02 Dec Why Sculptra is Only Kind of a Filler (and So Much More)
Most dermal fillers are made with a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid (HA)—but not Sculptra. It’s technically part of the filler family at Parson Skin Center, but it also works completely different than most fillers. It is an injectable, and just like other “fillers” it is designed to volumize, smooth, and sculpt the area for a more youthful aesthetic. However, Sculptra is actually a form of collagen stimulation which means results are incredibly natural-looking.
Sculptra is the first and only poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) facial injectable that is FDA-approved to kick-start the body’s natural collagen production process. Where there is more collagen, there is more volume. Just like any kind of collagen induction therapy, results from Sculptra are not immediate. It takes time for the body to create that highly-desired collagen. However, results from Sculptra last up to two years on average. Compare that to the circa 12 months of most HA fillers, and it’s easy to see why so many people are falling in love with Sculptra. It fills the injection site with your body’s own natural collagen and it lasts longer.
The Science of Sculptra
Sculptra works with the body. It restores the inner structure you’ve lost over time (as we all lose collagen as we get older and the body produces less) or it can give you the desired structure you’ve always wanted. Sculptra is a fantastic choice for restoring lost facial volume while simultaneously smoothing out smile lines and facial wrinkles.
Unlike HA fillers, most clients will require multiple Sculptra treatments for the best results. On average, this comes to three treatments spaced three weeks apart. Little downtime is required after Sculptra, similar to recovering from Botox. There might be some slight swelling strictly from the needle and it is important not to raise your heart rate for 24 hours after the injection. Otherwise, you can go about your day. If you tend to swell up from HA fillers, that likely will not happen with Sculptra since you are not injecting an actual filler into the skin.
Is Sculptra for You?
The best candidates for Sculptra are those who prioritize a youthful appearance that is achieved naturally. There is no ideal age for Sculptra, but typically those in their 30s and 40s who are just starting to notice signs of collagen depletion and volume loss are drawn to this injectable. Younger patients can enjoy enhancement of their current volume using Sculptra.
However, for those in their late 40s and better, ask yourself what your goals are. The benefits of Sculptra are different than HA fillers—do you want immediate gratification? If so, HA fillers might be for you. Do you prefer graduate yet longer-lasting results? If so, Sculptra might be the answer. Sculptra actually addresses the root of facial (and top of the hand) aging, which is collagen loss. It works on a deeper level and with the body’s natural healing process.
It is important to build and maintain your own collagen foundation throughout your life. HA fillers can give you the look of more volume, but Sculptra integrates with the body. However, just like with any kind of collagen induction, results do not last forever. Our body is constantly “using it up,” so you will want to maintain your Sculptra results with new sessions every two years.
What Sets Sculptra Apart
Sculptra isn’t like any other filler. It has bioregenerative power that turns on our body’s collagen production. Sculptra has its own injection requirements, which means that only a reputable injector should be taking care of you. It can be especially helpful for those looking to treat nasolabial folds, but can also be used virtually anywhere else on the face and tops of the hands.
Some clients mix and match Sculptra with HA fillers. After all, every body part is going to have a different goal and requirement. Combining treatments can help you get the results you really want. To find out more about Sculptra and other injectables at Parson Skin Center, schedule a consultation today. Get in touch by calling the office or completing the online contact form right now.