Written by PA-C Jennifer Hanley, Revive Encinitas
In aesthetic anti-aging treatments, biostimulators have emerged as a popular option for those seeking natural-looking, long-lasting results. With their ability to stimulate the production of collagen, elastin, and other vital components of the skin that naturally degrade over time, these treatments offer a unique approach to rejuvenating the skin and restoring youthful skin structure and function. In this blog, we’ll explore how injectable biostimulators work, and how they differ from traditional dermal fillers. We’ll also delve into the specifics of two leading options available at our med spa: Sculptra and Radiesse.
Biostimulators: How They Work
Biostimulators, as the name suggests, work by stimulating the body to produce its own tissue. Collagen and elastin are vital proteins that provide structure and elasticity to the skin, but their production naturally declines with age. Collagen and elastin synthesis can be kickstarted by injecting biostimulators into targeted areas, leading to gradual and natural-looking improvements in skin texture, firmness, and volume.
Unlike traditional dermal fillers, which primarily add volume by filling in wrinkles and creases, biostimulators offer a more comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation. Rather than simply masking signs of aging, they address the underlying cause by encouraging the skin to regenerate from within.
Biostimulators vs. Dermal Fillers: Understanding the Difference
While both biostimulators and dermal fillers are used to enhance facial aesthetics, results are achieved through different mechanisms:
- Dermal Fillers: These injectable gels typically contain hyaluronic acid, a substance that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, providing instant volume and wrinkle smoothing. Dermal fillers are ideal for contouring facial features and for targeting specific areas of volume loss or fine lines, offering immediate results that can last from several months to over a year, depending on the product used.
- Biostimulators: Unlike dermal fillers, biostimulators do not provide much in the way of immediate results. Instead, they work gradually over time, stimulating collagen and elastin to restore the skin’s natural scaffolding to provide support for tighter, more youthful skin. While the effects of biostimulators may take several weeks to months to become apparent, the results are often longer-lasting, with improvements continuing to develop for months after treatment.
Sculptra:
Sculptra is a popular biostimulator known for its ability to replenish lost skin volume and improve skin texture and quality. Its active ingredient, poly-L-lactic acid, works by stimulating collagen production deep within the dermis, gradually restoring skin firmness and addressing signs of aging such as wrinkles and folds. Sculptra is particularly well-suited for treating larger areas of volume loss, such as sunken cheeks or hollow temples, and can also be used to enhance overall facial contours for a more youthful appearance.
Radiesse:
Radiesse is a popular dermal filler that in a dilute form, acts as an incredible biostimulator whereby calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres stimulate collagen, elastin, and other components of the extracellular matrix of the skin to regenerate tissues, and improve overall skin quality and function. By promoting a fuller, smoother, and more hydrated appearance, dilute Radiesse effectively combats signs of aging, leaving skin visibly plumper and rejuvenated. The unique composition of Radiesse allows it to provide both immediate and long-term results, with effects lasting up to a year or more.
Biostimulators represent a revolutionary approach to facial rejuvenation, offering natural-looking results that improve over time. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, these injectables address the underlying causes of aging, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. Here at Revive, we offer injectable biostimulator options including Sculptra and dilute Radiesse, each tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients. Whether you’re looking to restore lost skin volume, minimize wrinkles, or rejuvenate your skin, biostimulators may be the perfect solution for achieving your aesthetic goals.
