Aftercare after anti-wrinkle injections: the dos and don'ts

Anti-wrinkle injections need very little downtime. Most people return to work or their day straight after. Even so, what you do in the first few hours and days can make a real difference to how well the treatment settles.

Here is a simple guide to the aftercare advice usually given. Always follow the specific advice you are given at your own appointment, as it may be tailored to you.

In the first four hours

The medicine needs a little time to settle into the muscles where it was placed. During this window, try to avoid anything that might move it towards nearby muscles.

• Stay upright and avoid lying down
• Do not rub, press or massage the treated areas
• Avoid bending over for long periods
• Hold off on make-up unless you have been told otherwise
• Gently move the treated muscles if advised, such as frowning or raising your brows a few times

For the rest of the day

Strenuous exercise raises your heart rate and blood flow to the face. It is usually best to avoid the gym, running and other hard workouts for at least 24 hours. A gentle walk is normally fine.

It is also sensible to avoid alcohol for 24 hours. Alcohol can make bruising more likely.

For the first few days

• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and sunbeds for around 48 hours
• Do not book facials, face massages or other facial treatments for about two weeks
• Be gentle when cleansing and applying skincare
• Sleep on your back on the first night if you can
• Avoid wearing tight hats, headbands or swimming goggles that press on the area for a day or two

What is normal after treatment

A few small bumps at the injection points are expected straight afterwards. These usually go down within an hour or so. Mild redness, tenderness and small bruises are also common.

Some people get a mild headache in the first day or two. Simple pain relief such as paracetamol usually helps. Speak to your practitioner or pharmacist if you are unsure what is suitable for you.

Remember that the results take time. Most people notice changes after two to five days. The full effect is usually seen at about two weeks. Try not to judge the result too early.

When to get in touch

Contact the clinic if you notice anything that worries you. This includes a drooping eyelid or brow, swelling that gets worse instead of better and any signs of infection. Uncommon side effects are generally temporary, but it is always better to ask.

If you have difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing, seek urgent medical help straight away. This is very rare.

Your review appointment

Your free review appointment, around two weeks after treatment, is a good time to check your result and talk about any questions. Please do keep it even if you are happy, as it helps with planning any future treatments.

Anti-wrinkle injections are a prescription-only medicine. Whether they are right for you is always decided at a face-to-face consultation with a prescriber, who will look at your medical history and your face before anything is agreed.

If you have questions about aftercare or would like to find out whether treatment is right for you, book a free 15-minute consultation with Lucy in Addlestone.