Since the global recession began in 2008, the aesthetic and anti‑ageing industry has been fortunate enough to consistently show resilience, while others have shown signs of struggle. Each year, new figures are released to show continued growth, and a recent analysis by US-based company ReportsnReports supports the trend.

According to the new report, the total European market for cosmetic surgery, facial aesthetics and medical laser devices is valued at €869.4 million; a market which includes botulinum toxin A, dermal fillers, breast implants, non-breast implants, aesthetic lasers and light devices, non-invasive skin tightening devices, and non-invasive fat reduction devices. Unsurprisingly, the largest segment is botulinum toxin A.

As columnist Emmanuelle Bassmann reports in this issue, the use of botulinum toxin A is the number one procedure in most markets worldwide, and is one of the most researched drugs: ‘over $300 million in R&D investment, more than 2500 peer‑reviewed articles, and approximately 65 clinical trials involving 15 000 patients’. This is the third time I’ve written an editorial on the subject this year, perhaps showing what an important product it is, and how it impacts on the news and research of the day. It also shows how successful brand recognition can be (I’m sure Allergan are in awe of how much of a household name ‘BOTOX’ has become).

According to the report (ReportsnReports), in 2012 there were over 1.5 million botulinum toxin A injections in Europe — almost a double-digit increase over the previous year. The total number of injections included botulinum toxin A injections used for aesthetic and therapeutic indications (e.g. for migraine).

The European population is also trending towards choice for affordability and minimally-invasive products such as laser- and light-based devices.

However, it is not only the brands and companies that are continuing to show resilience in tough times, but the people and professionals who always strive for best practice and high standards. At recent industry meetings in London and Las Vegas, I was reminded (not that I had forgotten) of the passion of the professionals working in aesthetic and anti-ageing medicine, and how they too show resilience despite economic uncertainty, and despite the industry being continually questioned with regard to standards and regulations, as has been the case in the UK for the last few years.

Don’t forget that it is the medical professionals who make this industry work, and not just the big brands and companies.