BOTOX® Cosmetic requires little to no downtime, and most people can return to their normal routine right after treatment. However, your injector may recommend a few temporary precautions, such as remaining upright for several hours, avoiding rubbing or massaging the treated areas, and postponing strenuous exercise.
Follow the specific aftercare instructions your injector provides, as recommendations may vary based on the areas treated and your individual needs.
BOTOX Aftercare at a Glance
| After Treatment | What To Avoid |
|---|---|
| First 4 hours | Lying down |
| First 24 hours | Rubbing or massaging the injection sites; strenuous exercise; alcohol; sun, hot tubs, and saunas; makeup |
| First 24–48 hours | Flying, when recommended by your injector |
How Long After BOTOX Can You Lie Down?
You should avoid lying down for at least 4 hours after your injections. Lying down too soon can cause BOTOX to migrate to unintended areas, potentially leading to drooping eyelids or asymmetry. Staying upright allows it to settle correctly in the targeted muscles, maintaining the desired treatment effects.
Should I Rub or Massage the BOTOX Injection Sites?
You should not rub or massage the injection sites for at least 24 hours after treatment. Rubbing the area also risks spreading BOTOX to other parts of your face, leading to unintended effects. Try to keep your hands off your face to avoid irritation and potential infection.
When Can I Wash My Face After BOTOX?
You can wash your face after BOTOX, but be gentle around the injection sites. Avoid rubbing, massaging, or putting unnecessary pressure on the treated areas, and gently pat your skin dry rather than rubbing it with a towel.
Can I Wear Makeup After BOTOX?
We recommend skipping makeup for the first 24 hours after BOTOX injections. Applying makeup may involve rubbing or putting pressure on the treated areas, so waiting until the following day helps you avoid disturbing the injection sites.
Can I Work Out After BOTOX?
We recommend postponing strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after your appointment. High-intensity workouts increase blood flow, which may cause BOTOX to spread to unintended areas. Light activities such as walking or gentle stretching are acceptable after 4 hours, but it is best to save more vigorous workouts for the day following your injections.
When Can I Go Out for a Drink After BOTOX?
You should skip the drinks until the following day. Alcohol can increase blood flow and thin your blood, which may lead to increased bruising and swelling at the injection sites. To minimize these aftereffects, steer clear of alcoholic beverages during the first 24 hours after your injections.
Should I Avoid Heat and Sun After BOTOX?
We recommend staying out of the sun and avoiding hot tubs and saunas for at least 24 hours after your appointment. Heat increases blood flow to the treatment areas, which can increase temporary swelling and bruising.
When Can I Fly After Getting BOTOX?
If you schedule BOTOX injections before a trip, some injectors recommend waiting at least 24 to 48 hours before boarding a flight. This waiting period allows the BOTOX to settle fully in the treated areas and reduces the risk of complications such as increased swelling or bruising due to changes in cabin pressure. We can discuss your plans before scheduling your appointment.
Are the Same Precautions Necessary for Other Neuromodulators?
Many of the same general aftercare precautions also apply to Dysport®, DAXXIFY®, and Jeuveau® injections. Your injector will provide specific instructions based on your treatment.
Although these neuromodulators work similarly, each has different characteristics that may make one a better fit for your concerns and goals. To learn more about how BOTOX compares with Jeuveau, read our related blog post.
Learn More About BOTOX
Proper aftercare is an important part of your BOTOX treatment, and your injector will provide instructions based on the areas treated and your individual needs. If you’re considering BOTOX, Dysport, DAXXIFY, Jeuveau, or another injectable treatment at Jade MediSpa, request a consultation online or call us at (318) 795-0801 to schedule an appointment.