Sculptra® or Polynucleotide? Your Guide to Skin Rejuvenation!

Achieving youthful, radiant skin is easier than ever with advancements in non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments. Among these, injectable options are increasingly popular—but with so many choices available, how do you determine which one best suits your needs?

Two of the most sought-after treatments, Sculptra® and polynucleotide injections, both offer skin rejuvenation but function in distinct ways. Sculptra® gradually restores lost facial volume by stimulating collagen production, providing long-lasting structural support. Polynucleotide injections, on the other hand, enhance deep hydration, accelerate skin repair, and improve elasticity at a cellular level.

If you’re deciding between Sculptra® and polynucleotide treatments, this guide will provide a detailed comparison of their benefits, longevity, ideal candidates, and key differences, helping you make the best choice for your aesthetic goals.

What is Sculptra®?

Sculptra® is a collagen-stimulating injection that restores facial volume and enhances skin texture by gradually increasing collagen production. Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers, which provide immediate volume, Sculptra® works over time to address fine lines, sagging, and volume loss for a more natural and long-lasting result.

Its key ingredient, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), is a biodegradable compound that has been used in medical treatments for over 20 years. By stimulating natural collagen growth, Sculptra® strengthens skin structure and improves firmness, delivering subtle yet lasting improvements.

At Vancouver Laser and Skin Care Centre, we offer Sculptra® as part of our advanced non-surgical aesthetic treatments. Our experienced team can assess your skin concerns and help determine if Sculptra® is the right choice for you.

How does Sculptra® work?

Understanding how Sculptra® works for facial volume loss is key to appreciating its long-term benefits. Sculptra® contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which stimulates the production of new collagen fibers. When injected into the skin, PLLA particles create a supportive framework that encourages collagen growth. As the body naturally absorbs these particles, the newly generated collagen enhances skin volume and elasticity.

Unlike traditional fillers that provide immediate but short-lived results, Sculptra® works gradually, delivering a natural increase in facial volume. Its effects can last up to two years, making it a long-term solution for restoring youthful contours.

What are polynucleotides?

Polynucleotides represent a major advancement in aesthetic medicine, transforming how we address skin aging and rejuvenation. These long chains of nucleotides, derived from purified salmon DNA, play a crucial role in cellular repair and regeneration.

In cosmetic treatments, polynucleotides harness these natural healing properties to enhance skin health. They stimulate collagen and elastin production—proteins essential for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. As collagen levels decline with age, fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging become more noticeable. Polynucleotide injections work at a cellular level to counteract these effects, improving skin texture, tone, and overall hydration.

Note: At Vancouver Laser and Skin Care Centre, we do not offer polynucleotide-based therapies. However, we do offer a variety of other cutting-edge treatments to help rejuvenate and refresh your skin.

How do polynucleotides work?

Polynucleotide injections stimulate fibroblasts in the skin, triggering a range of regenerative benefits:

• Increased cell turnover – New, healthy skin cells replace older, damaged ones, promoting a fresher and more youthful appearance.
• Boosts collagen production – Stimulates natural collagen synthesis, enhancing skin radiance while reducing scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.
• Enhances hyaluronic acid (HA) levels – Improves skin hydration, making it smoother, plumper, and less prone to dryness.
• Heals inflamed and sun-damaged skin – Regulates melanin production and strengthens blood vessels, helping to reduce inflammation, UV damage, and dark spots.

Key Differences Between Sculptra® and Polynucleotide Treatments
Feature	Sculptra®	Polynucleotide Treatments
Main Ingredient	Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)	Polynucleotides From Salmon DNA
Primary Function	Restores Lost Facial Volume by Stimulating Collagen Production	Promotes Skin Regeneration, Hydration, and Elasticity
Treatment Focus	Deeper Wrinkles, Hollow Areas, Facial Volume Loss	Skin Texture, Elasticity, and Hydration
Results Timeline	Gradual, Appears Over 3-6 Months	Visible Improvements Within Weeks
Longevity	Up to 2+ Years	6-12 Months
Best For	Facial Contouring, Lifting, and Volume Enhancement	Skin Rejuvenation, Hydration, and Repair

Which one is right for you?

Choose Sculptra® if you want to restore volume, reduce deep wrinkles, and enhance facial contours with long-lasting results.

Choose polynucleotide treatments if your goal is to improve skin hydration, repair damage, and enhance overall skin quality.

Both treatments address signs of aging, but the best choice depends on your specific skin concerns and goals. In the next sections, we’ll compare their treatment areas, benefits, longevity, side effects, and ideal candidates.

Sculptra® Treatment Areas

Sculptra® is designed to rebuild collagen and restore volume in targeted areas. It is injected into the skin’s dermal layer, where most collagen is found, helping to improve facial contours and firmness. The specific injection sites depend on individual volume goals.

Common facial treatment areas include:

• Temples
• Outer bony contours
• Cheekbones
• Chin
• Jawline

By restoring lost collagen, Sculptra® enhances facial structure, creating a more youthful and lifted appearance.

Beyond facial treatments, Sculptra® can also be used on the body to improve skin texture and firmness in areas such as:

• Buttocks (for enhancement and lifting)
• Sagging underarm skin
• Wrinkles above the knees
• Crepey skin on the chest

Note: Sculptra® injections should only be performed by a licensed skin care provider to ensure safe and effective results.

Polynucleotide Injections Treatment Areas

Polynucleotide injections improve skin texture, elasticity, and overall function, making them a versatile option for facial and body treatments. They are particularly popular for strengthening and revitalizing the delicate skin under the eyes, helping to reduce fine lines and improve firmness.

