Getting BOTOX® Cosmetic injections is a quick, effective way to smooth expression lines and refresh your appearance without surgery. While your injector’s skill is the most important factor in achieving great results, how you care for your face in the hours and days after your appointment also plays an essential role. Our team wants to ensure you love your results—and that starts with understanding what NOT to do after BOTOX.
We’re breaking down BOTOX recovery below and sharing what to avoid to ensure you love your youthful look for as long as possible.
BOTOX Recovery Basics
Unlike facial plastic surgery, which requires formal downtime, recovery after BOTOX is typically quick and easy. Most people can return to daily activities immediately. You might experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection sites, but these effects usually subside within a few hours to a few days. The results of BOTOX gradually appear over 3 to 7 days and can last 3 to 4 months, depending on the area treated and your metabolism and lifestyle.
It’s important to recognize, however, that your actions 24 to 48 hours after treatment affect how well the product works and how long your results last. That’s why following our aftercare instructions—and knowing what not to do after BOTOX—is so essential.
Hands Off! Don’t Rub, Press, or Massage the Treated Area
It can be tempting to touch or massage the area, especially if you feel some swelling or tightness. However, doing so may cause BOTOX to migrate to unintended muscles, leading to uneven results or drooping. Unnecessary touching or rubbing may also increase the risk of skin irritation or redness, so we encourage you to resist the urge to touch the treated areas. The same advice holds after filler treatment.
Instead: For at least 24 hours post-treatment, avoid applying pressure to your face—including rubbing, massaging, or even wearing tight-fitting hats or glasses that press on the treated area.
Don’t Lie Down Right Away
How long after BOTOX can you lie down? You’ll want to stay upright for at least 4 hours after your injections. Lying down too soon can increase the risk of the BOTOX shifting, impacting how and where it works.
Instead: Schedule your appointment when you can comfortably remain upright for a few hours afterward—there’s a reason BOTOX is referred to as a “lunchtime ” treatment instead of a “nap time” treatment!
Don’t Exercise for the First 24 Hours
While we are big proponents of healthy exercise, high-intensity workouts like Spin and HIIT classes are a no-go immediately after BOTOX. Strenuous activity increases blood flow and facial movement, both of which may cause the product to spread from the injection site before it fully settles.
Instead: Give your body a short break. We promise you’ll be back to your fitness routine in no time.
Skip Happy Hour (For Now)
Studies show that alcohol can thin the blood and increase your risk of bruising at the injection sites. Therefore, it’s best to avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after BOTOX treatment.
Instead: Staying hydrated with water is a safer bet and can help minimize swelling.
Avoid Saunas and Excess Heat
After your injections, avoid exposing your face to high heat—whether from saunas, hot yoga, or steamy showers—for 24 to 48 hours. High temperatures may increase blood circulation, dilate blood vessels, and potentially increase the risk of swelling or bruising.
Instead: Give it 24 to 48 hours before exposing your face to heat.
Hold Off on the Post-Injection Makeup
We understand you may be eager to camouflage post-BOTOX redness, but it’s important to wait a bit before using cosmetics. How long after BOTOX can you wear makeup? We recommend waiting at least 4 to 6 hours before applying makeup. When you do, be gentle—no rubbing or heavy blending.
Instead: Give your skin some time to refresh and rejuvenate—your refreshed results will show through beautifully! Our medical-grade skincare products help you maintain your vibrant look between treatments.
Don’t Hop on a Flight Too Soon
Can you fly after BOTOX? Yes, but don’t pack your bags too hastily! While shorter road trips are fine, pressure changes in the cabin and prolonged airplane sitting can slightly increase swelling or bruising. It’s best to give your body a little time before air travel.
Instead: Plan your injections at least 24 hours before airplane travel.
Let’s Plan Your Treatment
By avoiding post-treatment pitfalls and following your aftercare instructions, you’ll help your BOTOX settle properly. That’s the key to achieving the smooth, youthful results you’re hoping for.
Are you ready to let our expert injectors map out your treatment plan? Check out these helpful BOTOX FAQs and contact us using the online form. You can also call us at (707) 544-3232 to get started. We can’t wait to help you look and feel more confident and refreshed!
