptra offers a unique and effective solution for those looking to subtly restore volume and smoothness to their skin. By stimulating natural collagen production, Sculptra provides long-lasting, elegant results that enhance your natural beauty.
At Elase, we’re currently offering 20% off Sculptra treatments for members (non-members still get 15%). Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation to learn how you can benefit from Sculptra and claim this limited time offer.
