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BOTOX & DYSPORT

DO’S AND DONT’S AFTER A BOTOX INJECTION

02-14-2023
ALLY - RN, BSCN

Botox is a popular cosmetic and therapeutic treatment that can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. While it’s a relatively quick treatment, usually only taking ten minutes, and requires little downtime, there are certain do’s and don’ts to remember for your aftercare.

Generally, Botox injections don’t require any recovery time, but always follow the instructions of a medical professional. Your injector is knowledgeable about the procedure, and together you can reveal your natural beauty.

WHAT TO DO AFTER A BOTOX INJECTION

Botox will typically take effect in 2–5 days, with the full results visible in about two weeks. These first few days are the most crucial time after your treatment, so ensure you follow the proper steps in aftercare.

DO EXERCISE THE TREATED AREAS

Cosmetically, Botox is used in the glabellar region between the eyebrows and around the eyes. 

DO REMAIN SITTING UPRIGHT

Avoid laying down for at least 4 hours after your Botox injections. Laying down could cause the injection to spread.

It’s best to avoid sleeping immediately after your Botox injections as well. Other than sleeping involving laying down, it can also put pressure on your injection side and cause the Botox to spread to unintended areas. With facial injections, avoid sleeping on your face for the first night to allow it to spread properly into your muscles.

DO INFORM YOUR MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL ABOUT ANY MEDICATIONS

Certain medications, such as Advil and Aspirin and even vitamins/supplements can potentiate bruising. Let your provider know if you take any blood thinning medications.  Twenty-four hours is usually a safe window to wait before taking these medications, but make sure you ask your injector when it’s safe to take certain medications again.

WHAT NOT TO DO AFTER A BOTOX INJECTION

Now that you know the best things to do after your Botox injection, let’s discuss some activities you should avoid.

DO NOT ENGAGE IN STRENUOUS EXERCISE FOR 24 HOURS

While exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle, it also increases blood flow. This increase in blood flow can cause the Botox injection to spread to unintended areas and reduce its overall effectiveness. It could also increase the risk of bruising and swelling.

While facial exercises are okay, refrain from strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after injection.

DO NOT WEAR MAKEUP

While there’s nothing inherently wrong with wearing makeup after a Botox injection, it can increase the risk of infection and migration. You should avoid rubbing the skin as it can potentially disperse the injection and can increase the chances of infection. 

DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL

Much like anticoagulant medications, alcohol is a blood thinner. You’ll want to avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after the procedure. Anything that thins your blood increases the risk of bruising around the injection site.

DO NOT HAVE OTHER SKIN TREATMENTS

Avoid other skin treatments requiring touching the site for at least 24 hours after your Botox injection. These treatments include massages, facials, exfoliating scrubs, and dermal fillers. If you have one such treatment booked, consider moving it to a week after the injection date.

DO NOT SPEND TOO MUCH TRIME IN THE SUN OR OTHER HOT ENVIRONMENTS

Heat can promote flushing in your skin and increase your blood pressure. Both of these conditions could cause bruising around your injection site. You should avoid direct sunlight for at least 4 hours, but you could do it anywhere from 24–48 hours to be safe.

As well, avoid any of these activities:

  • Saunas
  • Hot tubs
  • Tanning beds
  • Hot showers

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OF BOTOX INJECTIONS

After getting a Botox injection, it’s possible to notice a few side effects, including:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Sensitivity
  • Redness

These side effects normally last for a day and can be treated with a pack of ice for relief. However, contact a medical professional if these side effects don’t fade. Although severe side effects are rare, they do warrant medical attention.

MAINTAIN YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY WITH AISTHETIKOS

With proper aftercare, Botox should be a safe and effective means of enhancing your natural beauty and letting the real you shine through.If you’re interested in learning more about Botox injections, contact our expert team at Aisthetikos for a free consultation.