The global financial crisis has not stopped Australians from trying to look beautiful. Data released by the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia (CPSA) showed that Australians spent some $448.5 million on non-surgical cosmetic procedures over the past year.

According to the CPSA, spending on treatments, including anti-wrinkle injections and laser hair removal jumped 30 percent as at end March 31, compared with the same period in 2009.

CPSA president Dr. Gabrielle Caswell noted a trend among image conscious Australians who preferred to undergo procedures with longer lasting benefits rather than those simply for vanity.

Caswell said, "Rather than consumers decreasing their overall spend, we found the global financial crisis was a catalyst for people to become more strategic about their choices."

He said that procedures and treatment with longer benefits are the preferred choice for the budget conscious despite being more expensive.

The credit crisis also forced the public to seek more information before going under the knife by doing their own research, mostly on the Internet. They want to know if they are spending their money on treatments that will actually give them measurable results.

"Australians' appetite for cosmetic treatments continues to grow at a staggering rate and outstrips other countries, ... largely due to the greater skin damage and earlier ageing caused by our exposure to sun," he added.

Among the most popular cosmetic procedures were Botox or equivalent treatment that is aimed at making facial lines smoother, as well as treatments to correct or change the shape of lips and cheeks. Removal of acne scars also saw an upsurge.

To treat damaged skin or to remove unwanted hair, laser treatment is the most preferred procedures among clients.