Whether it’s your first time getting Botox, you’re an injection veteran, or you’re trying a new procedure, it’s important to remember what not to do after your Botox injection. Avoiding certain activities will considerably increase the effectiveness of your Botox treatment.
No alcohol consumption. Alcohol can thin your blood and dilate facial muscles, increasing your risk for bleeding and bruising. Alcohol can also cause dehydration, which can negatively impact your recovery. Wait 24 hours post-injection to consume any adult beverages.
Switch to decaf. Caffeine can also cause dehydration, and should be consumed in small amounts, if at all, for the first 24 hours after your procedure. Caffeine also increases your heart rate and blood flow, which can potentially cause Botox to break down more quickly, before it has the desired effect on the area in which it was injected.
Avoid the gym. Make the day of and the day after your injection your rest days. Strenuous exercise can strain the muscles and nerves in your face, preventing the Botox from settling in correctly. Also, much like caffeine, vigorous exercise increases your heart rate, which should be avoided as mentioned above. A leisurely walk around the block is the most you should do until 24 hours post-procedure.
Hands off your face. Avoid touching your face in any way for the first 24 hours after treatment, including washing and applying lotions, serums, and other skin treatments. This literal hands-off approach allows the Botox to properly set into your muscles and can prevent swelling and bruising. In addition, do not get facials or head massages for the first 24 hours after your injection. You should also avoid wearing makeup on the day of your injection, as well as the day after.
Put down the Ibuprofen. Do not take NSAID pain relievers, such as Ibuprofen, or blood thinners such as Aspirin for 24 hours before and after your Botox treatment. These types of medications can cause swelling, bleeding, and bruising. If you’re feeling pain or discomfort after getting Botox, take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) instead.
Stay cool. Avoid heat for the first 24 hours after your Botox treatment. This includes hot showers, saunas, tanning beds, sun bathing, hot tubs, and steam rooms. Raising your body’s temperature right after a Botox injection can dilate blood vessels and increase bruising.
Keep your head held high. It is best to avoid sleeping or laying down for the first four hours after a Botox injection, so plan your appointment accordingly. Laying down puts pressure on your face and any areas that were treated with Botox. This can negatively affect the diffusion of the botox into your muscles. You should avoid situations in which you might bend over, such as gardening or shopping for shoes, for four hours post-injection.
Back is best. Though it might be challenging, it is important to avoid sleeping on an area that was recently injected with Botox. Lying on your face can prevent Botox from effectively settling into your muscles. The good news is that you only need to avoid side and stomach-sleeping for the first night post-injection.
Check out the following article for more information about what not to do after Botox in Scottsdale, AZ!