In the past two decades, there have been remarkable advances in cosmetic technology. We have gone from applying night cream to wrinkles and hoping for the best, to injecting toxins that paralyze the muscles in our face so that we see lines disappear before our eyes. And it seems like a page out of an old science fiction novel, people are using lasers to cut out unwanted problems areas and correct their appearances.
As time progresses, people are growing more excited to see what researchers will come up with next. Gene Rubinstein, M.D., of the Dermatology and Laser Centre of Studio City in California discusses how recent technology has progressed and where you can expect it to go in the future.
Erasing Your Wrinkles: In 1989, the FDA first approved the use of botulinum toxin type A (Botox) for treating crossed eyes and spasms in the eye muscle. And by the following decade, it was discovered that Botox temporarily cured excessive sweating and cerebral palsy. But the crowning moment for Botox came when ophthalmologist Dr. Jean Carruthers noticed that after her patients were treated for crossed eyes, they left her office looking much younger and wrinkle-free. After further development of her find was completed, Botox was officially approved by the FDA in 2002 to eliminate lines and wrinkles in the face. Since then, more and more people have been flocking to their doctor and dermatologist’s office to get their dose of Botox too. According to the most recent figures on the official Botox website, in 2005 almost 3.3 million procedures were performed.
In Europe, there are already numerous Botox competitors and Dr. Rubinstein says it is only a matter of time before more products are introduced in the United States. That seems to already be starting now that the FDA has approved Dysport, which promises the same results as Botox. Dr. Rubinstein also predicts that the price of Botox and similar products will gradually decrease because the procedures are becoming more widespread and routine and the stigma that has surrounded Botox in the past is starting to fade.
Laser Technology: The treatments that are currently being done with lasers have already been life changing. People suffering from skin ailments like acne and scarring to vitiligo and psoriasis have already seen remarkable results that are unmatched by any treatments they have tried in the past.
Although it is just in the infant stages of development, Dr. Rubinstein says that a lot of research is going i to developing laser treatments that go below the neck. While the techniques have not been perfected quite yet, there is talk of using lasers to remove fat and treat cellulite. For many, laser technology is at the forefront of a new frontier in cosmetic procedures.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