Common facial treatment areas include:

• Under the eyes
• Cheekbones
• Forehead
• Jawline
• Around the mouth

In addition to facial applications, polynucleotide injections can be used to improve skin quality in areas with loose or aging skin, such as:

• Abdomen
• Above the knees
• Décolletage
• Inner arms
• Neck
• Jawline

By deeply hydrating and stimulating cellular repair, polynucleotide treatments promote firmer, healthier, and more youthful-looking skin across multiple areas.

Benefits of Sculptra® 

Sculptra® is a long-lasting, non-surgical treatment that effectively reduces signs of aging and restores facial volume. Here’s why it stands out:

• Restores Facial Volume – Helps replenish lost volume in the face due to aging or weight loss, lifting sagging skin and creating a refreshed appearance.
• Stimulates Collagen Production – Unlike traditional fillers, Sculptra® boosts natural collagen production over time, enhancing skin structure and firmness for long-term results.
• Non-Surgical and Minimally Invasive – Provides facelift-like improvements without the need for incisions or extended recovery time. The treatment is performed in-office, allowing a quick return to daily activities.
• Long-Lasting Results – Effects can last up to two years or more, making it a reliable option for sustained facial rejuvenation.
• Natural-Looking Effects – Gradual improvements ensure a subtle, natural enhancement without an overfilled appearance.
• Versatile Treatment Areas – Can be used on various facial areas, including the cheeks, temples, nasolabial folds, and jawline, allowing for comprehensive anti-aging benefits in a single session.

Benefits of Polynucleotide Treatments

Polynucleotide treatments enhance skin health by addressing key concerns such as aging, hydration, and elasticity. Here are the primary benefits:

• Improves Skin Texture – Smooths roughness, evens out skin tone, and enhances overall skin feel for a softer, more refined appearance.
• Boosts Hydration for a Fuller Look – Helps the skin retain moisture, making it plumper and more hydrated while reducing dryness and fine lines.
• Reduces Signs of Aging – Minimizes wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging by stimulating collagen and elastin production, restoring firmness and resilience.
• Increases Elasticity and Firmness – Strengthens the skin’s natural elasticity, especially in delicate areas like under the eyes and neck.
• Delivers Natural and Long-Lasting Results – Provides subtle, natural-looking improvements that blend seamlessly with the skin for a refreshed, youthful appearance.

Number of Sessions Required

The number of sessions needed for Sculptra® and polynucleotide treatments varies based on individual goals and desired outcomes. Here’s what to expect:

Sculptra® 

Typically requires three sessions, spaced three to five months apart. The gradual collagen stimulation process means results take longer to appear but last significantly longer. While fewer sessions are needed compared to polynucleotide treatments, the full effect develops over time, ensuring natural and long-lasting improvements.

Polynucleotide Treatments 

Usually involves three to four sessions, spaced two to four weeks apart. It works faster than Sculptra®, with visible improvements in hydration, skin texture, and elasticity appearing more quickly. While it requires more sessions, the quicker onset of results makes it ideal for those seeking faster skin rejuvenation.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations  

Both Sculptra® and polynucleotide treatments are generally safe but may cause temporary side effects, including:

• Redness at the injection site
• Swelling and mild bruising, which typically subside within a few hours to days
• Tenderness or slight discomfort immediately after the procedure

These effects are mild and should not interfere with daily activities. Following your practitioner’s aftercare instructions can help ensure optimal healing and results.

Sculptra®-Specific Risks  

Sculptra® is a reliable treatment for restoring facial volume, but certain risks may arise, particularly with improper administration:

• Nodule Formation – Small lumps may develop under the skin if the product is injected too superficially or unevenly. These can often be massaged out but may require additional treatment.
• Uneven Volume Distribution – Poor injection technique can lead to asymmetrical results, emphasizing the importance of choosing a skilled professional.

Polynucleotide-Specific Risks  

Polynucleotide treatments are generally well-tolerated but present notable risk of allergic reactions. Since polynucleotides are derived from salmon DNA, individuals with fish or marine allergies may experience adverse reactions. If you have such allergies, notify your provider before undergoing treatment.

General Safety Considerations  

To minimize complications, both treatments should only be performed by licensed and experienced professionals in a medical setting. A thorough consultation is essential to assess your medical history, potential allergies, and treatment goals.

Are Polynucleotide injections safer than Sculptra®?

Both treatments are considered safe when administered correctly. However, Polynucleotide injections may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to marine-based ingredients. Sculptra® carries a rare risk of nodule formation if injected improperly.

Choosing a qualified practitioner is key to ensuring safe and effective results.

Conclusion

Sculptra® and polynucleotide treatments both offer effective solutions for non-surgical skin rejuvenation, but the best choice depends on your specific goals and skin concerns.

Choose Sculptra® if you want to restore facial volume, reduce deep wrinkles, and address sagging caused by collagen loss. This treatment stimulates collagen production gradually, delivering long-lasting, natural-looking results that can last for years with just 2-3 sessions.

Choose polynucleotide treatments if your primary focus is improving skin hydration, texture, and overall health. These injections work at a cellular level, offering quicker results in 3-4 sessions, leaving the skin refreshed and radiant.

At Vancouver Laser and Skin Care Centre, we offer Sculptra® to help you achieve firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. While we do not provide polynucleotide treatments, our team can recommend alternative options tailored to your skincare needs.The right treatment depends on your desired results, timeline, and skin type. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about choosing the best injectable for your skin.