What is Sculptra? How Does It Stimulate Collagen?

What is Sculptra? How Does It Stimulate Collagen?

As we age, one noticeable change is the appearance of fine lines and sagging skin that no longer looks as firm as it did in youth. If left unaddressed, deep wrinkles and loose, dull skin may develop. This happens to everyone due to the body’s decreased ability to produce collagen. Collagen is a vital component of the skin, and its decline leads to skin aging.

Sculptra is a new technology that helps restore the skin from the inside by stimulating collagen production. It revitalizes sagging skin, making it smooth and youthful. This method is gaining popularity today.

In this article, we will learn more about Sculptra, its benefits, how it works, who it’s suitable for, and compare it to other collagen-boosting methods. We will also discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and other essential information you should know before deciding to get Sculptra injections.

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is a Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) substance that helps stimulate collagen production in the skin. It’s the world’s first and original collagen biostimulator. Sculptra is designed to restore collagen lost over time, improving skin firmness, elasticity, and volume. It helps restore skin from the inside out, making it stronger and rejuvenated naturally.

Sculptra has been used in medical treatments since 1999 and is supported by over 50 research studies. It is FDA-approved in the United States, so you can be confident in its safety and effectiveness.

What is Collagen? Why is it Important?

Before understanding Sculptra in detail, it’s important to know about collagen and its role in the skin.

Collagen is a long-chain protein that acts as the main structure in connective tissues such as skin, tendons, and blood vessels. In the skin, collagen makes up about 75% of the structure, and it represents 1/3 of all the protein in the body. Collagen plays a critical role in maintaining skin elasticity, strength, and moisture retention.

There are different types of collagen, each serving a unique role:

• Collagen Type I: The most abundant type in the body, found in skin, blood vessels, and tendons. It gives tissues strength and flexibility, ensuring the skin maintains its shape and resilience.
• Collagen Type II: Found in cartilage and joints, it provides strength and absorbs shock.
• Collagen Type III: Often found with Type I collagen, it supports blood vessels and skin.
• Collagen Type IV: Found in the basement membrane of various organs, it helps with tissue exchange and plays a role in the nervous and circulatory systems.
• Collagen Type V: Found in cell membranes and the placenta, it helps organize skin cells and promotes tissue growth.

Collagen is essential for the body, but collagen production decreases with age. Studies show that the body loses about 1.5% of collagen every year starting around the age of 25. As collagen decreases, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and dryness.

How Does Sculptra Work?

Sculptra contains PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid), which stimulates collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin. After injection, Sculptra is mixed with sterile water, and initially, the skin may appear fuller due to the water molecules. After a few days, the water is absorbed into the body, leaving behind the PLLA particles.

Sculptra works by stimulating collagen production through the immune system. It signals fibroblast cells, which are responsible for creating collagen fibers, to multiply and enhance collagen production. Research shows that Sculptra can increase collagen production by up to 66.5%, leading to firmer, smoother, and stronger skin.

As time passes, Sculptra gradually dissolves, leaving behind the new collagen that the body has created. This strengthens the skin and helps maintain a youthful appearance for about 2 years.

How Does Sculptra Differ from Other Methods?

• Sculptra vs. Fillers: Fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, are used to immediately fill in areas of volume loss and hydrate the skin. They last between 6 to 24 months. In contrast, Sculptra stimulates the body to naturally produce collagen, improving skin strength, elasticity, and volume over time.
• Sculptra vs. Meso Glow (Meso Facial): Meso Glow involves injecting vitamins and extracts to nourish the skin, reducing acne, dark spots, and pigmentation, with effects lasting 2 to 3 months. Sculptra, on the other hand, stimulates collagen production from within, helping the skin become firmer and more youthful in the long term.
• Sculptra vs. Rejuran: Rejuran contains Polynucleotide (PN), derived from salmon DNA, which promotes fibroblast growth and collagen production. Sculptra, which uses PLLA, stimulates collagen from within, resulting in firmer skin and improved elasticity, with longer-lasting effects.

Who is Sculptra Suitable For?

• Individuals with sagging skin or loss of skin elasticity.
• Those with visible wrinkles, especially age-related ones.
• People seeking deep skin rejuvenation from within.
• Those who want to firm and volumize their skin with longer-lasting results (Sculptra lasts for about 2 years).

What Can Sculptra Do for You?

• Rejuvenates the skin from within and strengthens the skin.
• Tightens sagging skin.
• Reduces deep wrinkles naturally.
• Smoothens fine lines and makes the skin firmer.
• Enhances skin hydration and radiance.

How Is Sculptra Injected?

1. First, a skin assessment is done, and concerns are discussed with the doctor. You will also be informed about pre- and post-treatment care.
2. A local anesthetic is applied to the treatment area for about 45 minutes.
3. The doctor prepares the Sculptra in its active form by mixing it with sterile water.
4. The doctor then injects the prepared Sculptra into the skin at a depth of 1.5-2 centimeters using a fine needle.
5. After the injection, a gentle massage is performed to ensure even distribution of the product.

How to Care for Your Skin After Sculptra Injections?

• Follow the “Triple 5” technique: massage your face five times a day for 5 minutes each, for 5 days to help the product spread evenly.
• Avoid makeup, saunas, or steaming for 24 hours after the procedure.
• Protect your skin from UV exposure until the swelling and redness subside.
• Wait 2-4 weeks before performing other facial procedures.

Is Sculptra Safe?

Sculptra has been used to boost collagen production since 1999 and is FDA-approved in the U.S. It has been researched and proven to be safe with continuous positive results.

Possible Side Effects After Sculptra Injections

After the procedure, you may experience swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection sites, but these symptoms typically resolve within 2-3 days. In some cases, small lumps may be felt under the skin initially, but these will gradually disappear with massage as recommended by the doctor.

When Will I See Results from Sculptra?

You will start to notice results around 3 weeks after the treatment, and the full effects will become apparent by 3 months. The results can last up to 2 years.

How Many Sculptra Treatments Are Needed?

If you have mild skin concerns, 1 vial per session is recommended, with treatments spaced 1 month apart for 3 sessions. For more significant skin issues or individuals over 30, 2 vials may be recommended per session.

How Long Does Sculptra Last?

Sculptra typically lasts around 2 years after 2-3 treatment sessions. If only one session is done without follow-ups, the effects may last only 2-4 months.

How to Identify Authentic Sculptra?

Authentic Sculptra will have a holographic sticker on the box, a raised “S” logo on the packaging, Thai-language labeling, and an FDA registration number. You can also verify authenticity through the eZTracker app by scanning the QR code on the box.

Conclusion

Sculptra is a powerful collagen-stimulating substance that revitalizes, tightens, and lifts the skin naturally. It delivers long-lasting results and is FDA-approved for safety. By choosing the right professional clinic and ensuring the use of authentic products, you can confidently rejuvenate your skin.