Botox is a popular cosmetic procedure many turn to for a more youthful appearance. It’s most commonly used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and its effects can last several months. However, it is crucial to understand that there are certain things you should not do after having treatment with Botox.
For the best possible results after your Botox injections, you should refrain from touching or rubbing your face, avoid alcohol and blood thinners before injections, and avoid strenuous exercise for 12-24 hours after treatment. Whether you’re new to Botox injections or get frequent touch-ups, proper aftercare can make a difference in final results.
What Is Botox?
Botox is a brand name for a type of neurotoxin used primarily for cosmetic purposes, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. The toxin is derived from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum and works by temporarily relaxing overactive facial muscles that lend to the formation of these fine lines and wrinkles.
Botox injections are a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment administered by a trained healthcare professional. It’s important to note that while Botox is considered safe when used appropriately, it does carry some risks and potential side effects.
What Can Botox Treat?
Botox can be used to treat various medical conditions in addition to its cosmetic uses. Some of the medical conditions that Botox can treat include:
- Migraines and tension headaches
- TMJD pain
- Myofascial pain
- Facial Neuralgia (Trigeminal Nerve)
- Excessive sweating (Hyperhidrosis)
- Treat the effects of Bell’s palsy
- Blepharospasm, Hemifacial Spasm
For cosmetic purposes, Botox is incredibly versatile and can help smooth fine lines and wrinkles in several areas of your face, including:
- Eyebrow Furrow
- Forehead
- Crow’s Feet
- Lips
- Chin
- Jawline
- Neck cords and fine lines
What to Avoid After Botox
After your Botox injections, you can support optimal results with quality aftercare. One benefit of Botox is that you don’t need any recovery time before resuming regular activities—however, there are a few habits to avoid for the first 24 hours after your treatment.
Avoid Touching or Rubbing the Treated Area
After having Botox, avoid touching the areas injected to avoid possible infection and migration of the product.
Refrain from Intense Exercise for at Least 12-24 Hours
While exercise is generally good for you, avoiding strenuous exercise for 12-24 hours after having Botox treatment is important because intense physical activity can increase blood flow to injection sites lending to inflammation or bruising along with unwanted migration to other muscle groups.
Light activities like walking and light household chores can be safe, but your medical professional will provide instructions based on your personalized treatment.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol and blood thinners can increase your risk of bleeding and bruising after receiving Botox. It’s best to avoid alcohol and any other blood thinners such as Multivitamins, Green Tea, Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Advil) and garlic to name a few for at least 48 hours before your treatment and for 24 hours after your appointment to reduce the risk of bruising.
Don’t Lay Down for at Least 4 Hours
After getting Botox, it is important to remain upright for at least 4 hours to prevent the product from migrating to other areas of your face. This means you should avoid lying down or sleeping for at least 4 hours after your appointment.
Don’t Schedule Facials or Other Cosmetic Procedures
In the days following your Botox treatment, it’s essential to avoid other cosmetic procedures including facials, facial massages, or assertive exfoliating scrub treatments for 2 weeks. This allows ample time for the Botox to take effect in the targeted muscles allowing for optimal results.
Regain a Youthful Appearance with Botox
In combination with other treatments, Botox can be an effective way to achieve a more youthful appearance, but practicing proper aftercare is key in helping you achieve your desired results. Visit the passionate team at Remington Laser Dermatology Centre for a consultation. Our team is happy to share both before and aftercare advice so you can feel confident in your treatment plan and your appearance between appointments.
