Sculptra®: discover the benefits of this active on the skin

Nowadays, there is the possibility of slowing down the pace of skin aging through treatment with biostimulators – one of the most renowned is Sculptra®. To know the main characteristics of this procedure, clarify doubts and present effective care, we consulted Dr. André Adriano (CRM-SC 14956 | RQE 12393) and Dr. Simone Tavares Veloso (CRM-RJ 552181 | RQE 11249), specialists in Dermatology and members of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.

What is Sculptra®?

The definition for Sculptra® is an injectable substance composed of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) with the purpose of treating skin aging through the biostimulation formula, therefore, collagen starts to be produced again in the body. “This substance is totally compatible with our body, being a sterile and medical product”, explains André. The mechanism of action of Sculptra® consists of the “stimulation of fibroblast cells, responsible for the synthesis of collagen and elastin in response to subclinical tissue inflammation”, highlights Simone.

What is it for?

The product’s indications, according to experts, are to soften the signs of aging, sagging, wrinkles, furrows, cellulite and scars on the skin. The product’s effects last an average of 25 months, restoring the skin’s firmness and strength. The number of bottles needed depends on your age and the appearance of your skin. In addition, the patient must undergo the aesthetic procedure once a year to maintain the results already acquired.

The product is applied in areas such as the face, décolleté, neck, arms, hands, abdomen, buttocks, thighs and knees – with the exception of the area around the eyes, nose and lips. “In the case of facial fat loss, it is applied to the contour of the face, being common in athletes and people who have lost a lot of weight”, explains André. The effectiveness of the product “is attributed as long as the different techniques used are respected and prepared properly”, comments Simone.

Contraindications and risks

Contraindications are for people with autoimmune disease, active infection, skin injury, areas treated with permanent silicone and/or polymethylmethacrylate filling, anxiety for immediate results, pregnant women, lactating women and children. Also, avoid the procedure if you take aspirin, vitamin E, immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatories, blood thinners, and/or fish oil capsules. Smokers may also be contraindicated for treatment.

Product alternatives

There are other alternative biostimulator methods that fulfill the same objective, among the main ones are two products, Radiesse®, which is composed of calcium hydroxyapatite, and also Ellanse®, which is composed of polycaprolactone. In the search for the association of treatments in skin rejuvenation, “the applications of hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, intense pulsed light, resurfacing with CO2 laser, radiofrequency and microfocused ultrasound can enhance the results”, informs Simone.

How much?

The average value of each bottle of Sculptra® is R$ 3,600*. According to Resolution No. 1974/2011 of the Federal Council of Medicine, professionals are prohibited from disclosing the values ​​of their services. In addition, there is variation in medical fees across the country, as stated in Resolution No. 1,836/2008 of the Federal Council of Medicine that the professional will establish the values ​​and treatments after the diagnosis made on the patient.

*Value consulted in November 2019. It may change.

How is the treatment done?

To understand how each stage of treatment proceeds, check out the medical guidelines and assistance provided by dermatologists:

• Application: it is done through needles and/or cannulas in the deeper layers of the skin together with the anesthetic. Treatment is scheduled for up to four sessions with a monthly interval.
• Duration: the average period is 25 months, but it may vary for each patient depending on the region treated.
• Recovery: There is a possibility of slight swelling and bruising from the recent session. Therefore, avoid sauna, physical activity, sun, sea bathing and/or swimming pool for at least 7 days.

After each application, it is necessary to massage the treated region with the aid of facial moisturizer about 3 times a day for a week. “Results begin to be noticed within 45 to 60 days after application”, concludes André.

Product testimonials

Are you in doubt about the post-treatment result? With that in mind, we brought the testimonies of people who performed this type of aesthetic procedure. Check it out below:

the first effectiveness

Jardel Edebran shares in detail his first session with Sculptra® applied to the face and also shows the clinic and the procedure performed by Dr. Bruna Tavares.

banishing sagging

Gigi Barreto comments about her flaccidity, highlighting what bothered her before having the Sculptra® treatment. Then, quite excited, she shows the long-awaited result.

Experience with treatment

Aurora D’Vine exposes her experience with Sculptra®, a treatment that was recommended by her dermatologist. In the video, you can also follow part of the session.

“It is important that this procedure is performed by a professional in the dermatological or surgical area, as application to the surface layer of the skin can form nodules”, warns Simone. For more tips on rejuvenation methods, check out information about glycolic acid.

By Lígia Malagrino