After getting Botox injections, there are certain procedures to avoid since they may interfere with the final outlook of the results. Herein, you will learn procedures to avoid after Botox, the meaning of Botox, and what to expect after Botox.
Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures known for tackling wrinkles and facial lines across variousfacialareas, including but not limited to the forehead, eyes and nose. Like other non-surgical cosmetic procedures, it has various side effects, such as swelling and bruising. Hence, it is not recommended to get various surgical procedures such as chemical peel and micro dermal abrasion. These procedures may worsen the stated side effects. Additionally, these procedures mayinterfere with the final outlook of the procedure. It is recommended to wait twenty-four hours before undergoing any other cosmetic procedure to allow Botox to settle fully.
Understanding Botox
Botox, also known as Botulinum toxin injection, is a brand representing an aesthetic procedure popular for minimising wrinkles and facial lines. Barbanti et al.(2015) noted thatthis treatmentreduces ageing signs but also other medical conditions, including but not limited to chronic migraine, cervicaldystonia and excessive sweating.
Shome et al.(2018) stated that Botoxprevents the relaxation of facial muscles. As a result, it causes the weakening of these muscles leadingto thesoftening of wrinklescaused by certain facial expressions such as squinting.
Procedures to Avoid after Botox
FacialMassages
Due to the pressure exerted during face massages, it is advisable to refrain from the procedure for the first twenty-four hours after the getting an anti-wrinkle treatment. Facial massages may cause unwanted Botox movement around the face, leading to unwanted aesthetics like drooping eyelids.
MicrodermAbrasion
It is okay to get Microderm abrasion after Botox. However, most cosmetic doctors advise waiting for around twenty-four hours. Alfouzan et al.(2021) stated thatexcessive pressure caused by Microderm abrasion may interfere with the final outlook of the injectables and also makes the treated area more susceptible to bruising and swelling.You may have to wait around two weeks for the Botox to settle in full for maximum results.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatments are prohibited for about two to three weeks after getting Botox injections. The heat exerted from the procedure may affect the injectables in the face. As a result, it may eliminate Botoxeffects when performed close to it.
Chemical Peeling
Chemical peeling is oneof the most popular procedures for rejuvenating and resurfacing the skin. Even though it is normal for Botox to be combined with other anti-ageing procedures such as chemical peels, it is advisable to wait for around twenty-four hours to get another procedure after Botoxtreatments. It allows more time for the drug to settle substantial yielding results.
Other Things to Avoid after Botox
Blood Thinning Medications
Blood thinners such as vitamin E supplements and aspirin maymake the injection area susceptible to side effects such as bruising. Before consuming any pain-relieving medication, consult with your aesthetic doctor first.
Careless Sleeping
Right after the procedure, patients should avoid horizontallounging for around four hours. This allows the Botox settle properly at the injection site. For the best results, lying on your back while sleeping is advisable.
Strenuous Exercises
Difficultexercises and an active lifestyle are not advisable after the Botox procedure. To allow the settling of Botox, you may have to wait approximately a week before indulging in strenuous exercises.
Travelling
Like other cosmetic procedures, Botox comes with several side effects. To be safe, patientsshouldconsult their cosmetic doctor if unwanted relations occur.
Alcohol
Alcohol acts similarly to blood thinning medications.Additionally, it mayincrease the risk of swelling and bruising. Instead of consuming alcohol, you may substitute it with water since it helps fasten the healing process.
Excessive Heat Exposure
Sunbathing, tanning and using sun beds are strictly prohibited for a few days after getting Botox. Exposing the injection area to excessive heat may increase swelling and bruising. As a result, it interferes with the final results.
Constantly Touching the Injected Area
Botox injections are administered in a specific way to help you achieve the desired results. So, it is important to avoid constantly touching the treated area for around six hours after the procedure to avoid the chances of Botox migration.
It is normal to feel discomfort and may be tempted to massage the treated area. However, it is important to remember that the area must fully recover from the procedure. So, unwanted movements may produce undesired effects.
What to Expect After Botox
According to Satriyasa et al.(2019), some of the risk and side effects of Botox include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Blurry vision
- Slurred speech
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Trouble breathing and swallowing
Some of its advantages include the following:
- Reducing the appearance of wrinkles and facial lines
- Tackle other conditions, such as chronic migraine and excessive sweating
Frequently Asked Questions about Botox
How Does Botox Work?
Botox is a popular brand representing a neuromodulator (botulinum toxin) injected into the targeted facial muscles using an injector gun or ultra-fine needle. It blocks certain nerve impulses that cause the facial muscles to contract. The Repetitious movement of these muscles causes facial lines and wrinkles to deepen. Upon injection, the botulinum toxin relaxes the muscles and decreases these unnecessary contractions.
How Soon Will I See Botox Results?
Botox does not produce immediate results but works effectively, just like dermal fillers. Most patients start to notice some changes on the 3rd to 5th day, depending on the amount injected. For some, it might take 14 days to see changes in the softening of wrinkles. However, the final optimal result is noticed between the third week and 30 days after the injection.
Conclusion
Botox is a brand under botulinum toxin injection, mostly popular for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It may also tackle other conditions, including chronic migraine and excessive sweating. After getting Botox, patients should refrain fromprocedures such as micro dermal abrasion, chemical peeling and facial. These procedures may increase the chances of side effects, such as swelling and bruising. Also, they may tamper with the final results of the procedure. Other things to avoid after getting Botox include; alcohol, excessive sun exposure and food rich in garlic. A point worth noting is before getting Botox, it is advisable to discuss with a cosmetic injector the reeks and other things to expect afterwards.
References
Satriyasa, B. K. (2019). Botulinum toxin (Botox) A for reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles: a literature review of clinical use and pharmacological aspect. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 12, 223.
Barbanti, P., Egeo, G., Fofi, L., Aurilia, C., & Piroso, S. (2015). Rationale for the use of onabotulinum toxin A (BOTOX) in chronic migraine. Neurological Sciences, 36(1), 29-32.
Shome, D., Khare, S., & Kapoor, R. (2018). An algorithm using Botox injections for facial scar improvement in Fitzpatrick type IV-VI skin. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open, 6(8).
Alfouzan, S., & Mekkawy, M. (2021). Knowledge and practice of faculty members of dental colleges in Saudi Arabia on non-surgical facial aesthetics (botox & dermal fillers). Oral & maxillofacial surgery, 19(23), 42.
- Delta: A Review from My Perspective - April 10, 2024
- JustCBD UK: A Comprehensive Review - April 8, 2024
- Dermal Fillers, Anti-Wrinkle Injections in St John’s GU21 - March 15, 2024