Collagen stimulators, also known as biostimulators, are substances that naturally stimulate the body to produce its own collagen. As we age, collagen production decreases significantly. Starting at around age 20, the body loses about 1-1.5% of collagen each year, with production levels dropping to just 20-30% by age 30. This reduction leads to the development of wrinkles, sagging skin, dryness, and deep lines if not properly treated.
At The Standard Aesthetic Clinic, we prioritize and excel in skin rejuvenation treatments to help patients maintain their youthful appearance for as long as possible. We carefully select high-quality, standardized products to ensure the best results for our patients. The collagen stimulators we use include two renowned brands:
- Sculptra
- Radiesse
Both of these collagen stimulators, Sculptra and Radiesse, have been in the market for over 20 years. The medical team is confident in the quality and safety of these products, which have proven to be effective in stimulating collagen production in the skin.
Sculptra vs. Radiesse: How They Differ
Sculptra
Sculptra is the world’s first collagen stimulator and the only one approved by the USFDA. It stimulates the production of Collagen Type 1, which is the most crucial type of collagen for our skin, with a significant increase of up to 66.5% observed three months post-injection. This makes Sculptra highly effective in enhancing skin quality, increasing elasticity, and restoring radiance. It tightens the skin, improves overall skin health, and provides a deep rejuvenation from within, naturally reversing the signs of aging. Studies have shown that the effects of Sculptra can last over two years. With more than 50 research studies and over 10,000 subjects supporting its efficacy and safety, Sculptra has been used extensively for over 25 years in 40 countries worldwide. It is fully biodegradable and leaves no residues in the body.
Sculptra contains a compound known as PLLA (Poly-L-Lactic Acid), which is injected deep into the skin. PLLA works with the surrounding facial tissues to stimulate and regenerate natural collagen production. As collagen production is triggered, the skin begins to restore its structure and volume, leading to continuous improvement in the appearance of wrinkles and other imperfections. The PLLA particles in Sculptra are patented, ensuring a manufacturing process that selects particle sizes for maximum safety and efficacy. This makes Sculptra distinct from other PLLA products available in the market.
Duration of Sculptra Treatment Results
The results from Sculptra treatments gradually improve over time and can last up to 25 months post-injection.
Recommended Number of Treatment Sessions
Typically, it is recommended to undergo 2-3 treatment sessions every 6-8 weeks. The changes will occur gradually as collagen production is stimulated and the skin undergoes rejuvenation.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
- Avoid medications or supplements that thin the blood, such as aspirin, vitamin E, and fish oil, for at least 2 weeks before the injection to prevent potential bruising.
- Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages for 1-3 days before the injection.
- Ensure you are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Consult with your doctor if you have any chronic illnesses or are taking any medications before undergoing the treatment.
Post-Treatment Care Recommendations for Optimal Results
- Apply a cold gel pack to the treated area during the first 24 hours to help reduce swelling.
- Avoid makeup and steam/sauna sessions for 24 hours.
- Minimize exposure to sunlight and UV rays until any swelling and redness have subsided.
Radiesse
Radiesse is a type of collagen stimulator made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres. In a 1.5 cc syringe, Radiesse contains 30% CaHA, comprising phosphate ions and calcium, which are naturally found in the human body. The remaining 70% is a carrier gel, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, which delivers the CaHA to the injection site.
Radiesse has received FDA approval from the EU (2004), the US (2006), and Thailand, ensuring its safety and effectiveness as a collagen stimulator.
How Radiesse Works
The CaHA microspheres in Radiesse are tiny, measuring 25-45 microns. When injected into the skin, these microspheres attract fibroblast cells, which adhere to the CaHA and stimulate collagen production. Radiesse can stimulate the production of five essential skin components:
- Collagen Type 1: Increases by up to 150%, providing essential skin structure.
- Collagen Type 3: Increases by up to 250%, abundant in youthful skin, working alongside Collagen Type 1.
- Elastin: Increases by up to 260%, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing wrinkle formation.
- Proteoglycan: Important for water retention, maintaining skin hydration.
- Angiogenesis: Promotes the formation of new blood vessels to nourish the skin, contributing to overall skin health.
Radiesse’s ability to stimulate both Collagen Type 1 and Type 3 makes it particularly effective for rejuvenating the skin and maintaining a youthful appearance. Radiesse has been used for over 20 years by physicians worldwide, supported by more than 250 studies, with over 15 million syringes used globally (as of July 2023) in more than 85 countries.
Immediate Results:
- Smoother, plumper, and firmer skin.
- Reduced appearance of wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful look.
- Results can last up to 2 years.
Short-Term Results (within 1 month):
- CaHA microspheres stimulate fibroblasts to produce new collagen as the gel carrier dissolves.
- Improved skin fullness and firmness, with enhanced facial contours.
Long-Term Results (6 months and beyond):
- Newly produced collagen lasts approximately 18-24 months, maintaining a youthful appearance over a prolonged period.
(Individual results may vary.)
Sculptra vs. Radiesse: Which Product to Choose?
Since both products are biostimulators, they share similar functions but also have distinct features. They can address issues with both common and unique points. Therefore, the experienced medical team at The Standard Aesthetic Clinic is ready to provide consultations and recommend the most suitable option for each patient’s specific problems. Personalized treatment plans are designed to achieve the most effective results.
Sculptra
