Sculptra Original Collagen Biostimulator
Sculptra Original Collagen Biostimulator stimulates collagen with results lasting 2 years. The pinnacle of Collagen Type 1 replenishment, achieving 66.5% within 3 months.
For those who have tried many programs but still do not see improvements in their facial skin, Sculptra is a new option. Research from around the world supports its ability to genuinely stimulate collagen and its high safety standards, being long-approved by the USFDA. But before we get to know Sculptra, let's first understand collagen.
How important is collagen to the skin?
Collagen is a long-chain protein that forms the main structure in human connective tissues, such as skin, tendons, and blood vessels, especially in the skin, accounting for one-third of the body’s proteins and comprising up to 75% of the skin. Collagen helps make the skin flexible, strong, and maintains moisture.
There are several types of collagen, divided into 5 main types as follows:
Collagen Type I The most abundant in the body, it provides structure to skin, blood vessel walls, and tendons. It is tough and strong, helping tissues remain elastic and retain their shape, protecting them from tearing. In the skin, this type of collagen is prevalent, helping it to be flexible and smooth.
Collagen Type II Commonly found in cartilage, such as ear cartilage, rib cage, and trachea, it helps bear weight and provides strength to various joints while moving, absorbing impacts to prevent bodily injuries.
Collagen Type III Found less frequently, usually works in conjunction with Collagen Type I, found in the skin, muscles, and blood vessel walls.
Collagen Type IV Specific to the basement membrane of various organs, connective tissue covering muscles and fat, it functions in substance exchange between tissue layers, aiding in nerve and vascular functions.
Collagen Type V Present in the cell linings such as in the cornea, works together with collagen in the skin, hair, and nails, and is abundant in fetal tissues and the placenta, helping cells align orderly and promoting the growth of fibers in the skin layer.
Collagen is a crucial protein found in the body, with studies showing that the body loses 1.5% of collagen per year starting from around the age of 25. As collagen levels gradually decrease, it manifests externally as skin beginning to show wrinkles, sagging, drying, and losing firmness.
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is composed of Poly-L-Lactic acid particles, also known as PLLA. It is the world's first original natural collagen biostimulator. It stimulates collagen production in the skin, replacing collagen that is lost with age. It helps to firm, plump, and make the skin more elastic, rejuvenating the skin from its deep structure, making it stronger and naturally restoring its youthful appearance.
Sculptra has been used in medical applications since 1999, backed by more than 50 research studies, and is certified by the US FDA, ensuring its safety. Sculptra is produced and developed by Galderma Laboratories, L.P. The PLLA particles in Sculptra use a patented manufacturing process exclusive to Galderma, known as PLLA-SCA, which allows safe and effective injection into the skin.
How does Sculptra work?
When injected into the subcutaneous layer, the treated area initially appears plump due to the water molecules injected. After a few days, the water is absorbed by the body, leaving only PLLA crystals. This phase may temporarily reveal wrinkles and lines.
Subsequently, Sculptra stimulates collagen production through the immune system by signaling fibroblast cells, which are responsible for creating collagen fibers, to gather and increase in number. Research shows that Sculptra can increase collagen production by up to 66.5%. The treated skin becomes firmer, plumper, and the deep skin structure strengthens over time. Sculptra gradually dissolves, leaving behind only the collagen fibers created by the body, helping to maintain a strong skin structure and lasting effects for about 2 years.
How is Sculptra different from Fillers?
Filler injections use hyaluronic acid, which is known for its moisture retention properties and is suitable for those looking to add volume to the face, adjust facial structure due to fat or bone loss, or target specific areas. Fillers show immediate results and each brand and type has a different duration, ranging from 6 to 24 months.
Unlike fillers, Sculptra is a PLLA-based substance that naturally stimulates the body's collagen production, enhancing the internal structure of the skin, making it more elastic and smooth, and addressing sagging skin. The results become apparent after 3 weeks and are clearly visible by the third month, lasting up to 25 months or about 2 years.
Who is Sculptra suitable for?
- Suitable for those with sagging, inelastic skin.
- Suitable for those with visible aging wrinkles.
- Suitable for those looking to rejuvenate the internal structure of the skin, especially if neglected for a long time.
- Suitable for those looking to firm and plump their skin.
- Suitable for those seeking long-lasting results without frequent treatments, as Sculptra's effects can last up to 2 years.
What can Sculptra help with?
- Helps rejuvenate the deep layers of the skin, strengthening its structure.
- Helps lift sagging skin.
- Helps fill deep wrinkles and lines, making them appear fainter naturally.
- Helps reduce small wrinkles, making the skin tighter and smoother.
- Helps hydrate and brighten the skin.
Post-Injection Care for Sculptra:
- Massage the face 5 times a day for 5 minutes each, for 5 consecutive days, to help distribute the product evenly across the face.
- Avoid makeup, saunas, steam baths, and applying creams in the needle marks area for 24 hours.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight and UV light until swelling and redness subside.
- If you plan to have other facial treatments, wait 2-4 weeks.
Contraindications for Sculptra Injections:
- Not for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- Not for use in individuals allergic to any component of Sculptra, including Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and Non-pyrogenic mannitol.
- Not for use in individuals with autoimmune diseases (e.g., Autoimmune, SLE).
- Not for use in individuals on immunosuppressive medications.
- Not for use in individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis).
- Not for use in individuals with skin infections or inflammation at the injection site.
How soon can results be seen after Sculptra injections?
Results begin to appear at week 3, with clear outcomes observable at 3 months, lasting approximately 2 years or 25 months.
How often should Sculptra be injected?
For those with minor skin issues, it is recommended to inject 1 vial per session, with 3 sessions spaced 1 month apart, maintaining skin condition for about 2 years. For those with more significant skin issues or over the age of 30, injecting 2 vials per session is recommended.
How long does Sculptra last?
When following the initial 2-3 injection sessions to adjust the skin condition, the effects can last for 2 years. However, if only one session is done without follow-up injections, the results may last about 2-4 months.
Sculptra is a collagen-stimulating substance that lifts and brightens the skin, rejuvenating the internal structure for long-lasting effects. The duration and results depend on the individual and the expertise of the experienced cosmetic physician. Sculptra is certified by both the US FDA and the Thai FDA, ensuring that our clinic prioritizes safety and only uses genuine products directly imported by the company.
MAYA Chiang Mai
