What is Sculptra? How Does It Help and Who Is It Suitable For?
Sculptra is a new skincare technology that is gaining popularity today. When injected, it can address multiple skin concerns. If you’re considering Sculptra, this article will delve into what it is, how it helps, and whether it’s right for you.
Table of Contents
- What is Sculptra?
- Is Sculptra Good? What Does It Help With?
- How is Sculptra Different from Filler?
- Where Can Sculptra Be Injected?
- How Many Times Should Sculptra Be Injected?
- How Long Does Sculptra Last After Injection?
- Who is Sculptra Suitable For?
- Sculptra Aftercare Instructions
- Conclusion
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is a Poly-L-Lactic acid (PLLA) substance that stimulates the body to naturally produce collagen. It is often referred to as “liquid threads,” and it is produced in the U.S. by Galderma. Sculptra has been shown to be very safe, as it has received approval from the FDA in the U.S., Europe, and Thailand.
A single vial of Sculptra contains 10 cc of the substance. When injected, it is mixed with sterile water and then injected into the dermis and subcutaneous layers of the skin. After the injection, the body absorbs the substance and begins producing collagen, which helps the skin become firmer and reduces wrinkles.
Is Sculptra Good? What Does It Help With?
Sculptra stimulates collagen production, revitalizing the skin from within. It focuses on stimulating the production of collagen types 1 and 3. Collagen type 1 is essential for skin elasticity, helping tighten sagging skin, while type 3 supports the regeneration of new skin and repairs damaged skin.
Once these two types of collagen are produced, they increase the fibroblast cells that generate collagen fibers, strengthening the skin’s structure. Research has shown that Sculptra can increase collagen by up to 66.5% after 3 months, making it the most effective collagen-stimulating product currently available.
Besides stimulating collagen production, Sculptra can also:
- Help lift and tighten the face, addressing sagging skin
- Reduce deep wrinkles and make shallow wrinkles less noticeable
- Improve skin elasticity and reduce the formation of new wrinkles
- Increase skin brightness and moisture
- Smooth the skin and minimize the appearance of pores
For those wondering whether Sculptra is dangerous, it is important to note that Sculptra has been safely used to stimulate collagen production since 1999, supported by over 50 research studies. However, there are certain people who should avoid Sculptra injections:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People with skin infections in the injection area
- Those with autoimmune diseases like SLE
- People allergic to Sculptra ingredients, such as Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), Non-pyrogenic mannitol, or Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
How is Sculptra Different from Filler?
Sculptra and fillers are quite different, as they target different issues. Sculptra is aimed at stimulating collagen production in the skin, gradually tightening the skin naturally. Although the results are not immediate, the skin improves over time, and multiple treatments are necessary for long-term results. The effects of Sculptra last longer than those of fillers.
Fillers, on the other hand, focus on adding volume and can fill in wrinkles and restore facial structure in specific areas. The results are visible immediately after the injection, but they typically last for a shorter period compared to Sculptra.
Where Can Sculptra Be Injected?
Sculptra can be injected into several areas to stimulate collagen production. Common areas for Sculptra injections include:
- Temples: Helps to fill in hollow temples and lifts the outer corners of the eyes and eyebrows.
- Cheeks: Helps plump and firm sagging cheeks and reduce lines around the mouth and nasolabial folds.
- Jawline: Lifts and firms the jawline, creating a more defined facial contour.
How Many Times Should Sculptra Be Injected?
It is recommended to undergo 2 to 3 treatments, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, for clear results. The number of vials used may depend on your age and skin condition. For example, someone in their 30s may need 3 vials, with one vial per session, or as determined by your doctor.
How Long Does Sculptra Last After Injection?
Sculptra’s results can last up to 2 years. Collagen production starts about 5 days after injection, and changes such as reduced wrinkles and firmer skin typically become noticeable within 2 to 4 weeks. After the procedure, mild swelling, redness, and discomfort may occur, but these side effects usually subside within 2 to 3 days.
Who is Sculptra Suitable For?
Sculptra is ideal for:
- People over 30 years old
- Those with loose, sagging skin
- Individuals with visible wrinkles
- Those who want a natural, gradual improvement
- Those seeking long-lasting results without frequent treatments
Sculptra Aftercare Instructions
After Sculptra injections, you should:
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Avoid heat exposure and makeup in the treated areas for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid other facial treatments for about 2 to 4 weeks after injection.
- Massage your face immediately after treatment using the Triple 5 method: 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days.
Here are the steps for massaging:
- Step 1: Make a fist with your hand and use your thumb to massage the temple area, moving toward the hairline.
- Step 2: Use your thumb to massage the cheeks, moving upward and out toward the sides of the face.
- Step 3: Use your palm or fist to massage from the cheeks to the cheekbones in circular motions.
- Step 4: Use your palm or fist to massage from the chin to the jawline and outward along the side of the face.
Conclusion
Sculptra is a PLLA substance that stimulates collagen production in the skin, helping firm and tighten sagging skin caused by collagen loss. It reduces wrinkles and helps brighten the skin, with results lasting up to 2 years. To achieve optimal results, post-treatment care is crucial, and regular massages according to the Triple 5 method should be followed for 5 consecutive days.
