Sculptra®
BEFORE & AFTERCARE
Sculptra® is a biostimulatory injectable designed to gradually restore volume and improve skin structure by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production. Because results develop over time, proper before and after care is essential to ensure even product distribution, optimal collagen renewal, and long-lasting, natural-looking results.
What to Do Before Your Treatment
To help reduce the risk of bruising and ensure the best possible outcome, please follow these guidelines before your Sculptra® appointment:
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior to treatment
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, or certain herbal supplements) for 5–7 days, unless otherwise directed by your prescribing provider
Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment
Arrive with clean skin, free of makeup or skincare products in the treatment area
Inform your provider of any recent illnesses, skin infections, or changes in your medical history
Following these steps helps minimize bruising and supports a smooth treatment experience.
What to Do After Your Treatment
After your Sculptra® appointment, you may return to most normal daily activities the same day. To support proper integration of the product and encourage collagen production, follow these important aftercare guidelines:
Follow the 5–5–5 massage rule:
Massage treated areas for 5 minutes, 5 times per day, for 5 daysUse clean hands and apply gentle but firm pressure during massage
Stay well hydrated to support collagen formation
Apply a clean ice pack wrapped in a cloth if swelling occurs
Resume light daily activities as tolerated
Most patients experience minimal downtime, with temporary swelling or tenderness resolving as the product settles.
Important Precautions to Follow
To minimize irritation and support optimal results, please avoid the following unless otherwise directed by your provider:
Strenuous exercise for 24 hours
Alcohol consumption for 24 hours
Excessive heat exposure, including saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga, and tanning beds for 48 hours
Direct sun exposure to treated areas
Pressing, scratching, or manipulating injection sites outside of instructed massage
Facial treatments, tools, or devices for at least one week
These precautions help ensure Sculptra® distributes evenly and stimulates collagen as intended.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Mild swelling, tenderness, firmness, redness, or small bumps at injection sites are normal and temporary as collagen production begins. However, contact your provider immediately if you experience:
Significant or worsening swelling
Severe or persistent pain
Skin discoloration
Signs of infection
Any symptoms that feel unusual or concerning
Prompt communication helps ensure safe and effective care.
A Quick Takeaway
Sculptra® results develop gradually and improve over time as collagen forms. Following proper before and after care—especially massage instructions—is key to achieving smooth, even, and natural-looking results. Most patients require a customized series of treatments spaced over several months for optimal collagen restoration.
If you ever have questions about your aftercare or results, the Integrated Aesthetics team is always here to support you.
