Sculptra and Juvéderm: One of These Things is Not Like the Other
- Posted on: Jan 15 2021
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Dermal filler injections account for the vast majority of services that are popular today. Fillers correct the signs of aging that occur when the skin, bone, fatty tissue, and muscle become thin and loose. These products are also commonly used to add shape to various areas of the face, such as the lips, chin, jawline, and cheeks. Most dermal fillers work by increasing the volume of the deeper layers of skin. Juvéderm is one example of this type of filler. Another type, Sculptra, fills tissue with poly-L-lactic acid. It is referred to as a dermal filler, but it works quite differently. Here, we discuss the two.
About Juvéderm
Juvéderm is a family of dermal filler products. Each is carefully formulated with various particle-sizes of hyaluronic acid. When injected beneath the skin, hyaluronic acid binds to water molecules, increasing volume and hydration for several months. Common areas of use include under the eyes, the cheeks, lips, jawline, nose, around the nose and mouth, and sometimes the forehead.
Many people appreciate that Juvéderm offers them options. Lighter fillers provide fullness and softness and may last 6 to 12 months. Denser fillers, like Voluma, provide structure and firmness that can last up to two years. An additional benefit of hyaluronic acid is that, if you were not completely satisfied with your results, this chemical can be dissolved.
About Sculptra
Sculptra is an injectable filler product made from poly-L-lactic acid. It is categorized as a filler because there is no other classification for this FDA-approved drug. We call it a collagen-stimulator, though. Collagen is the structural protein that is known for healing cuts and scrapes. It is also the protein that keeps the skin firm and supple. Collagen is broken down by many factors, including sun exposure and, (gasp!) wine. Collagen also diminishes with age simply because the body does not make nearly as much in adulthood as it does in the first 20 years of life. The introduction of poly-L-lactic acid in areas of depletion reverses this problem.
Results
Because Sculptra is formulated to increase collagen production, it does not achieve the immediate results that are possible with Juvéderm. It takes 2 to 3 Sculptra treatment sessions over about 2 months to achieve a noticeable outcome. Studies indicate that the improvements achieved with Sculptra can last at least 2 to 3 years with minimal touch-ups. Juvéderm injections do provide the satisfaction of immediate rejuvenation. However, this product does not affect natural collagen production.
This comparison of Juvéderm and Sculptra does not suggest that one product is better than the other. No, each offers unique benefits and may be recommended for specific concerns. To see which injectable is ideal for your goals, schedule a consultation at our Sarasota office. Call (941) 379-6647.
Posted in: Dermal Fillers
