What is the best age to have Botox?
There is no single “best” age. The right time depends on your skin, expressions, medical history and goals — not just a number on your birthday cake.
Regulatory note (UK): botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine. This page is informational and does not advertise prescription medicines. Any treatment can only be considered after a face-to-face consultation confirms suitability.
There is no universal “best” age for Botox
You’ll often read that the “perfect” age to start Botox is 25, 30 or 35. In reality, there is no magic number. Some people form strong frown or forehead lines in their late 20s; others barely crease in their 40s.
Instead of chasing an age, we focus on what your skin is actually doing:
- Are lines only visible when you move, or etched in at rest?
- Do your expressions make you look tired, angry or worried when you feel fine?
- Is your skin thin and crepe-like, or thicker and more resilient?
- How much do sun, smoking, stress and sleep affect your skin?
If you are not yet seeing meaningful lines, or your concerns are mainly about texture, dullness or pigmentation, other treatments may be more appropriate – for example advanced facials, skin peels or skin boosters.
Typical age ranges — what we see in clinic
Late 20s to early 30s — “expression-led” clients
Some people naturally have very animated faces or strong frown muscles. If expression lines are already visible at rest in your late 20s or early 30s, a light, conservative approach may help soften them.
- Often concerned about “11” lines between the brows
- Early crow’s feet from squinting or outdoor lifestyles
- Benefit from skincare, sun protection and lifestyle changes as much as injections
Mid 30s to 40s — common starting point
Many people first consider anti-wrinkle injections when lines linger after frowning, concentrating or smiling.
- Lines visible in photos even when you aren’t “pulling a face”
- Make-up sits in creases on the forehead or around the eyes
- Often looking to “soften, not freeze” their expression
50s and beyond — lines plus skin quality
In later decades, muscle activity is only one part of the picture. Sun exposure, bone changes, volume loss and skin quality all play a role, so a more combined plan is usually appropriate.
- Anti-wrinkle injections may be combined with dermal fillers, Skin Lab assessment or laser
- We’re realistic and honest about what can and can’t be achieved
Can you be too young for Botox?
Yes. In the UK, botulinum toxin is not appropriate under 18. Even over 18, we are cautious about using neuromodulators in very young adults if there are no meaningful lines or functional concerns.
Our approach to so-called “preventative” Botox
- We do not treat simply because someone has turned a certain age.
- We avoid chasing completely smooth, line-free foreheads in younger clients; this can look unnatural and may not be in your best long-term interests.
- Skincare, SPF, lifestyle changes and supporting collagen often give far better “prevention” than injections alone.
- If you are in your 20s and curious, a consultation is the safest place to explore options — and to hear if we think you don’t need treatment yet.
Good prevention often looks like daily SPF, managing stress and supporting skin health — not simply starting injections earlier and earlier.
When Botox might not be the right choice
There are situations where anti-wrinkle injections are not suitable, regardless of age. These can include certain neuromuscular conditions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, particular medications and specific medical histories. We will always screen for these carefully.
We may also advise alternatives if:
- Your main concern is pigmentation, redness or sun damage
- You have advanced skin laxity where lifting procedures may be more appropriate
- Your expectations or requested look don’t fit with a subtle, natural approach
In these cases, we might discuss other options such as ageing-skin programmes, chemical peels, skin tightening or targeted facials.
What happens at an anti-wrinkle consultation at Santi?
- History & goals — We explore your medical history, previous treatments and what’s bothering you most (photos are welcome).
- Facial assessment — We look at your skin at rest and in motion, considering muscle activity, symmetry and skin quality.
- Discussion of options — This can include non-injectable routes, skincare and lifestyle, as well as if (and where) anti-wrinkle injections might help.
- Consent & cooling-off — If a prescription option is appropriate, we explain benefits, risks and alternatives. Some clients choose to think about it before deciding.
Many clients leave their first consultation with a clearer plan, even if they decide not to have injections at all.
Frequently asked questions about age and Botox
Is 25 too young to start Botox?
Often, yes — especially if you have no visible lines at rest. Occasional expression lines in your 20s are normal. We focus on prevention via SPF, skincare and lifestyle first, and only consider injections if there are clear, persistent lines and it is in your best interests.
Is there an age that’s “too late” for Botox?
Not necessarily. We regularly see clients in their 50s and 60s. However, expectations must be realistic: deep, long-standing lines may not fully disappear and may be better addressed with a combined approach including skin quality treatments.
How often will I need treatment once I start?
Many people choose maintenance every 3–4 months, but this varies by muscle strength, dose and area. Some clients prefer less frequent, lower-dose treatments to maintain more movement.
Will starting younger make me “dependent” on Botox?
No physical dependency develops, but you may get used to a certain look. When treatment stops, muscles gradually return to their usual activity. We are conservative in younger adults and will advise if we feel you are better served by non-injectable options.
Compliance note: This page provides general educational information about ageing, facial lines and consultation processes. It does not advertise prescription-only medicines. Suitability for any treatment can only be determined in a face-to-face consultation with an appropriate healthcare professional.