Precautions after Botox injection

What should you do or not do after a Botox injection?

Botox injections have become a very popular aesthetic treatment to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. wrinkles and expression lines and rejuvenate the face without surgery. Although Botox injections are considered safe and relatively straightforward, it is essential to follow the post-treatment instructions given by your doctor to optimise results and minimise the risk of complications. Whether you're a novice or a regular patient, understanding what you should and shouldn't do after a Botox injection is crucial.
In this article, we'll explain in detail how to care for your skin after Botox injections, what absolutely must be avoided, and the best practices to adopt.

Why is it important to follow the instructions after Botox injections?

Post-treatment instructions after a Botox injection are essential to ensure that the product stays in place and works properly in the targeted muscles. Following good practice can :

  • Prevent Botox from migrating to other undesirable areas.
  • Minimise the risk of side effects such as bruising or swelling.
  • Optimise results by ensuring that the product works effectively to reduce wrinkles and fine lines.

Although Botox is a non-invasive treatment with little downtime, it is essential to take certain precautions after the injections to avoid any adverse effects and ensure optimum results.

What to do after a Botox injection

  • Remain in an upright position for the first 4 hours: After a Botox injection, it is recommended that you remain in an upright position for at least 4 hours. This gives the product time to bind properly to the targeted muscles and reduces the risk of migration to other areas of the face. Avoid lying down, bending over or making any movements that require you to lower your head during this period.
  • Use skin-friendly products: it's essential to continue taking care of your skin after a Botox injection. Use gentle cleansers, fragrance-free moisturisers and sunscreens to protect your skin.
  • Follow your doctor's instructions: your doctor will provide you with specific recommendations tailored to your particular case. Follow these instructions carefully.

Incorrect instructions

Certain post-treatment instructions are provided by certain doctors but should be avoided as they may cause complications.

  • Apply ice to reduce swelling: applying ice to the treated area causes the product to move. Other muscles may then be blocked, leading to the appearance of side effects.
  • Move your facial muscles: although it is important not to massage or rub the injected areas, it can be helpful to gently move the treated facial muscles, such as frowning, smiling or raising your eyebrows, for about an hour after the injection. This can help the Botox integrate into the targeted muscles and improve its effectiveness. In fact, movement can displace the Botox.
  • Hydrate well: Drink plenty of water to help your body recover after treatment. Good hydration can help minimise potential side effects, such as headaches.
    In reality, hydration has no influence. Staying well hydrated is important for your general health.

What not to do after a Botox injection?

  • Do not touch, rub or massage the treated areas: After a Botox injection, it is essential not to touch, rub or massage the treated areas for at least 24 hours. Touching the area can cause the Botox to migrate to non-target muscles, which can lead to undesirable results such as facial asymmetry or sagging eyelids.
  • Avoid exercise for 48 hours: physical activity, including running, weight training, or any activity that increases blood flow or causes head movements, should be avoided for at least 48 hours after treatment.
    An increase in blood circulation could cause the Botox to disperse, reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of bruising.
    The heat associated with increased blood circulation and head movements can cause Botox to migrate.
  • No saunas, steam rooms or hot baths for 48 hours: hot environments such as saunas, steam rooms and hot baths should be avoided for at least 48 hours after Botox. Heat can dilate blood vessels and increase the risk of product migration or bruising.
  • Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours: alcohol can increase the occurrence of bruising and swelling by dilating the blood vessels. To minimise these risks, avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after your Botox treatment.
  • Do not take anti-inflammatory drugs without medical advice: some anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising after Botox injections. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication after your treatment to avoid any interactions or undesirable effects.
  • Avoid facials and massages for a week: facials, massages and treatments such as microneedling or chemical peels should be avoided for at least a week after a Botox injection. These treatments can cause inflammation, compromise results and cause side effects.
  • Do not wear helmets or tight-fitting hats: accessories that exert pressure on the injected area, such as helmets or tight-fitting hats, should be avoided for 24 hours after treatment. Excessive pressure could cause the Botox to move.

 

How long does it take to see results from Botox?

Botox works gradually to relax the muscles responsible for wrinkles.
The first results of Botox begin to be visible 3 to 5 days after the injection, but the full effects are visible 7 days later. A follow-up consultation, for a free touch-up, is scheduled one to three weeks after the initial injection to optimise the result and correct any asymmetries.

How long do the effects of Botox last?

The effects of Botox generally last between 3 and 6 months, depending on the area treated, individual metabolism and the dose used. With regular treatments, the results can sometimes last longer, as the muscles gradually weaken over time. To maintain results, it is advisable to schedule maintenance injections every 5 to 6 months, depending on your needs and aesthetic goals.

What should I do if I have side effects after a Botox injection?

Although rare, certain side effects may occur after a Botox injection, such as headaches, swelling, bruising or slight facial asymmetry. Most of these effects are temporary and disappear on their own within a few days.

Here's what you can do if you experience side effects.

  • Take Arnica for bruises. However, these are very small and rare.
  • Take painkillers such as paracetamol to relieve headaches, but avoid anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin unless your doctor tells you to.
  • Consult your doctor if you have any concerns or if the side effects persist beyond a few days.

Swelling resolves spontaneously within 10 minutes. Any asymmetries are corrected at the touch-up appointment.

It is crucial to choose an experienced doctor to minimise the risk of complications and achieve optimum results.