What to Avoid After Botox
Do you find yourself wondering what to avoid after Botox? Here are six examples of what you should avoid after Botox that can reduce its effectiveness:
- Rubbing Your Face
The injection site may be sore after treatment and although the pain can subside quickly, it is still very sensitive. One of the biggest things that you should avoid after Botox is rubbing the area where Botox was injected until fully healed. It can irritate it, prolonging redness and even causing bruising. Rubbing your face can even spread Botox to neighboring muscles creating an undesired result that could last a few months.
- Putting Pressure on Your Face
Although you may want to take a nap after your Botox treatment, it’s essential that you keep your face upright for at least six hours. You will want to avoid leaning forward or looking down during this time too, as this could put pressure on the injection site, preventing Botox from staying in the correct muscles and nerves. It could also lead to redness and bruising at the injection site as well.
- Strenuous Exercise
One of the questions about Botox that we commonly receive is, “Does exercise affect Botox?” The answer is yes. You should always avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after your Botox treatment. A big workout, other strenuous activity, or even yoga, could unknowingly cause you to strain facial muscles. Excessive movement of these muscles can prevent Botox from settling properly. Increased blood flow can spread Botox to the incorrect muscles as well. Keep activities light such as a leisurely walk.
- Skip the Wine and Other Blood Thinners
Many people are unaware of the fact that alcohol can thin your blood. You need to wait at least 24 hours before consuming any type of alcohol because of the risk of bleeding and bruising after your injection. No night caps on the day of treatment. Blood thinners, aspirin, and NSAID pain relievers all increase your risk for bruising or bleeding as well.
- Miss Washing Your Face
Washing your face or applying moisturizer is important for skin health but skipping one day isn’t going to damage your skin. However, washing or applying lotion within six hours after Botox injections could damage the effectiveness of your Botox appointment. Washing or moisturizing would require you to rub your face and could potentially lead to redness and bruising. You should also skip the make-up for at least 12-24 hours after your treatment.
- Avoid Heat and Sun
Heat and sun can inflame your skin. This can prolong redness and swelling. When you do go outside, be sure to wear a hat. It is also important to avoid heat lamps, tanning beds, and the sun itself for at least 24 hours after your injection. You should also avoid hot showers, saunas, facials, and cooking over a hot stove during that time.
Aftercare for Botox
It is good practice to mildly exercise your facial muscles by smiling, frowning, and raising your eyebrows for the first hour after your treatment. This can help the Botox soak into the proper muscles and may help to achieve results faster. After that first hour, it is important to avoid excessive facial expressions. While there is no down time after Botox, it is important to keep your head level for the first 6 hours. If your normal activities are strenuous then you may need a day to relax after Botox, however most can return to work immediately after treatment. This is best to discuss your individual needs with your Botox technician.
The Laser Café loves helping our San Diego clients achieve youthful beauty. Contact us today for a Botox consultation in San Diego.
Testimonial from Brittany, Satisfied Botox Client
I have been coming here for several months and have always had a wonderful experience. Everyone is very professional and the appointments are so quick and effective! They also offer lots of great deals monthly or as a member, so it is really affordable. Highly recommend!
