What is Sculptra, a new type of collagen-stimulating product? Who is it suitable for?

Posted by romrawinclinic

Many of you have likely heard of Sculptra, a procedure that stimulates collagen production in the skin, helping to rejuvenate it from age-related issues such as wrinkles, sagging, and loss of firmness. Its remarkable effectiveness has led to significant interest in the procedure. Today, Romrawin Clinic has compiled a comprehensive guide to Sculptra, covering everything you need to know about the procedure, from what it is and how it works on the skin to its benefits, who it's suitable for, its risks, the cost, and more.

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is a synthetic substance that stimulates collagen production under the skin. Its main component is PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic acid), which helps to increase the number and density of collagen fibers beneath the skin. This results in skin rejuvenation, restoring firmness, smoothness, and strengthening the skin's structure.

Sculptra is a collagen stimulant that is safe for the body, leaves no residue, and is naturally broken down and eliminated from the body. Manufactured by Galderma Laboratories, LP, Sculptra is also the world's first Collagen Biostimulator to receive safety certification from the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA).

How Sculptra works.

As is well known, Sculptra primarily consists of small-molecule PLLA. Before injecting this synthetic substance into the skin, it is mixed with sterile water to ensure a homogeneous mixture. It is then injected into the subcutaneous layer. When these small PLLA molecules are injected into the skin, they react with fibroblasts (stem cells) to stimulate collagen production and increase collagen volume.

How is collagen important to the skin?

Since Sculptra injections have the property of stimulating collagen in the skin, it's good to know some basic details about collagen first: what is collagen and what is its importance to the skin?

Collagen is a fibrous protein that makes up approximately 35-40% of various tissues in the human body, including bones, tendons, skin, and muscles. The importance of collagen to various tissues, including the skin, lies in its ability to provide strength, elasticity, prevent tissue tearing, and retain moisture, resulting in smooth skin.

The body contains various types of collagen. The main types of collagen important for the skin, helping to maintain strength, elasticity, and smoothness, are Collagen Type 1, which is the most abundant type in the body, and Collagen Type 3.

However, although collagen is a fibrous protein that provides elasticity, the body's collagen production decreases with age. This leads to sagging skin, loss of firmness and elasticity, and the appearance of wrinkles.

Collagen stimulation with Sculptra.

Sculptra injections in the dermis stimulate collagen production, particularly Collagen Type 1, the most abundant collagen in the body. Studies show that Sculptra achieves its full potential and increases Collagen Type 1 by up to 66.5% three months after injection.

Where can Sculptra be injected?

The areas where Sculptra can be injected to stimulate collagen are as follows:

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sunken cheeks
Cheeks
Under the cheekbones
Face frame
chin

How does Sculptra injection differ from other methods?

Although Sculptra injections are a trending collagen-stimulating innovation, many people are still wondering how Sculptra differs from these other procedures.

Injecting Sculptra

Sculptra injections stimulate collagen production in the subcutaneous layer. They are suitable for individuals with sagging, loose skin and wrinkles. Sculptra injections can fill in the injected area without creating lumps, and importantly, they continuously stimulate the production of new collagen, especially Collagen Type 1.

Filler injection

FillerHyaluronic acid is a type of dermal filler that adds volume to the injected area, making it look fuller and plumper. Filler injections are commonly used in various areas such as under the eyes, lips, and chin.

The main difference between filler injections and Sculptra injections is that fillers typically last 6-18 months depending on the brand used. Fillers are also injected to fill in deficient areas and create a fuller appearance without stimulating collagen production, unlike Sculptra, which lasts up to 2 years and stimulates new collagen production.

Hifu treatment

Making Hifu High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to deliver energy to the SMAS layer of the skin, causing skin contraction and stimulating collagen production. This helps address sagging skin, tighten the skin, and reduce wrinkles. HIFU devices come with various treatment heads, and popular models include Ultherapy, Ultraformer III, and the newest Ultraformer MPT.

Although both methods can stimulate collagen in the skin, the difference between Hifu and Sculptra lies in the procedure. Hifu uses ultrasound waves, while Sculptra injects PLLA molecules into the skin. Furthermore, there's the difference in the timeframe for results after treatment. Hifu The effects last approximately 4-6 months, and repeat treatments are necessary to maintain the results. This differs from Sculptra, whose results last up to 2 years, but this also depends on receiving the appropriate dose.

