I am interviewed frequently these days on whether I see any cosmetic trends due to the challenging economic climate. And the answer is absolutely, trends in cosmetic procedures are changing. In these challenging economic times, patients are definitely looking for the most value. For some, that means shopping for venues that have the cheapest Botox prices. However, patients learn that if Botox is too cheap, it is watered down and not effective.

Other patients understand this and either wait longer between treatments, allowing some lines to return, or have their Botox done regularly, but just have fewer areas treated each visit.

The second trend I see is more patients choosing Botox and fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, Evolence, Radiesse, and Sculptra, as an alternative to plastic surgery. While not as dramatic as a face lift, Botox and fillers are a lot less expensive yet provide significant results, and most importantly, a result that looks natural. Botox and fillers also have no down time, which means you don’t have to miss work or use up accrued vacation. In fact, if done by a skilled physician, you achieve results that are natural and fit your face, so you can keep your family, friends and co-workers guessing!

Interestingly, laser procedures are still quite popular. I think this is because there are few alternatives to laser in terms of changing the texture and quality of our skin. Lasers are so versatile in that they smooth rough skin, improve acne, resurface and diminish scars, remove hair, and treat blood vessels.

For patients that do not need the dramatic improvement that laser gives, chemical peels are a good alternative, and reasonably priced. So I have not noticed a significant reduction in chemical peels.

Lastly, I notice patients are understanding the value of buying skincare products that contain multiple active ingredients in one bottle, rather than buying 1 product per symptom. We are a society on the go, so it only makes sense that we are trending toward quality products that are an “all-in-one” solution.

At the end of the day, we all only have one face…and looking good makes us feel better no matter what the economic situation.