Ellanse (PCL) vs Sculptra (PLLA) in Singapore: Comparing Collagen Stimulating Injectables

fundamentalmedical
Sep 16
3 min read

When it comes to non-surgical treatments for restoring facial volume and improving skin quality, many patients in Singapore have heard of Ellanse (a PCL-based collagen stimulator) and Sculptra (a PLLA-based collagen stimulator).

These treatments belong to a category known as collagen biostimulators — injectables that trigger your body’s natural ability to produce collagen. Instead of filling lines directly, they stimulate gradual regeneration, leading to firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.

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What Are Collagen Biostimulators?

Collagen biostimulators are injectables designed to:

Stimulate natural collagen production
Improve skin elasticity and firmness
Restore facial volume lost due to ageing
Deliver results that last longer than traditional dermal fillers

How Do Collagen Stimulators Work?

Collagen stimulators are injectables that contain biocompatible materials such as polycaprolactone (PCL) or poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Once injected, these particles act as a scaffold that stimulates the skin to produce new collagen over time.

This process helps:

Rebuild the skin’s natural support structure
Improve firmness and elasticity
Restore lost facial volume gradually
Deliver long-lasting rejuvenation (2–4 years depending on the product)

Unlike hyaluronic acid fillers that add immediate volume, biostimulators focus on regenerating your own collagen over time for a more natural and long-lasting result.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) vs Collagen Biostimulators

Feature	HA Fillers / Skin Boosters	Collagen Biostimulators
Main effect	Adds hydration, plumps skin	Stimulates collagen growth
Onset	Immediate (fillers) or 1–2 weeks (skin boosters)	Gradual (3–6 months)
Longevity	6–12 months	2–4 years (depending on product)
Best for	Fine lines, hydration, contouring	Volume restoration, firmness
Look	Can appear filled if overdone	Natural, progressive changes

Key takeaway:

Choose HA injectables for quick hydration or volume.
Choose collagen biostimulators for long-term, subtle rejuvenation.
Many patients combine both for full-face results.

PCL-Based Collagen Stimulator

A PCL-based collagen stimulator uses polycaprolactone microspheres to trigger collagen production.

Key Benefits:

Long-lasting results (often 2–4 years)
Suitable for deeper wrinkles and volume loss
Provides both immediate lifting effect and long-term collagen stimulation

Best For:

Patients wanting longer-lasting rejuvenation
Restoring mid-face volume, temples, and jawline definition

PLLA-Based Collagen Stimulator

A PLLA-based collagen stimulator uses poly-L-lactic acid to gradually stimulate collagen growth.

Key Benefits:

Natural, progressive results over 3–6 months
Improves overall skin quality and firmness
Results typically last around 2 years

Best For:

Patients who prefer subtle, gradual improvements
Treating hollow cheeks, sagging, and early signs of ageing

Ellansé vs Sculptra: Key Differences

Feature	PCL-Based (Ellansé)	PLLA-Based (Sculptra)
Main ingredient	Polycaprolactone (PCL)	Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
Onset	Faster visible improvement	Gradual changes over months
Longevity	2–4 years	~2 years
Best for	Patients wanting longer-lasting results	Patients preferring subtle, natural progression
Treatment areas	Mid-face, temples, jawline	Cheeks, hollow areas, general skin firmness

Who Are Collagen Biostimulators For?

Collagen injections are suitable for individuals who want:

Volume restoration in cheeks, temples, or jawline
Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
A more youthful skin texture
Results that look natural and last longer than fillers

Treatment Areas for Collagen Biostimulators

Collagen biostimulators can be injected in different areas of the face to restore volume and improve skin quality. Common treatment zones include:

Cheeks: Restores mid-face volume and reduces sagging
Temples: Fills hollowness, lifting the upper face
Jawline: Defines and sharpens contour
Nasolabial folds (smile lines): Softens deep creases
Marionette lines: Improves drooping around the mouth

💡 In some cases, biostimulators may also be used on the neck and décolletage to enhance firmness and elasticity.

Safety & Aftercare

Both treatments are generally safe when performed by qualified medical professionals.

Downtime: Mild swelling or bruising may occur, usually resolving within a few days.
Treatment plan: Typically requires 1–3 sessions depending on the product and patient’s skin goals.
Aftercare: Avoid excessive sun and strenuous exercise for 24 hours post-treatment.

Conclusion

Both PCL-based collagen stimulators (Ellansé) and PLLA-based collagen stimulators (Sculptra) offer effective ways to restore facial volume and rejuvenate the skin. The right choice depends on your desired speed of results, longevity, and treatment goals.

Consulting with an experienced doctor in Singapore will help determine whether a PCL-based or PLLA-based collagen stimulator is the best fit for your needs.

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