Sculptra: why an old beauty product is back as the trend of 2025

Earlier it was used in medicine to restore facial volume in patients with HIV lipodystrophy, and now it has become popular in aesthetic cosmetology, promising natural rejuvenation without fillers. ELLE reports.

What is Sculptra and how it differs from fillers

Unlike conventional hyaluronic fillers, Sculptra is not a filler, but a biostimulant. Its active ingredient, poly-L-lactic acid, stimulates the body's own collagen production, strengthening the skin and improving its structure.

"Our body consists of 85% of collagen type one - it is responsible for the elasticity and density of the skin," explains dermatologist Daniel Belkin (New York).

According to him, the effect of the drug appears gradually - after 3-4 months - and lasts longer than most fillers. The result looks natural: the skin becomes denser, the contours of the face - clearer, and fine lines are smoothed.

Sculptra - a new tool for rejuvenation

At first, the product was only used to correct cheeks and deep wrinkles, but now doctors are using it in other areas.

"Sculptra works great not only on the face, but also on the neck, chest and even buttocks," notes Belkin.

Plastic surgeon Catherine Chang adds:

"I use Sculptra in the temporal area - it helps restore volume and prevent the 'shrunken face' effect."

Some specialists use a diluted form of the product - so-called "hyperdiluted Sculptra" - to tighten the skin and give a slight lift, comparing the result to the effect of lasers. It is this feature, according to experts, that has sparked rumours of stars using the drug in preparation for facelifts.

Not without risks

However, popularity has a downside. Unlike hyaluronic fillers, Sculptra cannot be dissolved, so the doctor must be particularly precise in dosage and injection technique. In addition, the drug is not suitable for superficial areas - for example, under the eyes, where there is a risk of nodule formation.

Some surgeons warn: overuse of Sculptra can complicate future surgeries.

"It can cause the formation of dense fibres similar to scar tissue, making it more difficult to perform a lift," says New York surgeon Sean Alemi.

Experts agree that Sculptra is an effective, but not a one-size-fits-all solution.

"This product works great for certain areas and patients, but everything has its limitations," emphasises cosmetic surgeon Vanessa Lee, founder of The Things We Do clinic in Los Angeles.

Sculptra is not a substitute for surgery and is not suitable for instant results - its action is based on natural tissue regeneration. Nevertheless, experts predict that in 2025 it will remain one of the most popular means for natural lifting without a scalpel.