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What’s new with Sculptra
Sculptra is not a filler- but a product that is injected into our skin (generally on the face) to stimulate collagen production. It consists of PLLA, which is the ingredient found in many of our absorbable sutures. This is a product that has been around for a long time and is well tolerated by our bodies. When collagen is stimulated, it adds volume to the undersurface of our skin and also makes our overlying skin appear younger and fresher because of a better supporting structure. This is often referred to as a Sculptra “glow”. The extra volume lessens folds and wrinkles to create a more even, level surface. Sculptra has also been used “off label” to improve skin on the body, such as on the chest or buttocks.
One of Sculptra`s benefits is that it lasts longer than most fillers. Typically, a patient needs 1 vial (bottle) per decade of life. So, a patient in their 50s would need five bottles given at monthly intervals. Most treatments start with 2 vitals to accelerate results. An annual touch up vial is recommended thereafter for maintenance.
So…what’s new??? In the past it was felt that Sculptra needed to be reconstituted 48 hours ahead of an appointment. We now know that it can be injected immediately at a visit; with preparation at the time of the visit. There is no need to postpone treatment or to call 2 days in advance for an appointment. We also won’t take a deposit; since it isn’t being prepared for you prior to coming in.
Please give us a call to come in for your treatment! We look forward to seeing you.
A few summers ago, we worried about spray sunblocks containing the cancer causing chemical: Benzene.
This week we learned that this ingredient is found in many over the counter benzoyl peroxide acne products. Brands tested and found with dangerously high levels include Clinique, Target’s Up & Up, Proactiv, PanOxyl, Walgreen’s acne soap bar, and Walmart’s Equate Beauty. FDA guidelines allow up to 2 parts per million (ppm). Valisure Testing Laboratory found up to nine times that amount in some treatments. These levels jumped significantly when the products were tested at higher temperatures as if stored in a medicine cabinet in a steamy bathroom. Proactiv’s 2.5% benzoyl peroxide cream contained as much as 1,761 ppm of benzene during testing; A similar cream from Target reached 1,598 ppm; Clinique’s hit 401 ppm. Clearasil 10% BPO initially tested just at the FDA level but jumped to 308 ppm.
The benzene found in sunscreen was an impurity that came from contaminated ingredients. The benzene in BPO comes from the benzoyl peroxide itself. BPO can break down and form benzene.
Valisure’s testing also examined benzene in the air surrounding acne treatments. An unopened Proactiv product leaked high levels when kept at 104 degrees F; the temperature of a hot shower.
When testing was done with salicylic acid (another acne ingredient found in OTC products) elevated benzene was not found.
So…what to do? I don’t recommend BPO for acne, but for an entirely different reason. Although an excellent treatment, these products can permanently bleach fabric. I don’t want someone to ruin their clothing, bedding, towels, etc. We have many wonderful topical treatments for acne by prescription. The Retin A family is always expanding, we have topical tazarotene, topical antibiotics, Dapsone gel, etc. We have excellent oral medication to treat (and cure) acne and many office treatments to use as adjuncts.
Call us to schedule your appointment and get a custom program for your needs!
Joyce Davis MD
212 242 3066