What it can do for you
Let’s face it, we don’t worry about aging until that first fine line appears, or when laugh lines become deeper, or when sagging begins on the face and neck. Unfortunately, nobody can stop aging. Thankfully, today’s technology can help slow it down. From lasers to Botox, there are many ways to turn back the clock nowadays. This week, let’s find out what poly-L-lactic acid can do for you.
Wait, poly-what? You may have not heard about it, but poly-L-lactic acid may be something that you will definitely remember after reading this article. Poly-L-lactic acid, or PLLA, is a synthetic substance that is compatible and easily absorbed by the body. PLLA works best for sagging, volume loss, contouring, and wrinkles. It remedies these skin issues by the stimulation of collagen deep within the skin. By injecting PLLA into the dermis, volume naturally and gradually increases. It also retains volume longer than other fillers even when PLLA has been fully absorbed by the body. This is why if you want subtle but noticeably a fresher, more rejuvenated appearance, PLLA can help.
Is it effective? Of course! In fact, PLLA is US FDA-approved for use in 2004 (Sculptra) when it was used to help with cheek volume loss among HIV patients and then later on approved for cosmetic use in 2009, specifically for nasiolabial folds and other facial wrinkles. So if you are having issues with facial wrinkles, sagging, and volume loss, PLLA could be the one for you.
What else can it do? Apparently, a lot! Not only can it help fade fine lines and create balance and contour the face, it has also had success in treating scars and stretch marks and it can also improve other parts of your body. It can lift, tighten, and tone your buttocks and it can also naturally enhance your breasts (off-label uses).
Is it quick? The procedure, yes, but the results, no. Since natural collagen production is the goal of this treatment, the results are not instant or overnight but will appear after a few months. Several sessions spaced for weeks in between are usually required for PLLA, with the number of sessions depending on the doctor’s assessment. The session itself, however, is quick and also has no downtime, so you can get back to your daily activities immediately.
It retains volume longer than other fillers even when PLLA has been fully absorbed by the body. This is why if you want subtle but noticeably fresher and a more rejuvenated appearance, PLLA could help you achieve that.
Is it safe? Yes! As long as you have a trusted, trained, and certified practitioner do the job. Remember, any treatment can go wrong if not administered correctly, so it is important to find the right practitioner and clinic. Do your research, ask around, and choose a reputable clinic that can assure you of excellent pre and post-treatment care.
Is it for you? Maybe! The practitioner will assess your current health status and lifestyle to determine if you are the right candidate for this treatment. Similar to other cosmetic treatments, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking certain medications or supplements, or have other health-related complications are not allowed to have them, until their says otherwise.