Botox is a cosmetic procedure used for facial skin treatment. The drug is injected to freeze facial muscles, reducing wrinkles and fine lines to leave your skin smooth. Botox treatment prevents muscle contractions in the face and is a popular procedure among people looking to keep their skin younger. If it is your first time coming across this treatment, you must learn some dos and don’ts to make sure the procedure is safe and effective.
Botox Treatment Dos
You must maintain a particular lifestyle to make sure the Botox treatment is effective. Gentle exercise and rest are required to achieve the desired results. Other Botox best practices include the following:
Use Ice
You may experience side effects, including swelling and discomfort around the injected areas. Applying ice gently around these regions can help you minimize swelling and pain. Take caution not to put pressure when using ice.
Prepare Well
Proper preparation is key to achieving the desired Botox results. Avoid alcohol use at least 24 hours before the injection. You should also avoid using blood-thinning medication to prevent bruises and redness after the procedure.
Don’t Lie Down
Stay upright for at least five hours after the treatment to prevent bruising and the spread of toxins to other areas.
Get Treatment From a Professional
The most critical Botox treatment best practice is ensuring you have the procedure performed only by a qualified professional. This process requires precision when placing the needle, and only a professional can achieve this to make sure that nothing goes wrong.
Botox Treatment Don’ts
Botox treatment is a simple procedure, but it can go wrong quickly if you do not take the necessary precaution. Your routine and lifestyle can impact its efficiency, and here are what you should avoid making it more effective.
Avoid Touching Your Face
You might be tempted to massage or rub your face after receiving a Botox injection, primarily due to itching. Avoid putting pressure on treated areas to reduce bruising.
Do Not Exercise Immediately
You can continue your daily tasks after a Botox injection, but you will have to wait for at least 24 hours to resume physical exercise. Medium- to high-intensity workouts increase blood flow, which can lead to redness or bruising. Avoiding exercise also helps you prevent bruising around the injected areas. Gentle exercise that does not interfere with your blood flow is okay.
Avoid Other Facial Treatment Procedures
Restrain from using other facial treatment procedures for at least a day after Botox treatment. This includes wearing makeup. These processes can lead to bruising or the spread of toxins.
Keep Out of the Sun
Exposure to direct sunlight increases blood pressure and can also lead to skin flushing. The effects can create and worsen bruises after the procedure. Stay out of the sun for at least 48 hours to prevent these problems. You must also avoid saunas, hot baths, and tanning beds.
Don’t Take Alcohol
Avoiding blood-thinners is part of preparing yourself for a Botox procedure. This includes alcohol. You should also avoid alcohol 24 hours after the injection to prevent bruising.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Following Botox aftercare is the best way to make sure the procedure is effective while preventing severe side effects. See a dermatologist or physician immediately if you notice these signs and symptoms:
- Blurry vision
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching or wheezing
- Problems controlling your bladder
- Muscle weakness or loss of muscle strength
- Difficulty in breathing, speech, or swallowing
- Voice hoarseness when speaking
These symptoms are rare side effects that can appear weeks after the surgery. As much as most symptoms are mild, some can be severe, requiring immediate attention. Talk to your physician about any concerns about the treatment and side effects.
The Bottom Line
Wrinkles and fine lines can reduce your confidence. Getting Botox treatment helps you rejuvenate your facial skin without interrupting your daily life. You can return to most daily activities after the surgery without risking complications. While you may need to avoid some activities, recovery is always smooth and prompt. Follow these Botox aftercare tips to get the results you’re looking for. Call a physician when you notice symptoms or feel uneasy before and after the procedure.
