In this episode of The Skin Real, Dr. Mary Alice Mina breaks down two of the most talked-about biostimulators in aesthetic medicine — Sculptra and Radiesse — and explains why they are not interchangeable, despite both building collagen. She covers how each product works at a cellular level, what to realistically expect after treatment (including the swelling that disappears in the first week), how long results last, which areas each product is best suited for, and the real risks like nodule formation. Dr. Mina also discusses hyperdilute Radiesse, the "rule of fives" massage protocol for Sculptra, injection technique, and how to combine biostimulators with other treatments for maximum results. The episode ends with her honest take on which product she uses more in her own practice — and why the injector matters more than the product itself.

In this episode: 

0:00 — Sculptra vs Radiesse: Why This Question Matters

0:32 — What Are Biostimulators?

2:20 — Why People Are Moving Away from HA Fillers

3:38 — The Collagen Banking Era: Why Timing Matters

4:55 — How Sculptra Works

7:22 — Sculptra Results: What to Expect and How Long They Last

9:52 — The Unpredictability of Sculptra Response

11:12 — How Radiesse Works

13:18 — Hyperdilute Radiesse: What It Is and When to Use It

15:15 — Key Differences: Sculptra vs Radiesse Side by Side

17:00 — Best Treatment Areas for Each Product

18:35 — Nodule Risk and How to Manage It

20:25 — Injection Technique: Needle vs Cannula

21:30 — The Rule of Fives and Post-Care

22:45 — Reversibility and Starting Conservatively

23:25 — Which One Does Dr. Mina Actually Use?

24:00 — Combining Biostimulators with Other Treatments

Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!

Dr. Mina is a board-certified dermatologist on a mission to cut through the noise and help women feel amazing in their skin again. After decades in clinic, she has taken her expertise online to offer trusted, no-fluff education and skin strategies that actually work. No filters. No fear tactics. Just science, simplicity, and a little fun!

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Thanks for tuning in. And remember, real skin care is real simple when you know who to trust.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.