You’re scrolling through your Instagram feed when you see a post from your friend about how she’s been using a lash serum for the past few weeks and her lashes look so much longer and fuller. You start to wonder if you should give it a try, but then you remember that you’re only 15 years old.
So you start to wonder, how old do you have to be to use a lash serum?
Latisse is approved by the FDA for patients 18 years of age and older. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been studied and established.
In this article, we’ll dive into the nitty gritty details about lash serums and age restrictions.
Let’s get started!
Disclaimer: Although I have been doing eyelash enhancement treatments for years, I am not a doctor. All content and information in this post are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your own Medical Provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your specific health before implementing any recommendations or suggestions from our Website.
Why Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Use a Lash Serum?
The minimum age requirement is in place because the safety and effectiveness of lash serums have not been studied or established in pediatric patients.1 Lash serums typically contain active ingredients that can cause irritation, redness, and other side effects.
Some of these side effects can be serious and even lead to long-term damage. Therefore, it’s important to err on the side of caution and avoid using lash serums if you’re under 18 years old.
Can I Still Buy a Lash Serum if I’m Under the Age of 18?
Technically yes.
However, I have to make a distinction between a medication and a cosmetic.
Medication is a drug that is used to treat, cure, or prevent disease. A cosmetic, on the other hand, is a product that is used to improve or change the appearance of the body.
Latisse is a medication used to treat hypotrichosis, which is a condition characterized by insufficient or lacking lashes. As such, it requires a prescription from a physician and will not be given to patients under the age of 18. It is worth noting that it is the only FDA-approved eyelash serum on the market.
There are other lash serums available that are considered cosmetics. These products do not require a prescription, but they may not be as effective as Latisse. They also don’t have the same clinical studies to back up their safety and efficacy.
So although no one would stop you from buying a cosmetic at your local pharmacy if you’re 17 years old, I recommend that you talk to your parents or a trusted adult first. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits and make an informed decision.
Should You Use a Cosmetic Lash Serum if You’re Under the Age of 18?
The short answer is no. If you’re under the age of 18, I recommend that you consult with a physician before using any lash serum, whether it’s a medication or a cosmetic.
While the side effects of a cosmetic lash serum may be mild, they can still cause irritation, redness, and other problems. Having said that, even cosmetic lash serums can be found with prostaglandin analogs (the same active ingredient found in Latisse). Therefore, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article has been helpful in answering your questions about lash serums and age restrictions. Remember, if you’re under the age of 18, it’s always best to consult with a physician before using any growth serums.
Let me know your experience in the comments below!
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Latisse (bimatoprost ophthalmic) solution label. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/022369s005lbl.pdf [Accessed 21st September 2022].
