A recent study in Australia suggests that women as young as 18 are now seeking Botox treatments for preventative purposes, self-esteem and just because they can.  Dr. Laurence Anderson, a cosmetic surgeon in Sydney commented that he has turned down requests for Botox by women who are 18 and 20.  “It was completely inappropriate and they didn’t need it- these were young women with a flawless complexion,” commented the doctor.

Some women, like 28-year-old Michelle Russell, disagree however.  “It definitely boosts your confidence.  You want to look your best even if you’re just going out on a Saturday night with your friends,” commented the young woman who has been receiving Botox treatments for the past four years.  Russell also commented that several of her friends regularly get Botox injections.

There are several reasons for this fall in age of Botox patients.  Dr. Tim Papadopoulos of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons alleges that many young women believe Botox will boost their careers.  “In my practice about 20 percent of women seeking Botox would be in their 30s, or to a lesser extent, their 20s,” commented the surgeon.

Some doctors also believe that women may be impacted by their parent’s generation who is now openly receiving Botox injections and other cosmetic enhancement procedures.  Women are seeing the results and thinking, “I can too”, according to a spokesperson for the Australian College of Cosmetic Surgery. 

Dr. Anderson still maintains though that administering Botox treatments to young faces is unethical.  Major cosmetic procedures have always been preventative, to stave off the ravages of old age but now people are trying to stave off the ravages of young age,” the disgruntled doctor commented. 

While no comprehensive research has been performed to determine the effects of cosmetic procedures on young people, studies suggest that they are significantly less likely to be satisfied with the results. 

Botox is administered by injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin into the face and is intended to paralyze wrinkle-causing muscles.  Botox treatments in the United States where trends are similar, typically range in price from $200 to $1000 per injection.