What is a collagen stimulator and how does it work?
Collagen is a fibrous protein that gives skin structure and supports the functions of elastin and hyaluronic acid (HA), which keeps skin smooth and hydrated. The major collagen stimulator used in aesthetics is poly-L-lactic acid (PLL), also known under the brand name, Sculptra. Sculptra is a biodegradable, biocompatible, alpha-hydroxy-acid polymer, which stimulates your natural production of collagen by fibroblast proliferation.1 The microparticles of PLL work by eliciting a local subclinical inflammatory response which stimulates tissue remodeling and neocollagen production in the extracellular matrix. This results in a gradual increase in volume, improved skin texture, and increased skin thickness.2
Sculptra does not result in immediate volume increases like traditional hyaluronic acid gel fillers. Rather, over the course of multiple treatments patients can expect gradual, progressive, and natural tissue improvement.1
What can they be used for?
Sculptra, can be used to correct structural volume loss in various anatomical layers restoring volume to the deep dermis, subcutaneous tissue, and bone.1 Sculpra is an excellent choice for mid face volume restoration and is most commonly injected in the subcutaneous plane to improve nasolabial folds, malar atrophy, and preauricular skin laxity. Sculptra also results in improvement in skin tone and texture making it a great choice for rejuvenation of the neck and decolletage.
Body contouring can also be performed with Sculptra. The most common treatments include gluteal augmentation, correction of trochanteric depressions (hip dips), cellulite reduction, and correction of post surgical contouring irregularities.
What to expect during the procedure
Injection of Sculptra will occur using a combination of needle and cannula. A cannula is a blunt tipped device that once passed through the dermis (skin) allows for the product to be deposited over multiple areas with less trauma to the underlying tissue. A small amount of local anesthetic will be used to numb the cannula entry points. A needle will be needed to create an entry point for the cannula to pass through to the correct treatment plane. Lidocaine, a numbing agent, is also mixed with the Scuptra making the treatment very comfortable. The treatment will take 20-30 minutes. After treatment you will experience some slight facial swelling at the areas of injection.
What to expect after the procedure
After undergoing the procedure you will have some local facial swelling at the areas of injection. This will dissipate over 6-12 hours as your body absorbs the water mixed with Sculptra. It will be necessary to perform a gentle facial massage for 5 minutes a day for 5 days. This helps to ensure complete deposition of the Sculptra. Over the subsequent weeks your body will produce new collagen. Multiple treatments will be needed 4-6 weeks apart to optimize collagen production.
How long does it last and is it reversible?
Poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) degradation occurs over 9 months however the fibroblast proliferation and neocollagenesis persist for 2 years or longer.1 The results are not reversible as they are caused by your body’s own collagen production.
Sculptra
Poly-L-lactic acid
Sculptra is the only major brand of Poly-L-lactic acid
Sculptra works by stimulating your body’s own natural collagen production. An increase in collagen provides structural support for elastin and hyaluronic acid, both are necessary to keep skin soft and supple. Sculptra can restore facial volume and can be used for non-surgical body contouring. Results are gradual and appear natural, leaving a more youthful look without the appearance you’ve had work done.
References:
1. Friedmann DP, Fabi SG, Goldman MP. Combination of intense pulsed light, Sculptra, and Ultherapy for treatment of the aging face. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2014;13(2):109-118. doi:10.1111/jocd.12093
2. Shridharani SM, Tisch GM, Ebersole TG, Moak TN, Edwartz C. Clinical experience of poly‐L‐lactic acid injections for body contouring treatment. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2021;20(6):1655-1662. doi:10.1111/jocd.14141