Radiesse®, Sculptra® and HarmonyCa®: what are the differences?

Radiesse®, HarmonyCa® and Sculptra® are tissue inducers: when injected, they stimulate the skin to produce its own collagen and therefore have a long-term firming effect. They are particularly interesting products for boosting the skin's own collagen production, and offering a gradual re-tautening of the tissues over the medium term.

What's the difference between them?

What is Radiesse?

The Radiesse® is composed of calcium hydroxyapatite suspended in a carrier gel. This gel produces a slight volume effect that is visible immediately after injection. It gradually fades, giving way to delayed biostimulation, stimulated by CaHA microbeads.

With little inflammatory reaction, it is particularly appreciated on areas where the skin is thinner - typically the oval of the face, the neck, the décolleté and the hands.

In the case of loss of volume coupled with loss of elasticity, Radiesse® can be mixed with hyaluronic acid. It is the ideal combined treatment in this case.

• 1 to 2 sessions are required depending on the area
• Period of effect: approximately 9 to 12 months
• Price: €600 or €990 with the addition of hyaluronic acid

What is HarmonyCa?

HarmonyCa® is made up of calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) and hyaluronic acid.

HarmonyCa® combines the immediate volumising effect of hyaluronic acid, which gives a slight volume and "lift" effect, with CaHA microbeads, which biostimulate collagen, for lasting results on skin elasticity and firmness.

• 1 session is enough for young skin, but from the age of around 45, 2ml will be needed to obtain the desired result.
• Duration of effect: approximately 12 to 18 months
• Price: 600 for 1 ml; 1,100CHF for 2 ml

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra® is made from poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a product recognised by the body as a safe substance. This component is the same as that used in absorbable sutures, so we can be sure that not only will it break down naturally over time - thus avoiding product build-up - but it is also very well accepted by the body.

Scuptra® induces controlled local inflammation over a slightly longer period than Radiesse® or HarmonyCa®, and is therefore particularly effective on the body (buttocks, knees, inner thighs, arms, etc.). Sculptra® restores volume and effectively and naturally treats the signs of skin ageing. Unlike other injectable products, its effects can last for more than 18 months.

• A minimum of 3 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart for over-40s
• Effective period: up to 24 months
• Price: from 900CHF for 1 session; 2,400CHF for 3 sessions