Did you know? Besides stimulating collagen under the skin with Hifu treatment, there are other methods to stimulate collagen, lift and tighten the face, and restore a youthful appearance with equally amazing results. Romrawin invites you to learn about them. Thermage Ulther Skin lifting without downtime.

Botox injection

Botox Botulinum Toxin Type A has the property of temporarily reducing muscle activity, which is effective in reducing wrinkles in various areas. It can be used to reshape the face, reduce the size of the jaw, and can also be injected...Face liftingIt can also help to firm the skin.

The difference between Sculptra injections and Botox is that Sculptra stimulates collagen production in the skin, while Botox only acts on the nervous system to temporarily reduce muscle activity. Because the muscles are less efficient and not moving when expressing facial emotions, wrinkles and folds do not occur while the Botox is active.

Who is suitable for Sculptra injections?

Sculptra injection checklist: Who is suitable for this injection? (See below.)

People with sagging, loose skin.
People with noticeably wrinkled skin.
People aged 25 and older: As we age, our skin loses collagen.
Those who want to tighten their skin.
Those who want long-lasting results after the procedure.

People who are not suitable for Sculptra injections.

The following individuals are not suitable for Sculptra collagen stimulation injections:

The skin is inflamed or infected.
Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
People who are taking immunosuppressant drugs.
People with autoimmune diseases (SLE)
Individuals with a history of allergy to any of Sculptra's ingredients.

Preparation before Sculptra injection.

The following steps should be taken to prepare for a Sculptra injection:

Research and thoroughly understand Sculpta before getting injections, including what skin problems it can address, its advantages and limitations, where to get it done, and the cost, etc.
It is advisable to consult and be evaluated by a doctor before receiving the injection to determine if the patient is suitable for the injection.
Get enough sleep and rest.
Before receiving Sculptra injections, it is recommended to avoid smoking and alcoholic beverages.
Stop taking all medications and supplements that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin, NSAIDs, vitamin E, and fish oil, for at least two weeks.

The procedure for injecting Sculptra.

The general procedure for Sculptra injections is as follows:

The doctor will assess the problem and skin condition before injection to determine the appropriate amount of Sculptra to use.
The technician will apply a local anesthetic to the area where Sculptra will be injected and leave it on for approximately 30-40 minutes until the anesthetic takes effect.
Once the anesthetic has taken effect, the doctor will begin injecting Sculptra into the subcutaneous layer.
Once the doctor has finished injecting Sculptra, they will massage the area to help the medication spread evenly.
After all procedures are completed, the doctor will discuss post-injection care instructions for Sculptra.

How to take care of yourself after Sculptra injection.

After Sculptra injection, you should follow these self-care steps to ensure optimal results and effectiveness.

For the first day after Sculptra injection, avoid makeup, moisturizing creams, and engaging in heat-related activities or sun exposure, such as outdoor sports, saunas, or steam rooms.
Other facial procedures can be performed 2-4 weeks after the injection. If you have a post-injection appointment, it is recommended to postpone it until the waiting period is complete.
You should massage your face immediately after the injection, following the method recommended by your doctor. Begin by massaging along the muscle lines and in the area where Sculptra was injected.

The results obtained from Sculptra injections.

The skin in areas with sagging becomes firmer, wrinkles appear shallower, and the skin becomes smoother.
Strengthens the skin's structure.
There was a 66.5% increase in Collagen Type 1.
This treatment stimulates collagen production in the skin, and the results can last for a long time when the dosage recommended by the doctor is administered.

Advantages and limitations of Sculptra

Many people are likely wondering about the advantages and limitations of Sculptra injections to help them make an informed decision before getting them. Today, Romrawin Clinic would like to summarize the benefits and limitations of collagen stimulation injections with Sculptra in an easy-to-understand way, as follows:

Advantages of Sculptra

The results can last a long time.
It helps stimulate collagen production under the skin, especially Collagen Type 1, by up to 66.5%.
The skin where Sculptra is injected becomes firmer and more elastic.
Restores skin's youthful appearance; wrinkles appear shallower.
Helps to brighten the skin.

Limitations of Sculptra

After a Sculptra injection, you may experience pain, swelling, redness, bruising, and possibly a palpable lump under the skin. These are normal symptoms and will resolve on their own.
The cost of each injection is quite high.

