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.

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.

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

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

Benjamin Barankin, MD, FRCPC · Answer

While Botox would be safe to inject into a minor, I have never seen nor could I imagine the need for Botox at this young an age. Best to speak with an experienced skin expert such as a dermatologist as you may very well do sufficiently well with anti-wrinkle creams. ~ Dr. Benjamin Barankin, Toronto Dermatology Centre.

Nissan Pilest, MD · Answer

There can be a lot of causes for "wrinkles". Certainly it is not an aging issue for you. So what I would suggest you do is this:

	
		Examine your life style. Do you stay up late? Your body clock performs best if you are on a schedule with a reasonable amount of nightly sleep. Skin repairs while you sleep and it's an ongoing cycle your entire life.
	
		Examine your hydration habits - this includes getting enough WATER. Sodas, sugary drinks and caffeine are enemies of the skin.
	
		Examine your diet. Are you getting enough healthy fats? Your skin needs lubrication from the inside out. Fruits, vegetables, nuts and cold water fish, olive oil are on the "good skin" list.
	
		Do you sleep with a fan or a/c or heat blowing on your face? That can dehydrate your skin considerably.
	
		Are you treating your skin with any products that can dehydrate or over-dry
	
		Climate - dry arid parts of the country can be unkind to skin. A cold mist humidifier can do wonders for parched skin. Place it near your bed so you get the benefits of moisture through the night.


	As to the legality of Botox at 15, you must have a parent or legal guardian sign for you. But I would recommend you not embark on a habit of injections at such a young age. 

	The media tends to make everyone look at themselves far too critically. You might be surprised at what a few simple daily changes can do to make your skin look better.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Botox is approved by the FDA for use in patients over age 18.  That is not to say that it cannot be injected in a minor but I certainly would have to be convinced that it is necessary and appropriate.

Peter J. Malouf, DO · Answer

Hello,

	Yes, a 15 year -old can get botox with a legal guardian, however, the lines you describe will likely not or only minimally improve with botox. Also, botox placed in the lower lid can cause a lower lid droop that creates a "wider eye" which can look quite un-natural.  Unfortunately, there are few options for this complaint other than laser resurfacing techniques which are more invasive and are not a great choice for a young person with this small problem.

	Sorry, I don't have more to offer.

	Best,

	Dr. Malouf

Can a 15 Year Old Legally Get Botox?

Answers (9)

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