Both Sculptra and Radiesse are biostimulatory dermal fillers designed to enhance volume and improve skin quality by stimulating collagen production. However, they differ in composition, longevity, and areas of use.
| Feature | Sculptra (PLLA) | Radiesse (CaHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) | Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres |
| Mechanism of Action | Collagen stimulator (gradual volume restoration over months) | Collagen stimulator & filler (immediate volume with long-term collagen stimulation) |
| Immediate Volume Effect? | ❌ No (gradual improvement over 3–6 months) | ✅ Yes (initial filling effect, then collagen builds over time) |
| Longevity | 2–3 years | 12–18 months |
| Best for | Deep facial volume loss (cheeks, temples, jawline), skin tightening | Midface volume loss, jawline contouring, hand rejuvenation |
| Texture & Feel | Thin, liquid-like at first; builds collagen over time | Thicker, provides immediate structure |
| FDA-Approved Areas | Face (off-label for body areas) | Face & Hands (off-label for body contouring) |
| Dilution Variability | Can be diluted for skin tightening & biostimulation | Typically used as a structured filler but can be hyper-diluted for skin improvement |
| Risks & Side Effects | Temporary swelling, bruising, nodule formation (if improperly placed) | Temporary swelling, bruising, potential for nodules if injected superficially |
| Reversibility | ❌ Not reversible | ❌ Not reversible |
Key Differences
- Sculptra is a gradual collagen stimulator that requires multiple sessions but lasts longer.
- Radiesse provides instant volume and also stimulates collagen but doesn’t last as long.
- Radiesse can be used in the hands, while Sculptra is mainly for the face (though both are used off-label for skin tightening when diluted).
- Sculptra is more liquid and works over time, whereas Radiesse is thicker and provides immediate support.
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