Botox Aftercare: Dos and Don'ts From an Injector

The short answer: After Botox, follow your injector's instructions, keep your hands off the injection sites, and give it time, since results build gradually. Small bumps, redness, or a tiny bruise at injection points are common and short-lived. Problems swallowing, speaking, or breathing are rare but serious, so get medical help right away if they happen.

Dos

  • Do follow your injector's specific instructions. Many injectors ask patients to stay upright and avoid rubbing the area for the rest of the day; ask yours what they recommend.
  • Do use a cold compress if a tiny bruise appears, as directed by your provider.
  • Do book your follow-up so your injector can check your result.

Don'ts

  • Don't massage or press on injection sites unless your injector tells you to.
  • Don't schedule a facial, peel, or other facial procedure right after without asking your injector.
  • Don't judge your result on day one. It takes time for the full effect to show.

Rare but serious: when to get help

The FDA-approved Botox Cosmetic medication guide warns that problems swallowing, speaking, or breathing, and spread of toxin effects (such as muscle weakness, double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, or voice changes), can happen hours, days, to weeks after an injection. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of these (FDA: Botox Cosmetic Medication Guide).

Where Post Love fits

I created FADED, a hemp extract + arnica cream, as a soothing, comforting step for my own patients after injections, and our Mint Lip Balm (with SPF 15) to keep lips hydrated and protected. They're cosmetic comfort products, not a substitute for your injector's instructions. Ask your provider before applying anything to freshly injected skin.

FAQ

Can I work out after Botox?

Ask your injector. Many recommend waiting until the next day.

Is a small bruise after Botox normal?

A tiny bruise at an injection point can happen. Use a cold compress as directed and call your injector if it is large or very painful.

When should I get medical help after Botox?

Right away if you have trouble swallowing, speaking, or breathing, or new muscle weakness, vision changes, or drooping eyelids.

— Brooke Nichol, RN, aesthetic injector and Post Love co-founder

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Post Love products are cosmetics and are not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is general information, not medical advice; always follow your own provider's aftercare instructions.

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