Both products are biodegradable polymers that gradually break down in the body and stimulate your own collagen production, but they differ in molecular structure and particle characteristics. PLLA, the ingredient in Sculptra, has a sharp, irregular crystalline structure. In contrast, PDLLA, the ingredient in JUVELOOK Volume, has a round, porous (sponge-like) amorphous structure. This structural difference allows PDLLA to break down slightly more flexibly and quickly in the body. There is also a difference in formulation. Sculptra is a PLLA-only formulation that requires dilution with sterile distilled water before injection, whereas JUVELOOK Volume combines PDLLA with HA (hyaluronic acid), which attracts moisture and helps provide immediate hydration and shape retention.
How Are PLLA (Sculptra) and PDLLA (JUVELOOK Volume) Different?
Do the Results Appear at Different Times?
Yes, in terms of subjective experience, JUVELOOK Volume is relatively faster. Thanks to the HA blended into JUVELOOK Volume, you feel a light volume immediately after the procedure, and then PDLLA stimulates collagen production, naturally filling in over several weeks. In other words, it combines 'immediate change + gradual filling.' In contrast, Sculptra appears to have volume right after the procedure due to the dilution fluid (water), but this subsides within a few days. Then, typically from weeks 6 to 12, full-scale collagen production begins, and noticeable volume improvement appears over several months.
Which One Lasts Longer?
Based on manufacturer reports and studies, the 'maximum duration' is slightly longer for Sculptra, which degrades slowly. Sculptra degrades gradually, with collagen lasting approximately 2 years or more, while JUVELOOK Volume is known to maintain generated collagen for about 1.5 to 2 years.
However, this refers to the period until volume completely disappears. The 'recommended interval' for maintaining the beautiful volume in optimal condition is different. For both procedures, the collagen your skin produces naturally decreases gradually over time, so to consistently maintain the initial good results, we most recommend a touch-up of about 1 vial approximately every year.
Also, because these are not artificial implants, the actual duration varies greatly depending on the amount injected, the number of initial sessions, and your individual metabolic rate. Therefore, rather than being too tied to the one-year mark, it is better to visit us when you feel the volume is slightly lacking and plan a replenishment schedule suited to your skin condition.
Which Has a Lower Risk of Nodules?
Theoretically, considering particle shape and characteristics, JUVELOOK Volume, with its round and uniform structure, is known to have a relatively lower risk of clumping or nodules.
However, far more important than the product type in preventing nodules is the injection technique of the dermatologist. Regardless of which product is chosen, accurately understanding your skin thickness and anatomical structure and injecting it into the appropriate skin layer, at the right concentration, in a precise and evenly distributed manner is the most critical key to preventing side effects.
In conclusion, both procedures carry a rare possibility of nodule formation. Therefore, following the aftercare instructions provided by the clinic after the procedure helps prevent them, and if you feel any firmness, we recommend visiting the clinic to have it checked.
Does the Choice Depend on the Treatment Area?
In fact, the treatment areas for Sculptra and JUVELOOK Volume are quite similar. Both procedures are mainly used to improve overall facial volume loss in areas such as the front cheeks, lateral cheeks, temples, and deep nasolabial folds, and you can also expect skin texture improvement from collagen production in common.
Rather, for areas with very thin skin that require delicate approach, such as the forehead or eye area, neither product is a primary recommendation. For forehead volume, other types of collagen stimulators or HA dermal fillers are often used. Also, for fine lines around the eyes or under-eye skin, it is safer and more effective to use JUVELOOK Eye, which has much finer particles, rather than a large-particle volume product.
In conclusion, rather than the difference depending on 'which area,' the choice between the two products is made based on your skin thickness, the overall pattern of hollowing, and your preference regarding the speed of filling and duration. We recommend that you decide on the most suitable product and treatment plan through diagnosis and consultation with a dermatologist.
