The Science Behind Collagen Stimulation

When it comes to youthful, firm, healthy-looking skin, collagen is a major part of that foundation. Unfortunately, as we age, our body significantly slows down its production process, while lifestyle factors like smoking, sun exposure, and other external elements contribute to further breaking down existing collagen. As collagen declines, skin loses its structure, and concerns like laxity, fine lines, and sagging begin to show. Although there are many treatments that support collagen stimulation available on the market, today we’re focusing on Sculptra, PRF injections, and PRX Derm Perfexion. These three treatments work in different ways to stimulate the body’s natural ability to produce more collagen, combating the loss of collagen as we age. 

Why rebuild collagen? 

As we age and collagen decreases, so can the structural integrity of our features. As volume and collagen decrease, many people think hyaluronic acid fillers are the answer. Co-owner of Coco Med Spa and APRN, Amy Nguyen says no. “I like to use the analogy of a mattress. If you have a thin, floppy mattress and you put a bunch of pillows underneath it to support it, it does not address the thin and floppy mattress, but instead just adds lumpy pillows underneath, right? That’s what can happen when we simply add volume with HA filler under skin that has lost collagen. But if we take that mattress and we replace it with a thicker, firmer mattress and then add pillows, you can adjust the shape of the mattress without creating lumps and bumps underneath.” The same works with the skin. Treatments like Sculptra, PRF, and PRX rebuild the collagen structure in the skin. Once the collagen is rebuilt, it can better hold treatments like HA fillers and give the full, youthful result that you’re looking for.

How do collagen-stimulating treatments work?

Sculptra is delivered into the skin as an injectable and gets right to work stimulating the body’s ability to create new collagen in the deep layers of the skin. PRF is also injected into the treatment area, but what makes it unique is that PRF is derived from each person’s own blood. This means that growth factors from your own body are delivering the message to regenerate straight to the treatment area. Finally, PRX is applied superficially but designed to work beneath the surface of the skin, stimulating new collagen production without irritating the surface of the skin. Active ingredients like TCA and hydrogen peroxide work together to produce powerful results while keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. 

How long do results take?

Each service and individual varies, but all three of the treatments discussed today work best when administered over a series of sessions. Collagen rebuilding is not instant, and the results are cumulative. This means time, repetition, and consistency will bring you the results you’re looking for. 

Ready to find some collagen-building results of your own with us at Coco Med Spa? Call us to schedule a consultation today!