Collagen stimulators are the revolution in aesthetic medicine. Unlike classic dermal fillers, they stimulate the body's own collagen production for natural, long-lasting results.
What are collagen stimulators?
Collagen stimulators are injectable substances that stimulate the body's own collagen production. In contrast to hyaluronic acid fillers, which provide volume immediately, collagen stimulators work gradually over several weeks and months. The result: Natural, long-lasting volume building and skin tightening.
Benefits of collagen stimulators:
- Long-lasting results (12-24+ months)
- Natural, gradual improvement
- Stimulation of the body's own collagen production
- Skin tightening in addition to volume building
- Ideal for large-area treatments
The three leading collagen stimulators in comparison
Radiesse: The calcium hydroxyapatite classic
Radiesse by Merz Aesthetics uses calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) microspheres in a gel carrier. It provides instant volume plus long-term collagen stimulation.
Available products:
- Radiesse 1 x 1.5 ml – Standard variant for facial contouring and volume building.
- Radiesse Lidocaine 1 x 1.5 ml – With lidocaine for low-pain treatment.
Mechanism of action
The CaHA microspheres provide instant volume while the gel carrier is absorbed. At the same time, the microspheres stimulate the fibroblasts to produce collagen. After 12-18 months the microspheres are completely broken down and the newly formed collagen is retained.
Areas of application
- Cheek and midface structure
- Chin and jaw contouring
- Nasolabial folds (deep wrinkles)
- Back of hand rejuvenation
- Décolleté treatment
Durability & Treatment
Durability: 12-18 months
Treatments: Usually 1-2 sessions
Result: Immediately visible + gradual improvement over 3 months
Advantages: Immediate effect + long-term effect, versatile, proven technology for over 15 years.
Sculptra: The PLLA natural rejuvenation specialist
Sculptra by Galderma is based on poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biocompatible, completely degradable polymer. It is the gold standard for large-scale facial rejuvenation.
Available product:
- Sculptra 2 vials – Complete set with 2 bottles for comprehensive treatment.
Mechanism of action
PLLA microparticles are injected deep into the tissue and stimulate collagen production for months. The result develops gradually over 3-6 months. The PLLA is completely broken down into water and CO₂.
Areas of application
- Large-scale facial rejuvenation
- Building volume if you lose face (e.g. after weight loss)
- Cheek and temple area
- Nasolabial folds
- Marionette wrinkles
- HIV-associated lipoatrophy
Durability & Treatment
Durability: 24+ months (up to 3 years)
Treatments: Usually 2-3 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart
Result: Gradually over 3-6 months, very natural
Advantages: Longest lasting, very natural results, ideal for large area treatments, FDA approved since 2004.
Ellansé: The PCL innovation with variable durability
Ellansé by Sinclair uses polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres. The innovation: Different formulations for different shelf lives.
Available products:
- Ellansé S 2 x 1 ml – Short: 12 month shelf life. Ideal for first treatments.
- Ellansé M 2 x 1 ml – Medium: 18 month shelf life. Most popular variant.
Note: Ellansé L (24 months) and Ellansé E (36+ months) are also available.
Mechanism of action
PCL microspheres in a CMC gel carrier provide instant volume. The microspheres stimulate collagen production while gradually breaking down. The degradation rate varies depending on the formulation (S/M/L/E).
Areas of application
- Facial contouring and volume building
- Cheeks and midface
- Nasolabial folds
- Marionette wrinkles
- Chin and jaw contouring
- Back of hand rejuvenation
Durability & Treatment
Durability: 12-36+ months (depending on variant)
Treatments: Usually 1-2 sessions
Result: Immediately visible + gradual improvement over 3-6 months
Advantages: Immediate effect, variable durability selectable, very good tolerance, CE certified.
Comparison table: Radiesse vs. Sculptra vs. Ellansé
| property | Radiesse | Sculptra | Ellansé |
|---|---|---|---|
| active ingredient | Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) | Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) | Polycaprolactone (PCL) |
| Instant effect | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (gradually) | ✅ Yes |
| Durability | 12-18 months | 24+ months | 12-36+ months (variable) |
| Treatments | 1-2 sessions | 2-3 sessions | 1-2 sessions |
| Result | Immediately + gradually | Gradual (3-6 months) | Immediately + gradually |
| Ideal for | Cheeks, chin, hands | Large-scale rejuvenation | Facial contouring |
| Special feature | Proven classic | Longest shelf life | Variable durability |