by Jennifer Stieber, NP
When it comes to non-surgical facial rejuvenation, choosing the right dermal filler is key to achieving natural-looking results. Sculptra and Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite) are leading contenders in the class of biostimulatory fillers. However each offers uniquely distinct benefits:
Understanding Sculptra and Radiesse
Sculptra and Radiesse are both popular biostimulatory fillers used to enhance facial contours and combat signs of aging. Sculptra, an FDA-approved poly-L-lactic acid, stimulates collagen production and gradually restores facial volume over time. On the other hand, Radiesse, made of calcium hydroxylapatite (also known as CaHa) microspheres, provides immediate correction and stimulates natural collagen production for long-lasting results.
Biostimulatory Fillers
Recent years have witnessed a surge in biostimulatory fillers over traditional hyaluronic acid fillers. Calcium hydroxylapatite, the primary component of Radiesse, has attracted significant attention lately, as evidenced by numerous newly published journal articles reflecting the medical community’s interest in its potential. Studies such as “Consensus Recommendations for the Use of Hyperdiluted Calcium Hydroxyapatite (Radiesse) as a Face and Body Biostimulatory Agent” provide valuable insights into the extensive research conducted on calcium hydroxylapatite’s safety and efficacy.
Enhanced Collagen and Elastin Production
One of the biggest differences between calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) and Sculptra is its ability to stimulate Collagen Type I (the softest and most desirable type of collagen, as contrasted with the fibrous collagen found in scar tissue) and elastin production more effectively. Scientific studies, including “Skin regeneration-related mechanisms of Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA): a systematic review” have demonstrated calcium hydroxylapatite’s superior capacity to generate collagen and elastin, resulting in firmer, smoother, and more youthful skin. The ability to generate elastin is particularly important as there are few dermatology treatments in existence that can generate new elastin. Sculptra has yet to present any studies proving its capacity to generate elastin.
Radiesse Can Treat Deep and Superficial
Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) offers versatility in terms of placement. It can be skillfully administered both very superficially in the skin and deep onto the bone (periosteum). This allows providers to not only sculpt and contour, but also improve superficial issues such as pitted acne scars, stretch marks, and fine lines. Sculptra may only be placed deep for volumization and is not safe in the superficial plane of the skin.
Unwanted Inflammatory Responses
Another crucial aspect to consider is the body’s biological response to biostimulatory fillers. While Sculptra triggers an inflammatory biological reaction, Radiesse, (calcium hydroxylapatite), elicits a physiologically normal response. This means Radiesse has a more natural integration with the body’s tissues, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. If a patient has a predisposition to allergies, inflammatory conditions, or other autoimmune conditions, this may lead them to choose Radiesse over Sculptra.
CONCLUSION
In the quest for facial and body rejuvenation, choosing a dermal filler backed by scientific research is paramount. Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), has emerged in recent years as a superior choice, supported by extensive newly published scientific literature. Its proven ability to 1. stimulate collagen and elastin, coupled with 2. versatile placement options deep and superficial, and 3. ability to boost the body’s normal physiological collagen building pathways, makes it a preferred option for patients seeking natural, safe, and long-lasting results.
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