What is Sculptra and How Does It Stimulate Collagen?
Sagging skin, lack of firmness, and fine lines become more noticeable as we age. Without proper care, these fine lines can deepen into wrinkles. It’s important to note that this issue can affect everyone. The primary cause of skin deterioration is the reduction in collagen levels in the skin layers.
Sculptra is one of the technologies that helps in skin rejuvenation, as it also stimulates collagen production. In this article, we’ll explore what Sculptra is, whether it’s safe, its benefits, and which skin types it’s suitable for, along with other important details to know before deciding to undergo Sculptra treatment.
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is the world’s first collagen-stimulating substance. This innovative treatment helps stimulate the production of natural collagen in the skin layers, replenishing the collagen lost with age. As a result, it tightens, firms, and enhances skin elasticity. Additionally, Sculptra works by rejuvenating the deeper skin structures, strengthening the skin from within and restoring a youthful appearance in a natural way.
How Does Sculptra Work?
Sculptra is mixed with sterile water before being injected into the subcutaneous layer of the skin. During the first 2-3 days, the area where the injection was made will appear fuller and plumper due to the water molecules introduced. After that, the water molecules are absorbed by the body, leaving behind the PLLA crystals. At this stage, you may notice the lines and wrinkles becoming more visible.
But don’t worry! After this, Sculptra begins the process of stimulating collagen production through our immune system. It signals fibroblast cells, responsible for creating collagen fibers, to gather and multiply, leading to increased collagen production. This helps the skin in the treated area become tighter, plumper, and its overall structure stronger.
As time passes, Sculptra gradually breaks down, leaving behind the collagen fibers that the body has produced. This process helps to strengthen the skin’s structure long-term, with results from the lifting and skin rejuvenation lasting for about two years.
Who Should Get Sculptra?
- Individuals with sagging skin, lack of firmness, and reduced elasticity.
- Those with noticeable wrinkles, especially those caused by aging.
- People wanting to restore skin from the inside, especially if their skin has been neglected for a long time.
- Those seeking skin tightening and a fuller, more youthful appearance.
- Individuals looking for long-lasting results without frequent treatments, as Sculptra provides results for up to 2 years.
What Does Sculptra Help With?
- Restores deep skin layers and strengthens skin structure from within.
- Lifts sagging skin.
- Naturally fills in deep wrinkles and lines.
- Smooths fine lines, making the skin appear tighter and more even.
- Enhances skin hydration and radiance.
How Does Sculptra Differ from Other Procedures?
- Sculptra vs. Filler
Fillers, such as Hyaluronic acid (HA), hydrate and fill in sunken or hollow areas of the face, offering immediate plumping results. Sculptra, on the other hand, is made of PLLA, which stimulates the body to produce collagen naturally, improving skin structure and elasticity over time. Results from Sculptra begin to show after about 3 weeks and last longer than fillers, with effects lasting up to 2 years. - Sculptra vs. Meso Glow
Meso Glow involves injecting vitamins and beneficial extracts into the skin to nourish and address issues like acne, pigmentation, and skin dullness. However, its effects typically last 2-3 months. Sculptra, on the other hand, helps the skin become plump and firm while reducing wrinkles, with results lasting much longer. - Sculptra vs. Rejuran
Rejuran is a salmon DNA-based substance that helps stimulate the growth of fibroblasts, increasing collagen production and improving skin strength. It also enhances the skin barrier, reduces pore size, and improves skin texture. Sculptra, derived from plant sources, focuses on collagen stimulation, is less likely to cause allergic reactions, and does not remain in the body. It is ideal for those seeking skin firming, deep wrinkle reduction, and a fuller appearance.
Precautions for Sculptra Injection
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid this treatment.
- Not recommended for those with a history of allergic reactions to any components of Sculptra, including Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), or non-pyrogenic mannitol.
- Individuals with autoimmune diseases (e.g., Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, SLE) should avoid this treatment.
- Not suitable for those on immunosuppressive medications.
- Those with a history of severe allergic reactions (e.g., Anaphylaxis) should not undergo Sculptra injections.
- Avoid if there is a skin infection or inflammation at the injection site.
Potential Side Effects After Sculptra Injection
- In some cases, small lumps may be felt under the skin shortly after the procedure. These lumps are temporary and can be resolved by gently massaging the area as instructed by the doctor.
- Swelling, pain, and redness at the injection site may occur but will typically subside within 2-3 days.
Sculptra Injection Procedure
- The first step is a consultation where the doctor will assess your skin condition, discuss your concerns, and provide advice on pre- and post-treatment care.
- A topical anesthetic is applied to the injection area and left for approximately 45 minutes.
- While the anesthetic is taking effect, the doctor will prepare Sculptra in its active form by mixing it with sterile water.
- The doctor will then inject Sculptra into the subcutaneous layer of the skin, about 1.5-2 cm deep, using a 22-25 gauge blunt needle.
- After the injection, facial massage is performed to ensure the product is evenly distributed and to stimulate collagen production in the targeted areas.
Post-Sculptra Care Instructions
To achieve long-lasting results after your treatment, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions closely:
- Apply cold compresses to reduce pain, swelling, and bruising.
- Massage the treated area gently for 5 minutes, five times a day, starting 5 days after the procedure.
- You may apply makeup 4 hours after the procedure.
- Avoid intense exercise or activities that cause heavy sweating (e.g., saunas) for at least 24 hours.
- Stay away from direct sunlight or sunbathing for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours.
- Refrain from facial treatments, scrubs, or laser procedures for at least 2-4 weeks after the treatment.
