Collagen Stimulators: The New Generation of Aesthetic Medicine
Collagen stimulators have revolutionized aesthetic medicine: instead of immediate volume enhancement, they focus on the body's own collagen production for natural, long-lasting results. The three leading active ingredients – Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) in Sculptra®, Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) in Radiesse®, and Poly-Caprolactone (PCL) in Ellansé® – differ fundamentally in their active ingredient, mechanism, and indication.
Sculptra® – Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)
Sculptra® by Galderma is based on Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA). PLLA microparticles stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen.
- Active Ingredient: Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)
- Duration of Action: Up to 24 months
- Onset of Action: Gradual over 4–6 weeks
- Sessions: 2–3 treatments at 4–6 week intervals
- Indications: Temples, cheeks, chin, facial volume loss
Radiesse® – Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
Radiesse® contains calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres in a gel carrier. Note: Radiesse® is currently not available in the Novamedo range. Please contact us for availability inquiries.
- Active Ingredient: Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
- Duration of Action: 12–18 months
- Onset of Action: Immediate (gel carrier) + long-term (CaHA)
- Indications: Nasolabial folds, hands, facial contouring, neck
Ellansé® – Poly-Caprolactone (PCL)
Ellansé® by Sinclair is based on Poly-Caprolactone (PCL) – a biodegradable polymer with the longest duration of action among collagen stimulators.
- Active Ingredient: Poly-Caprolactone (PCL)
- Duration of Action: Ellansé® S: 12 months | Ellansé® M: 24 months
- Onset of Action: Immediate (CMC gel) + long-term (PCL)
- Sessions: 1 treatment is sufficient
- Indications: Cheeks, chin, temples, facial structuring
Direct Comparison: Sculptra® vs. Radiesse® vs. Ellansé®
| Feature | Sculptra® | Radiesse® | Ellansé® |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | PLLA | CaHA | PCL |
| Immediate Effect | No | Yes | Yes |
| Duration of Action | Up to 24 months | 12–18 months | 12–24 months |
| Sessions | 2–3 | 1–2 | 1 |
| Visible in X-ray | No | Yes (CaHA) | No |
| In Novamedo Shop | ✅ Available | ⚠️ On request | ✅ Available |
Which Collagen Stimulator for Which Patient?
- Sculptra®: Ideal for patients with significant volume loss who prefer a gradual, natural result.
- Radiesse®: Ideal for immediate results with long-term effects – especially for hands and nasolabial folds.
- Ellansé®: Ideal for maximum duration of action with just one session and precise facial structuring.
