So you’d like to add a little volume, contour, or definition to an area of your face? Maybe you want to plump up your lips or add a whisper of under-eye filler to help you look more rested or refreshed. Whatever your focus, dermal fillers may be the answer. But which dermal filler does what? Not all are created equal, at least in terms of treating specific areas of your face. Two of the leading fillers on the market are Sculptra vs Juvederm. While both are considered dermal fillers, they are very different in formulation and effect. How do you know which is right for you? What’s the difference between Sculptra and Juvederm? We hope to provide some insight into the most often-asked questions regarding Sculptra vs. Juvederm.
What is Juvederm?
Juvederm is a dermal filler brand that uses hyaluronic acid as its main ingredient (many skincare providers will refer to it as HA for short). While the word acid might sound unappealing, HA is a naturally occurring substance produced in our bodies. It is found in the skin, connective tissue, and joints. In the skin, it is an essential component that helps bind water molecules, keeping your skin hydrated, thereby appearing plump, supple, and smooth. As you age, your body produces less and less HA, causing the skin to feel dry and appear sallow, saggy, and wrinkled.
What is Sculptra?
Sculptra is a bit different than a Juvederm filler in that it is synthetic. Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid filler. Poly-L-lactic acid helps promote collagen development in the body, which takes time. Results appear gradually. So while it works to plump up the area in which it is injected, resulting in natural-looking volume, it requires several treatments to achieve the full effect. Collagen is essentially the scaffolding that gives structure to your skin. By increasing collagen production, you naturally enhance the look of the skin.
When Is Juvederm Typically Used?
Juvederm has several density levels, making it a versatile dermal injectable for just about any area of the face. It is most commonly used around the temples, cheeks, jawline, lips and to fill in smile lines.
When is Sculptra Typically Used?
The most common areas Sculptra is typically used is around the jowls, cheeks, chin, and temples.
Instant vs. Eventual Results
Juvederm is an instant result injection. This is what makes it so desirable. You can come in to see us, and if we determine Juvederm is the way to go, it can be injected to give you the desired results right away (although it is possible to experience some swelling, bruising, and redness following the injection, this will subside in one to two weeks).
Juvederm fillers deliver instant results. That’s what makes it so appealing, especially if your goal is to add immediate volume to certain areas of your face or you have specific corrections you would like to address. It is also desirable if you have a special event and want to look more youthful and refreshed. Most Juvederm fillers last on average between 9-16 months, depending on the product used. Your body will naturally metabolize the HA filler over time. Of course, you can extend the results of your Juvederm treatment by maintaining regular treatments.
Sculptra, as mentioned, develops over time. In reality, it isn’t a “dermal” filler at all; it is a collagen stimulator. Following the injection, you will not see instant results, and it will be gradual, taking place over approximately two months.
Some patients prefer the natural, more subtle progression revealed over time rather than the instant and recognizable change. With Sculptra, most patients require two to three treatments for a few months. Results are long-lasting, upwards of several years, and maybe repeated to maintain.
Which is Right For You, Juvederm or Sculptra?
Both Juvederm and Sculptra are versatile fillers, offering balance and correction to similar areas of the face with a long history of excellent results. They are an effective, non-surgical solution to achieving and restoring a more youthful appearance. Determining which one is best for you may be as simple as what your expectations are.
Are you interested in immediate results? If so, Juvederm is your filler of choice. And should you have an adverse reaction to the Juvederm filler, it is possible to dissolve it. However, if a more gradual approach is your preference, naturally boosting your body to produce the effects of volume with longer-lasting results? Then Sculptra is the way to go.
There is no wrong answer. It’s about personal preference. Still undecided?
Don’t worry, our skilled providers have years of experience performing Juvederm and Sculptra treatments. They will gladly guide you through the process, discussing each product in more detail, reviewing your medical history and your lifestyle, all of which may help determine which product is best for you. We are here for you.
Discover The Best Treatment For Your Skincare Needs
Whether your goal is to achieve fuller, more robust lips or you would like to plump up your cheeks, a dermal filler may be the way to go. However, there may also be alternative methods to consider to achieve your goals. Our team of skin health experts at The Skin Center By CPS is here to help address your skincare questions and concerns.
The best way to determine whether Sculptra, Juvederm, or other skin care products are suitable for you is by simply giving us a call. We offer complimentary consultations. Together we will discuss your skin health concerns, analyze the current condition of your skin, review any allergies and past treatments, and recommend treatment options that would best help you achieve your goals. It all begins with a phone call. Please schedule your appointment today with one of our skin health professionals at The Skin Center By CPS and take the first step to better skin health.