Bruising after BOTOX injections or dermal fillers is a common side effect. Although it is little more than a temporary annoyance, it is completely understandable if you want to keep it to a bare minimum! This may especially be a concern if you are naturally prone to bruising. How can you avoid or reduce this issue after your treatment? This blog post provides some practical tips:
Choose an Experienced Provider
Selecting a skilled and experienced provider is one of the most important steps you can take to minimize bruising after BOTOX or dermal filler treatments. An experienced injector understands facial anatomy and uses precise techniques to avoid most blood vessels, which can significantly reduce your risk of bruising. (It is important to note that even experienced providers cannot avoid all blood vessels, but they certainly do all they can in this regard.)
Avoid Anything that Thins Your Blood
Several common medications and supplements can thin your blood, making you more prone to bruising after cosmetic injections. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, fish oil, and certain herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba. If it is safe for you to do so, avoid these substances for at least a week before your appointment. Always consult your healthcare provider before stopping any medication. Limiting alcohol consumption before your treatment can also help, since alcohol has mild blood-thinning effects.
Take Arnica Before and After Treatment
Arnica Montana is a natural remedy that many people use to help reduce bruising and swelling. You can find arnica in both oral and topical forms at most health stores and pharmacies. Start taking arnica a day or two before your treatment and continue for several days afterward, as directed on the packaging or by your provider. While more research is needed, many patients find that arnica helps speed up the healing process and lessens the appearance of bruises.
Avoid Vigorous Exercise for the First 48 Hours After Treatment
After receiving BOTOX or dermal fillers, it is best to avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 48 hours. Vigorous exercise increases blood flow to your face and can raise your blood pressure, both of which may increase your risk of bruising and swelling. Gentle movements, such as walking, are perfectly fine, but hold off on activities like running, weightlifting, or high-intensity workouts until your provider says it is safe to resume them.
Apply Ice
Applying a cold pack or ice to the treated area can help constrict blood vessels and minimize bruising. Use a clean cloth between the ice and your skin, and apply for short intervals of about 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Do this several times during the first day after your injections. The cooling effect helps reduce both swelling and discomfort, making the recovery process more comfortable.
Do Not Rub the Treatment Area
It is important to avoid touching or rubbing the areas where you received injections. Rubbing can cause the injected solution to spread to unintended areas and may disrupt the healing process, thereby increasing your chances of developing bruises. Allow the treatment to settle naturally, and follow any specific aftercare instructions your provider gives you.
You cannot totally eliminate the risk of bruising after BOTOX or dermal fillers, but you can certainly keep it to a minimum! Talk to your care provider if you have additional questions or concerns about how to optimize your cosmetic experience.
Meet the Practice
Elizabeth Estes Weldon is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and a Master Injector of both BOTOX and dermal fillers. If you are interested in enhancing your appearance through cosmetic injectables, she and our team would be happy to answer your questions! To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our Ocala office at 352-433-0888.