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AFTERCARE:
for Cosmetic Injectables

Whether you’re new to cosmetic injectables or a seasoned client, proper aftercare is essential to ensure optimal results and minimize side effects. Following a few simple guidelines can help your skin heal beautifully and maintain a refreshed, natural look.

Here’s what you need to know after your treatment with dermal fillers or anti-wrinkle injections like Botox.

General Aftercare Tips

(Applies to all cosmetic injectables)

DO:

  • Stay upright for at least 4 hours after treatment (reduces swelling and ensures product remains where placed).

  • Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support skin healing.

  • Use gentle skincare products; avoid harsh exfoliants or active ingredients for 24–48 hours.

  • Apply a cold compress (wrapped in a clean cloth) to reduce swelling and bruising (if advised)

AVOID:

  • Touching or massaging the treated areas. Sometimes there may be unevenness, and this is usually down to swelling around the product. Please DO NOT massage (unless instructed by your practitioner).

  • Intense exercise or sweating for 24 hours.

  • Coffee and alcohol 24 post treatment. Both thin the blood and can promote bruising.

  • Makeup application for 12–24 hours, especially around injection sites.

  • Heat exposure (saunas, hot tubs, tanning beds) for 48 hours.

  • Facials, chemical peels, or laser treatments for at least 1–2 weeks.

Specific Aftercare for Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers add volume and structure to areas like the lips, cheeks, and jawline. Post-treatment care helps reduce swelling and support product settling.

Recommended Products for Dermal Filler Aftercare:

  • Arnica Cream or Gel (e.g., Arnica Gel): Helps minimize bruising and swelling.

  • Hydrating Serums (e.g., The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5): Maintains skin hydration.

  • Gentle Moisturizer: (e.g., CeraVe moisturiser): Soothes and protects healing skin.

  • SPF 30+ Sunscreen (e.g., Balense SPF): Protects treated areas from UV damage.

Swelling and mild bruising can last 3–7 days. Results typically refine over 2-4 weeks.

Specific Aftercare for Anti-Wrinkle Injections (Botox, Dysport, etc.)

Anti-wrinkle injections temporarily relax muscles to smooth fine lines, especially on the forehead, frown lines, and crow’s feet.

Recommended Products for Botox Aftercare:

  • Fragrance-Free Cleanser (e.g., Azclear; Balense; CeraVe): Non-irritating and safe post-treatment.

  • Lightweight Moisturizer: Keeps skin calm and hydrated.

  • SPF 30+ Sunscreen: Essential for maintaining youthful skin and preventing sun damage.

  • Avoid retinol or active ingredients for 48hrs.

You may begin to see results in 3–5 days, with full effect visible by 10–14 days. Avoid lying down or bending forward for 4 hours after your injections.

When to Contact Your Practitioner

While side effects like mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising are common, seek professional advice if you notice:

  • Increasing pain or redness

  • Lumps or nodules that persist

  • Signs of infection (fever, pus, heat)

  • Visual disturbances (in rare filler complications)

 

Final Thoughts

Aftercare is just as important as the treatment itself. With a little planning and the right products, you can support a smooth recovery and get the most out of your cosmetic injectable results.

Tip: Always follow the specific aftercare advice given by your practitioner, as every treatment and individual is different.

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