New ways to beauty

By LISA GREENE
Published March 20, 2006

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A host of new cosmetic procedures that require less surgery, anesthesia and recovery time are becoming more popular. Some offer proven results, while doctors say others are ineffective. The new choices include:

BOTOX: Botulinum toxin is injected in frown lines or other areas to eliminate lines by paralyzing muscles.

COLLAGEN: Purified cow collagen, a protein, is injected in lips or skin creases to plump up skin. Lasts a few months to a year.

RESTYLANE: Hyaluronic acid is injected to fill in lines, often those running from the nose to the mouth. Effects last six months to a year.

LASER HAIR REMOVAL: A laser uses pulsed light to permanently remove hair.

MICRODERMABRASION: A device sprays tiny crystals across the skin to scrap away the outer layer of skin. Used to remove fine wrinkles.

THREAD LIFT: A suture with barbs on it is inserted under the skin to pull it tight. Doctors are divided on its effectiveness.