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It seems like almost everyone is getting Botox these days, whether it’s for anti-aging purposes or for unspecified benefits such as TMJ relief. And while it might seem as simple as going to your dermatologist and getting a quick fix, there are several things you need to keep in mind. after get Botox to make sure you get optimal results.
To begin with, there is a significant window of time after injections that you should be aware of. But there are also side effects that have been exaggerated by the internet.
To give you peace of mind, we spoke to two certified dermatologists to come up with a list of the things you shouldn’t do and others you shouldn’t worry about. Here is what you need to know.
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You can help yourself a drink
Some online blogs will warn people to refrain from drinking alcohol before and after receiving Botox to avoid bruising, but our experts say otherwise. “You can drink alcohol, however, this may slightly increase your risk of bleeding,” says Tiffany Libby, MD. However, if you’d rather be extra careful, she points out that drugs that interfere with clotting, such as fish oil, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, and vitamin E can also increase the risk of bleeding when you are sick. ‘they are taken in the following week. the procedure.
Don’t worry about lying down
When you are given Botox, some people think they shouldn’t bend over or lie down. “There is a hypothetical concern that Botox could migrate to other areas and have unintended effects on muscles other than their target,” says Dara Liotta, MD. “The volume of liquid and the amount of Botox injected with each needle stick is so small when Botox is used for cosmetic reasons on the face, that I don’t think any activity really matters.”
But don’t work
Dr Liotta says to avoid vigorous activity for three to four hours after receiving a Botox injection. Dr Libby reflects this recommendation: “While there are currently no controlled studies that support limitation of activity, avoidance of strenuous exercise, or pressure on injection sites – why risk it? To err on the side of caution, definitely take a day off and head back to the gym tomorrow.
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Do not massage the treated area after Botox
To avoid moving the Botox to unwanted places, Dr Libby says to refrain from massaging the treated area. This means that there are no jade rollers, gua sha, or other face sculpting tools. “In the same vein, I would like [also] Avoid using microcurrent devices for up to two weeks after the botulinum toxin has fully kicked in and any need for touch-ups is determined and completed, ”she says.
Don’t panic over the post-botox bumps and bruises
After the initial injections, small bumps may appear along the treated areas – this is normal. “The time it takes for them to go away can vary depending on an individual’s responsiveness, but usually go away within five to 20 minutes of the injection,” says Dr. Liotta.
Plus, although bruising is extremely rare, it can happen occasionally. “Fortunately, most post-treatment bruising is mild and goes away quickly within a few days,” says Dr. Libby. If you have bruises, she recommends applying topical arnica to speed recovery.
Be patient
The effects of Botox don’t happen immediately, so don’t worry if you still see movement in the treated area after a few days. “It may take between four and 10 days to see the full effect of your treatment,” says Dr. Liotta. Additionally, she says that since everyone’s facial structure is slightly different, touch-up treatments may be required and are usually done two weeks after the initial treatment.
