Can a 15 Year Old Legally Get Botox?

Question

Can a 15 year old legally get Botox injected with parental consent? Not because of a small wrinkle that's barely noticeable or because of a lack of good confidence but because of under eye wrinkles that are really really noticeable when you smile and people point it out. They look like a older woman's wrinkles and it has gotten worse even when precautions have been taken. Is Botox good for under eye wrinkles or would something else work better such as Juvederm?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I wouldn't recommend this at such a young age. I suggest seeing an esthetician or dermatologist that can get you on a home regimen using medical grade products for the skin to help hydrate and firm the under eye area.

George T. Boris, MD, FRCS · Answer

Botox is approved for patients over 18. I would recommend bringing them in so that they can be properly examined. There may be treatments that would make them feel much more confident that doesnt require botox injections. If you are in Los Angeles please scehdule a consultation. Being young and having low self esteem is always difficult. Lets see if there is something we can do to make them feel better. Good luck

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The FDA indication for cosmetic BOTOX is for individuals ages 18 to 65. However this does not stop a licensed physician from using BOTOX off label for individuals whose ages fall outside this age range.

Dan Mills, MD · Answer

Dear anonimo123. The use of Botox is indicated by the FDA for glabellar frown lines in people over the age of 18. However, it has been used in other areas of the face and this is considered an off-label use of Botox. Though I doubt that the wrinkle you describe in your 15 year old child is due to laxity from aging, without a picture to illustrate the wrinkle, it would be difficult to offer you any advice. I suggest a formal consultation with an ASAPS (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) Plastic Surgeon to help determine what the cause of the wrinkle you see is from.

Michael M. Kim, MD · Answer

Hello,

	I personally would not inject Botox or Juvederm in a minor without parental consent. The other issue is a question of needing the injectables in the first place since it's unlikely that the wrinkles are caused by age.

	I would wait until at least your 18. In the meantime, have a frank discussion with your parents regarding how you feel. I think that smiling at your age is a good thing!

	Michael Kim, MD

Can a 15 Year Old Legally Get Botox?

Answers (9)