Biostimulators

Collagen is the protein that gives skin its firmness and structure, and the body makes less of it as we age. This is one reason skin can look thinner or less supported over time. Biostimulators are designed to work with your skin’s own repair processes. Rather than simply filling a line, they are designed to prompt the skin to produce new collagen in the treated area.

We offer two biostimulators.

Sculptra (PLLA)

Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid, a material the body gradually breaks down. It is used to restore lost volume and support skin quality across broader areas, such as the temples, cheeks and jawline. The change develops slowly, so a course of treatments is typically recommended.

Radiesse (CaHA)

Radiesse contains tiny calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres in a gel. It gives some lift straight away, then continues to stimulate collagen as the gel is absorbed. It can add structure, for example along the jawline, or be diluted and spread more thinly to support skin firmness.

Neither product is used in the lips. At your consultation, your practitioner explains which product, if either, suits your face and your goals.

Biostimulators can suit adults who have noticed a gradual loss of firmness or volume and would prefer a subtle change that builds over time. They are a longer-term option, so they suit people who are happy to wait weeks rather than see the full effect on the day.

They are not suitable if you are under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a skin infection or cold sore in the area. Some medical conditions, including certain autoimmune conditions and a tendency to form raised scars, and some medicines may also mean treatment is not right for you. Your practitioner goes through your medical history in full before treating you.

1. Before your treatment

   Your practitioner asks about your health, medicines and goals, looks at your skin and explains the options, the likely number of sessions, possible side effects and the cost.

2. During your treatment

   The skin is cleansed and the product is placed with a fine needle or a blunt cannula. Local anaesthetic is typically used to keep you comfortable.

3. Afterwards

   Some swelling, redness, tenderness or bruising is common and typically settles within a few days. Most people return to everyday activities straight away.

4. Your course

   If more than one session is planned, they are typically four to six weeks apart, so your practitioner can see how your skin responds.

• Avoid touching, pressing or wearing make-up on the treated area for the rest of the day.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms and alcohol for 24 hours.
• After Sculptra, you are typically asked to massage the area for five minutes, five times a day, for five days. Your practitioner shows you how.
• Wear a high-factor sunscreen and avoid other facial treatments for about two weeks unless your practitioner advises otherwise.
• If you notice any change to your vision, call 999 or go to A&E straight away, then let us know.
• Contact us straight away if you notice pain that is getting worse, a pale, dusky or blotchy patch of skin, or signs of infection such as heat, spreading redness or fever: call the salon on 01925 726 688 during opening hours. In an emergency, call 999.