Whether it’s your first time getting Botox injections or you’re a seasoned pro, choosing a skilled and experienced medical injector is crucial for achieving the best results and avoiding unwanted side effects. Botox, a trademark of a botulinum toxin product, should only be administered by a prescribing medical professional. While Botox is generally safe, bruising and swelling can occur. Jessica Hutchinson, founder of Sandbanks Clinic, shares her top tips on minimizing these common side effects.
Pre-Treatment Tips to Reduce Bruising and Swelling
1. Consider Supplements
Arnica: This natural supplement is well-known for its ability to reduce bruising. Start taking Arnica tablets two days before your procedure at a 30c dose and continue for 2-3 days after.
Bromelain: Found in the stem of pineapples, bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties. Eating four slices of pineapple can have the same healing effect as a day’s worth of supplements.
2. Avoid Blood Thinners
Medications: Refrain from taking ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen two weeks before your procedure, as these medications can thin your blood and increase bruising and swelling.
Supplements: Avoid vitamin E, St. John’s Wort, garlic, turmeric, chia seeds, Ginkgo biloba, and flaxseed oil before treatment, as these can also have blood-thinning effects.
Post-Treatment Tips
3. Exercise and Activity
Avoid exercising or engaging in activities that heat your body for at least 24 hours after your Botox treatment. This includes hot showers, saunas, and vigorous exercise, as these activities can increase blood flow to the surface of the skin, exacerbating swelling and bruising. Additionally, excessive movement may cause the Botox to migrate to unintended areas, reducing its effectiveness.
4. Alcohol Consumption
It’s best to avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after your treatment. Alcohol has a blood-thinning effect, which can increase the risk of bruising and swelling.
5. Stay Hydrated
Ensure you drink plenty of water—about eight glasses a day—for at least a week before your treatment. Dehydrated skin can affect the absorption and effectiveness of Botox. Keeping your skin hydrated and plump will help achieve the best results.
Facial Treatments and Skin Care
6. Facials and Retinol
Avoid facials for 7-10 days post-treatment and pause any retinol products for two days before and after your Botox injections. While it may be tempting to massage the treated area to reduce swelling, it is crucial to avoid touching or rubbing your face. This can cause the Botox to move to unintended areas, leading to undesirable results.
7. Skincare Tools
Refrain from using facial tools such as gua sha, and skincare devices like Clarisonic or Foreo Luna, as these can also disrupt the placement of the Botox.
Choosing the Right Injector
8. Professional Credentials
Always opt for a highly trained medical professional in a sterile setting. Preferably, choose a practitioner who is CQC accredited and registered as a Save Face practitioner. Even if you’ve had Botox injections before, it’s important to verify your injector’s credentials and experience. Ask to see their previous work, as injecting styles can vary significantly.
9. Numbing and Needle Size
To minimize bruising, request that your injector numbs the area with ice before the procedure. Ice helps shrink veins, reducing the chances of bruising and swelling. Additionally, smaller and narrower needles cause less trauma to the skin, further decreasing the risk of bruising.
By following these expert tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of bruising and swelling from Botox injections, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience. Remember, always consult with your medical professional before making any changes to your pre- and post-treatment routine.