Is Sculptra expensive? How much does it cost?

Sculptra generally costs around 35,000-45,000 baht per vial. One vial of Sculptra contains 10 cc. The price for this procedure is relatively high compared to other injectable procedures, but the actual cost may vary depending on the promotions offered by the clinic.

Is Sculptra injection safe?

For those concerned about the safety of Sculptra injections, it's important to explain that Sculptra is a synthetic substance that has been used medically since 1999. Numerous studies support its effectiveness and positive results after injection. Furthermore, it is a safe synthetic substance that is naturally broken down and eliminated from the body. Importantly, Sculptra is also approved by the US FDA.

In summary, Sculptra injections are a safe subcutaneous collagen stimulation procedure. For even greater safety, choose a specialist with experience, as they will understand the skin problems being addressed, ensuring the patient receives optimal results.

Frequently asked questions about Sculptra.

Answering frequently asked questions about Sculptra that everyone is wondering about.

How long do the effects of Sculptra injections last?

The results after Sculptra injection can last up to approximately 2 years, provided that the appropriate amount is injected as assessed and recommended by the doctor.

How many Sculptra injections are needed to see results?

For optimal skin transformation and results, Sculptra injections are recommended to be administered in approximately 3 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

Can Sculptra be injected along with other procedures?

Sculptra injections can be combined with other procedures. If you wish to do this, it is recommended to wait approximately one month after the initial injection. It is also recommended to combine it with procedures such as Hifu, Thermage, and Ulthera.

Where is the best place to get Sculptra injections?

Choosing the right location for your Sculptra injection is equally important. Here are some techniques for selecting a safe location for your Sculptra injection:

Choose a clinic that has a valid 11-digit clinic registration license.
It's a clean, standardized clinic that's conveniently located and offers services at multiple branches.
Every step, from consultation and pre-injection assessment to the injection of Sculptra, is performed only by expert physicians.
Use only genuine Sculptra products. You can verify this by checking that the product box is intact, unopened, has a monogram sticker, a scannable QR code on the box, and the FDA registration number, along with Thai-language documentation.
There are reliable reviews from real Sculptra patients to help you make your decision.
Sculptra injections are currently on promotion and at reasonable prices.
Follow-up is performed after the injection.

How many CCs of Sculptra injection are needed?

For Sculptra injections, the doctor will generally start with one vial, or 10 cc, and subsequent injections will be scheduled 4-6 weeks apart. The number of injections will vary depending on each case and the doctor's assessment, but most commonly it is 3 sessions.

Because the amount of Sculptra required for collagen stimulation in each patient depends on the doctor's assessment of each individual's problem, and since one vial of Sculptra contains 10 cc, the amount of Sculptra used will vary depending on the patient's skin condition.

How does injecting Sculptra to stimulate collagen differ from taking collagen supplements?

When collagen is consumed, the body only absorbs about half of the amount taken. Therefore, achieving noticeable results from collagen consumption for skin care may take time, as it takes at least 3 months for the body to fully absorb collagen.

Especially for those seeking visible results, oral collagen supplements may not show as noticeable effects as Sculptra injections, which are injected directly into problem areas to stimulate collagen production. This results in internal restructuring of the skin, addressing issues of sagging, loss of elasticity, and wrinkles, leading to more pronounced and noticeable results.

conclude

Sculptra is a popular beauty trend that safely stimulates collagen production and has been used for a long time in other countries. It's known for its long-lasting results and, importantly, the fact that even after the collagen is eliminated from the body, the newly formed collagen continues to strengthen the skin's structure.

However, it is crucial to choose a Sculptra injection administered by a skilled and experienced physician. This ensures that the appropriate dosage can be accurately assessed. Importantly, the injection should be given at a reputable clinic that meets safety standards and uses genuine, verifiable Sculptra products.

refer

Cleveland Clinic. (2023, Aug 12). Sculptra.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24676-sculptra

Health and Society. (2022, Sept). Effect of Sculptra.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363240508_EFFECTS_OF_SCULPTRAR_INJECTABLE_POLY-L-LACTIC_ACID_FOR_FACIAL_REJUVENATION_A_SYSTEMATIC_REVIEW

Article from Romrawin Clinic.