Botox procedures are relatively straightforward, involving the judicious injections of Botox into the particular muscles that need to be relaxed to eliminate the lines and wrinkles being treated. Despite this, to get the best results it’s important to follow the instructions that your practitioner asks you to follow after each treatment. Although these instructions may vary, they typically include the following do’s and don’ts.
Avoid Massaging the Treated Area
You should avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area for about 24 hours after treatment. This includes resisting the temptation to touch the treated area, and certainly means avoiding anything more energetic, such as a facial. The main concern is the possibility that some of the injected Botox might migrate to untreated parts of the face, possibly resulting in unwanted muscle weakness in these areas. This side-effect is unlikely, but easily avoided by following this advice.
Although in theory it’s ok to apply powdered makeup right after treatment, it’s important not to massage the makeup into the skin for at least 24 hours after treatment. If possible, just avoid all makeup for the first day.
Avoid Vigorous Exercises
Try to maintain a normal heart rate, and avoid vigorous exercises that might boost your pulse or blood pressure. In other words, just take it easy for the rest of the day.
Avoid Lying Down
Try to stay upright for at least 4 hours after treatment, and especially avoid lying on your face. Doing so could cause blood to pool, which could in turn result in the swelling of the treated area. The objective is to minimize the swelling, and avoid accidently rubbing your face, which risks causing the Botox to migrate away from its intended area.
Some doctors advise trying to sleep on your back the night after a treatment – again trying to avoid moving Botox around if you move too much during the first night.
Avoid Tight Headwear
Don’t wear anything tight across the forehead – in general try to avoid wearing anything that might apply pressure to the treated area, including headbands.
Avoid Alcohol or Strong Painkillers
It’s best to avoid anything that might thin your blood, as well as any anti-inflammatory painkillers and alcohol for 24 to 48 hours after treatment. Your skin might bruise immediately after Botox treatment, and alcohol or painkillers will increase the chance of this happening. Dizziness is an occasional side-effect of a Botox treatment, and drinking alcohol can make this more likely.
Your Laser Skin Care
Your Laser Skin Care practitioners are medically qualified, and highly experienced in the use of Botox for cosmetic purposes. We provide expert advice on the best techniques to address your particular concerns, and will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about our procedures. We also have extensive experience with a wide variety of non-invasive cosmetic procedures and can help you choose the safest, most effective, and most cost-effective way to achieve your cosmetic goals. Call us at (323) 525-1516 to schedule a free consultation, or visit us online for more information.
