Whether it's Botox or hyaluronic acid, injections are popular minimally invasive procedures for wrinkle treatment or facial contouring. To achieve the best possible results and avoid complications, it's crucial that you follow certain guidelines before and after treatment. This blog post will tell you what to keep in mind to achieve optimal results after injections.
Differences between Botox and hyaluronic acid
Botox and hyaluronic acid serve different purposes. Botox is primarily used to smooth expression lines by blocking muscle activity. Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, is a natural component of the skin that retains moisture and adds volume. It is used to fill wrinkles or to shape facial contours, such as the lips and nose.
Follow-up care therefore differs slightly depending on the substance used, but some basic measures apply to both.
Behavior before the injection
1 week before the treatment
Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, Thomapyrin, vitamins C and E, and ginkgo preparations. Antibiotics and cortisone should also be avoided to minimize the risk of bruising.
2 weeks before the injection
Avoid all dental treatments and vaccinations, and also avoid laser treatments or other invasive cosmetic procedures in the same area.
Make sure you are healthy – if you have an infection, a cold or herpes, the treatment should be postponed.
6 weeks before treatment
Avoid surgery unless it has been discussed with your doctor beforehand.
On the day of treatment
Avoid alcohol to minimize the risk of bleeding and swelling.
Please come to your treatment without makeup to ensure hygiene and reduce the risk of infection.
Behavior after Botox injections
Botox injections require specific aftercare to ensure that the treatment works correctly and to reduce possible side effects such as swelling or bruising.
Immediately after the Botox treatment
Keep your head upright for at least 4 hours to optimally support the distribution of the Botox and prevent the muscle relaxant from spreading.
You may not apply makeup again for 6 hours.
Refrain from smoking for at least 2 hours to avoid interfering with the healing process.
In the first few days after treatment
Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol consumption for at least 48 hours. Both can increase blood flow and therefore the risk of bruising.
During the first week, you should avoid sunbathing, saunas, and steam baths. You should also avoid extreme temperatures below 0°C to protect the treated areas.
Behavior after hyaluronic acid injections
After a hyaluronic acid injection, special measures are required to reduce swelling and bruising and to achieve the best possible result.
After the hyaluronic acid treatment
Drink at least 2 liters of water daily to allow the hyaluronic acid to develop optimally in the skin.
If swelling occurs, cool the affected areas for a maximum of 15 minutes per hour.
Moist compresses help with bruising or redness, especially when treating dark circles under the eyes.
Avoid facials, massages, or invasive cosmetic treatments for at least 2 weeks.
Laser treatments and microblading/permanent make-up should be avoided for at least 4 weeks.
Surgery is only possible for 6 weeks in consultation with your treating physician.
Specific recommendations for lip augmentation
Avoid hot drinks for at least 4 hours.
Do not use lipstick or other lip care products until the next day.
Special recommendations for rhinoplasty with hyaluronic acid
Do not wear glasses or sunglasses for 3 days to avoid putting pressure on the treated areas.
Do not apply pressure to your nose for 2 weeks to avoid affecting the shape and results of the correction.
Conclusion:
Whether it's Botox or hyaluronic acid – with the right preparation and aftercare, you can significantly improve the results of your treatment and reduce the risk of complications. Follow your doctor's recommendations and ensure proper aftercare to achieve long-lasting and beautiful results.
The most important rules: No alcohol, no heat or intense sun exposure, and plenty of fluids – especially after a hyaluronic acid treatment. With Botox, however, proper head posture and protecting the treated area are crucial.
Following these behavioral guidelines after the injection will not only improve your result, but also support faster skin regeneration.