Each and every week we spend hours in front of the bathroom mirror applying all manner of creams and lotions to minimise the appearance of our crow’s feet, bunny lines, turkey neck… the list goes on! But what if there was a better way? Anti-wrinkle injections, such as Botox®, work on a muscular level by relaxing the facial muscles that cause fine lines. It only takes a couple of days for you to be able to see the results and once it’s done, The injections can last for months! You can prolong your results by following just a few simple rules. Find out everything you need to know about our dos and don’ts of anti-wrinkle injections at Thérapie Clinic.
Can you drink alcohol after Botox®?
Do not drink alcohol in the first 48 hours after your injections. Alcohol is a blood thinner, a no-no after Botox® as it can worsen any bruising that may occur after your treatment. While there isn’t always bruising, it’s not uncommon and you want to do everything in your power to minimise this. Alcohol will also raise your body temperature, which is to be avoided at all costs after your injections as heat will increase blood flow, which can disperse the Botox and lessen the length of time it will last.
Can you take Paracetamol after Botox®?
Yes, you can take paracetamol before and after injections but do not take any anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen. You should avoid taking Ibuprofen for 4 days before your treatment and after as it is an anticoagulant, meaning it stops the blood from clotting. This may increase the risk of swelling and bruising after Botox®. Other medications such as aspirin, St John’s Wort, and Vitamin E may cause any swelling or bruising to worsen. Your doctor will talk through your medication history with you at your consultation before starting any treatment.
Can you go in the sun after Botox®?
Do not expose your skin to the sun for at least 24 hours after your treatment. Heat from the sun can inflame the skin and cause prolonged redness and swelling to the treated area. If you do go out in the sun, wear a hat and sunscreen to protect your skin. Although we would say that is a general recommendation, not just after an anti-wrinkle treatment.
Can you wear makeup after Botox®?
Do not wear makeup for a minimum of 6 hours after Botox®.
To avoid the risk of infection it is best to not wear makeup or spray tan after Botox® to give the puncture site necessary time to heal.
Can you wash your hair/face after Botox®?
Yes, you can wash your hair and face after receiving Botox® injections.
As said above you should avoid using anything which may irritate the puncture site for at least 6 hours after your treatment. You should also avoid applying pressure to the treated area within the first 24 hours, so use a light touch when washing your face, avoid rubbing, and do not wear any tight garments such as a hair wrap or headband during this time.
Can you exercise after Botox®?
Do not undertake any physical exercise within the first 24 hours after receiving Botox® injections. Finally, an excuse not to exercise! Exercising will increase your body temperature and in turn increase the blood flow in the treatment area, this can exacerbate any swelling and cause migration of the Botox®, decreasing the amount of time it will last.
Although, we do recommend you perform some facial exercises within the first hour after treatment. Making pronounced facial expressions such as frowning, smiling, and raising your eyebrows will help the Botox® reach the cells it needs to work.
How long after Botox® can you lie down?
For optimal results you should remain upright for as long as possible; at least 2 hours following a Botox® treatment. Laying or bending down within the 2 hours after your treatment will create pressure and increase blood flow in the treated area which may cause the Botox® to disperse and therefore will not last as long.
Can you drive after Botox®?
Yes, you should be able to go about your normal daily routine immediately after Botox® injections. Botox® injections cause minimal discomfort and do not involve any anesthetic so you will be in no way incapacitated after the injections and free to drive yourself home.
Can you fly after Botox®?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to fly after receiving Botox® injections. Contrary to popular myths about cabin pressure affecting Botox® during flight, the air pressure within a plane cabin is like that on the ground. The only notable pressure difference is to the air surrounding the plane. So, unless your seat is out on the wing, it is safe to fly after Botox® injections.
Can you microneedle after Botox®?
Do not receive microneedling within 2 weeks of Botox®. You should also decline any facial massages or laser treatments within this time to ensure the treated area is free of irritants for as long as possible and that the solution does not spread.
Ready to start with your Botox journey? You can learn more by booking a free consultation with the Thérapie team in any one of our clinics.