“Botox in a Bottle” is an enduring TikTok trend, but the classics are forever; Botox in a Syringe isn’t going anywhere. Even a “baby” dose of injectables can smooth crow’s feet, forehead lines, and fine lines. Plus, the right Botox post-care skincare routine can enhance the effects of Botox.
Understanding Botox post-op care and how to treat post-injection skin means knowing what you’re injecting – Botox is made from a toxin produced by the bacterium Botox, which temporarily paralyzes muscles and is used to smooth facial wrinkles, treat neck cramps, sweating, migraines and more.
So if you have just had a Botox injection, know what to do after the injection to ensure a successful injection and prevent fluid migration. Here, two top dermatologists and a plastic facial surgeon dubbed New York City’s “Queen of Botox” share what to do after treatment, and what not to do. They also showcased post-Botox skin care products that would leave patients soothed, smoothed and hydrated for hours after the injection.
Contraindications: Botox Post-Post Care
Think of a Botox appointment as your license to skip the gym. “I advise my patients to avoid physical activity, especially strenuous exercise, for the hours following treatment,” says facial plastic surgeon Dr. Yael Halaas. She explains that exercising can cause the treatment to spread to muscle groups that shouldn’t be touched.
A spa day isn’t the ideal path to recovery either. Halas warns against massages, which can also lead to the spread of Botox. Dermatologist Dr. Michael Jacobs tells his Botox patients not to get facials for a few hours after the injection. In general, any service that uses dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, radio frequency, or lasers can also cause the filler to spread.
Sitting in a sauna or steam room is also a no-no: too much heat increases blood flow to the face, which can cause fillers to dissipate. In fact, bending over in any climate can have a similar effect. “If you need to pick something up, avoid bending over with your head down,” advises dermatologist Dr. Janet Graff. “Instead, pick it up by bending your knees and maintaining an upright position.”
Halas tells her patients not to wear hats or goggles for at least four hours after forehead treatment. She tells all Botox clients to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E and fish oil within
hours of injection. “These may increase your likelihood of bruising,” she says, (As with any treatment, consult with your own healthcare provider to develop a personal post-Botox plan.)
