Boost Natural Collagen, Improve Skin Quality, and Bring out your Youthful Glow
Collagen is a strong, flexible fibrous type of protein that is found throughout our bodies, including our bones, muscles, tendons and in the middle or dermis layer of the skin.Under a microscope, collagen looks like bands of rope bound together or stacked logs. It acts as the skin's support structure or scaffolding that helps maintain skin’s shape. In fact, 70% of our skin is composed of collagen.
As we age, our body’s collagen production decreases. The cells in our body that produce collagen, called fibroblasts, are no longer able to produce it as efficiently as they once did, and existing collagen becomes fragmented, bent and frayed. Age-related collagen loss weakens the skin’s inner structure, reducing its ability to maintain collagen, elasticity and moisture. Gradually, skin loses its youthful bounce, leading to lines, wrinkles, and folds, as well as a loss of skin volume and support.
Think of collagen like springs in a mattress. Over time, the springs weaken and the mattress on top starts to sag and crease. Similar changes in our skin happen as a result of both natural aging and sun exposure.
Fun Fact: After the age of 20, you lose 1% of collagen per year!
We hear so much about collagen- But what is it exactly?
What is Sculptra?
Stimulate Collagen, Restore Volume, and Enhance Your Natural Beauty
Sculptra Aesthetic works subtly and gradually over time within the deep dermis layer of the skin, correcting shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds for a more youthful-looking appearance.
Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, which work immediately upon injection to fill in lines, wrinkles and folds, Sculptra Aesthetic is made from Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which helps stimulate your skin’s own natural collagen production over time, helping to reinforce skin’s inner structure and increase facial volume that has been lost to aging improving facial wrinkles and skin tightness. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a biodegradable substance that has been proven safe and has been used in medical products, including dissolvable sutures, for more than 30 years.
The typical treatment regimen for Sculptra Aesthetic consists of a starting protocol which entails one vial per decade of life and thereafter to maintenance volume of one vial per year. Results appear gradually over a period of a few months, and are long-lasting, up to 2 years.
When will I see results?
Most clinical study participants saw results as soon as 1 month, with sustained results for up to 2 years. Typical treatment is 3 sessions spaced at least 3 to 4 weeks apart.
What should I do after treatment?
Massage the treated area to evenly distribute Sculptra. A good rule of thumb is 5-5-5: Massage the injected area for 5 minutes, 5 times a day, for 5 days in a row.
How many treatments will I need?
On average, you will have 2 to 3 treatment sessions over the course of a few months. We typically recommend a vial per decade of life, 6-8 weeks apart. The number of injections at each session will vary based on the treatment plan determined by you and your aesthetic provider.
What do I do to prepare for my treatment?
Avoid dental work for 2 weeks prior and after your treatment.
Avoid taking St. John’s Wort, high dose of Vitamin E supplements, omega – 3’s, fish oil, Aspirin and other NSAIDS ( Non-steroidal Anti- Inflmmatory medications such as ibuprofen, Motril, Aleve, and Advil). These agents may increase bruising and bleeding at the injection site.
You may take arnica capsules 1-2 days prior to treatment to reduce the possibility of post treatment bruising and swelling and continue to take arnica for 3-4 days after treatment.
If you like pinapple, EAT UP! Pineapple contains an enzyme called Bromelain, which is found in juice and stem of the fruit. The anti-inflammatory properties of Bromelain help reduce bruising and swelling.
Frequently Asked QUESTIONS
What are the possible side effects?
Side effects reported include injection site pain, redness, bruising, tenderness, itching and lumps, bleeding, and swelling. Small bumps under the skin can sometimes be noticeable when pressing on the treated area. Larger lumps, with or without inflammation, have also been reported.
