Aftercare is very important following your Botox or dermal filler appointment. Once we have completed the injections, you’ll probably feel and see some bruising, swelling, tenderness, redness or itching. You don’t have to worry – all of these side effects are normal!
Even if these effects are natural, there’s a lot you can do to decrease the pain and discomfort. Botox and dermal filler aftercare also keep your results looking their best for as long as possible!
Why Is Botox Aftercare So Important?
Aftercare reduces the amount of bruising and swelling from the injection sites. Injections slightly damage the small blood vessels under the skin, causing bruising and an inflammatory response to the treatment area. These side effects are natural, and all clients should expect them following the injection.
Aftercare not only for your comfort: it can make your treatment more effective and long-lasting, too. By taking the proper steps after your Botox or dermal filler appointment, you can encourage the look and maintenance of your aesthetic treatment.
Don’t worry – aftercare is easy! To reduce the discomfort and maintain your treated areas, please follow the instructions below!
What To Do (& Avoid) After Your Dermal Filler
You can start your aftercare almost immediately upon the completion of your treatment. Within the first hour, you can apply ice to reduce the discomfort; the cold temperature constricts blood vessels, decreasing circulation to the injection area.
As well, take acetaminophen to reduce pain as necessary. It has to be an acetaminophen product like Tylenol, as these over-the-counter pain relievers will not thin your blood like ibuprofen (aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, etc.). Ibuprofen will exacerbate bruising and other side effects. Antihistamines – the medications you take for allergies – can also help alleviate any swelling.
You can use sunscreen and makeup on the area after a few hours, washing it with a gentle cleanser. In fact, we want you to wear sunscreen: it’s essential for the look and health of your skin all the time! Keep it handy so you can re-apply your sunscreen after every four hours of sun exposure.
For Botox, try to exercise your treated muscles for the first hour after treatment – practise frowning, raising your eyebrows, or squinting. It can help work the Botox into your muscles. Do not, however, rub your face or massage the spot after treatment.
You Have Natural Options, Too!
Ice isn’t the only natural treatment option for Botox and dermal filler aftercare. Here’s what Mother Nature can provide for you!
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant that’s vital for immune function, and it can have positive effects on the skin! It strengthens the skin, improves its texture, and its immune-boosting benefits can help with wound healing, collagen building, and skin cell protection.
- Try Arnica. Arnica is a homeopathic herb that many people find effective at reducing inflammation, swelling, and bruising. You can find Arnica in tablets or as a topical ointment at specialty health stores, pharmacies, or in the natural section of your grocery store.
- Bromelain is an enzyme known to break down dead skin cells and help you shed them more effectively. It’s also great for reducing inflammation and swelling! Pineapple is very high in bromelain, so consume it in the hours and days following your appointment.
- Drink water! Hydration rejuvenates the skin by speeding cellular turnover, so drinking water will keep it looking fresh, young, and healthy.
Take our word for it: any bumps, bruising, pain, or marks will go away within a few hours or days after your treatment. Look past them and at the beautiful results instead! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to talk to your registered nurse injector for more about your individual treatment aftercare needs.
