Sculptra
As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin, resulting in wrinkles, fine lines, and a loss of volume. Fortunately, Sculptra offers a non-surgical solution to turn back the clock, with results lasting up to two years. Unlike hyaluronic acid, Sculptra’s poly-L-lactic acid stimulates your body’s own collagen production, rejuvenating your skin naturally. It’s like a youth booster, plumping your skin and locking in moisture. Sculptra is a versatile artist, capable of addressing: wrinkles and fine lines, sunken cheeks, skin texture and ageing necks.
Treatment snapshot
45 mins
appointment
2/5
discomfort
Minimal
downtime
Lasts
18-24 months
FAQs
Sculptra is composed of poly-L-lactic acid, a biocompatible substance, to stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. When injected into the skin, it encourages the growth of fresh collagen fibers over time. This increased collagen production helps to smooth wrinkles, fine lines, and restore lost volume. Sculptra’s gradual and natural approach results in a rejuvenated appearance that lasts longer than some other fillers, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking a non-surgical solution to facial aging.
You can expect to start noticing the results of Sculptra treatment gradually, usually over several weeks to months, as the poly-L-lactic acid stimulates your body’s collagen production. The full effects will become more apparent with time, providing a natural and lasting improvement to your skin’s appearance.
Sculptra has a well-established history of use for cosmetic purposes. It’s safety and effectiveness have led to its use in medical settings, including the NHS, for non-cosmetic applications such as treating HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy. This extensive history of use, both in cosmetic and medical contexts, underscores its safety and reliability. Nevertheless, individual experiences may vary.
The choice between Sculptra and hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers depends on your individual goals, preferences, and the specific concerns you wish to address:
Sculptra:
- Collagen Stimulator: Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid, which stimulates your body’s natural collagen production. It offers gradual and longer-lasting results compared to HA fillers.
- Results: Sculptra results develop gradually over several months, providing a natural-looking improvement in volume and skin quality.
- Treatment Areas: Sculptra is often used for addressing volume loss in larger areas like cheeks.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers:
- Immediate Results: HA fillers like Juvederm and Restylane offer instant results, making them suitable for individuals seeking immediate improvements.
- Reversible: HA fillers can be partially or fully reversed with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if you’re dissatisfied with the results or experience complications.
- Treatment Areas: HA fillers are versatile and can address a wide range of concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, lip augmentation, and adding volume to various facial areas.
Sculptra is not easily reversible in the same way that hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers can be reversed using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. While HA fillers can be quickly dissolved if needed, Sculptra works differently.
Sculptra is a collagen stimulator that gradually encourages your body to produce its own collagen over time. This means that the results develop gradually and become integrated into your natural collagen network.
However, Sculptra’s effects are not permanent, and they will gradually fade over time. The best approach if you’re unhappy with the results of Sculptra is to wait for it to naturally dissipate.
Sculptra can be relatively expensive for several reasons:
- Advanced Technology: Sculptra is based on poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic biocompatible material that stimulates collagen production. The technology behind Sculptra is advanced and has undergone extensive research and development.
- Specialised Training: Administering Sculptra requires specific training and expertise. Healthcare providers who offer Sculptra treatments often invest time and resources in education and training to ensure safe and effective administration.
- Gradual Results: Sculptra provides gradual, long-lasting results that can continue to improve over time. This extended duration of effectiveness contributes to its cost-effectiveness over the long term.
- Quality Control: Reputable brands like Sculptra maintain strict quality control measures to ensure product safety and consistency. These measures increase production costs.
Sculptra can be used to help improve the appearance of jowls, but it’s essential to have realistic expectations. Jowls are typically caused by a combination of factors, including the natural ageing process, loss of collagen and skin elasticity, and gravity. Sculptra works by stimulating collagen production, which can help to improve skin laxity and add volume to the treated area over time.
When used strategically by a skilled healthcare provider, Sculptra can enhance the jawline and lift sagging skin in the jowl area. However, the results are gradual and may take several months to become noticeable. Multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired outcome.
Some common alternatives include:
- CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing: CO2 laser skin resurfacing is a highly effective procedure that uses laser technology to remove damaged skin layers and stimulate collagen production. It can improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and address sun damage. The results can be significant but may require downtime for recovery.
- Radiofrequency Microneedling: Radiofrequency microneedling, such as Secret RF or Mopheus8, combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy. It promotes collagen production and skin tightening while addressing wrinkles, acne scars, and skin texture irregularities.
- Dermal Fillers: In addition to Sculptra, there are various dermal fillers available, each with its unique properties. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers like Juvederm and Teosyal provide immediate results by adding volume to the skin.
- Chemical Peels: Chemical peels use various acid solutions to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture and appearance. They can help with wrinkles, pigmentation issues, and acne scars.
- Surgical Procedures: For more significant changes, surgical options like facelifts or neck lifts, may be considered.
