Botox injections have become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments for reducing expression lines . However, many people wonder how this procedure might affect their daily routine, particularly when it comes to exercise. Is it possible to continue physical activity after receiving Botox? What types of movements or workouts should be avoided?
Before discussing Botox and physical activity, it’s important to understand how Botox works. Botox, or botulinum toxin type A, is a neurotoxin that blocks nerve signals responsible for muscle contractions. When injected into muscles, it helps relax them by treating dynamic wrinkles, such as forehead lines, frown lines (glabellar lines), and crow’s feet.
The effects of Botox are temporary and typically last between 3 and 6 months, depending on each patient’s metabolism. However, initial results appear within a few days, as the toxin begins to take effect.
Le succès des injections de Botox repose sur plusieurs facteurs, dont l’un des plus importants est de suivre les instructions post-traitement données par votre médecin à la fin de la séance. Parmi ces recommandations, l’activité physique après les injections de Botox est souvent un sujet de discussion.
You can continue exercising after Botox injections , but certain precautions and waiting times must be observed to avoid side effects.
Botox needs time to properly bind to the targeted muscles. After an injection, the product can move slightly if excessive movements or pressure are applied to the treated areas. Exercising too soon after an injection may cause the toxin to spread to unintended areas, which could affect aesthetic results or lead to unwanted side effects such as eyelid ptosis (drooping of the eyelid).
Moreover, intense physical activity can increase blood circulation and boost metabolism, which may reduce the effectiveness of Botox by accelerating its absorption by the body.
It is recommended to wait 24 to 48 hours before resuming physical activity after a Botox injection. This period allows the toxin to properly bind to the muscles and helps minimize the risk of migration. However, this timeframe may vary depending on the intensity of the activity and the areas injected. Here are some guidelines :
Some physical activities are more likely to affect Botox injections. Here’s an overview of sports practices that should be avoided in the hours or days following treatment.
Intense workouts : activities such as running, CrossFit, or any form of intense cardio can significantly increase heart rate and blood flow. This may not only accelerate the breakdown of Botox but also cause the toxin to move slightly to non-targeted areas. It is advisable to wait at least 48 hours before resuming this type of exercise.
Sports involving facial pressure : certain activities, like yoga or Pilates, involve postures where the head is positioned downward or pressure is applied to the face. This can increase the risk of Botox migration. It is recommended to wait 72 hours before resuming these activities.
Swimming and saunas : after Botox injections, heat may accelerate the degradation of the toxin, reducing the treatment’s effectiveness. This is why swimming (especially in heated pools), saunas, steam baths, or any other activity exposing the face to intense heat should be avoided within 48 hours of the treatment.
If exercise is an important part of your daily routine, it is entirely possible to continue being active while optimizing the results of your Botox injections. Here are some tips to adapt your workout:
Optez pour des exercices doux : pendant les 24 à 48 heures suivant vos injections de Botox, privilégiez des exercices doux tels que la marche, les étirements légers ou des exercices de respiration. Ces activités n’augmenteront pas trop la circulation sanguine et ne risquent pas de compromettre les résultats du traitement.
Avoid touching or rubbing your face : during your workouts, be careful not to touch or rub the injected areas. Botox needs time to settle, and any pressure on the treated areas may affect the outcome. Also avoid using towels or headbands that could put pressure on the forehead or around the eyes.
Hydratez-vous et protégez votre peau : le sport et les activités en plein air peuvent entraîner une déshydratation, qui peut avoir un impact sur le métabolisme cutané. Assurez-vous de bien vous hydrater avant, pendant et après l’exercice pour conserver une peau souple et en bonne santé.
If Botox injections are combined with hyaluronic acid injections, following the recommended precautions regarding physical activity becomes even more important.
Dans ce cas, il est recommandé d’attendre environ 48 heures avant de reprendre une activité physique intense.
Article written by Dr Romano Valeria
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
