Tempted to get BOTOX injections for the first time but hesitant because you’re worried about side effects? That describes many first-time BOTOX clients at our Vero Beach, FL, medical spa. Some patients experience mild side effects after getting BOTOX, but more severe complications are rare. BOTOX has an exemplary safety track record since the FDA approved it for cosmetic use more than 20 years ago.
In this blog post, we’ll describe the side effects associated with BOTOX injections and address other questions about what to expect after the treatment.
First, a quick refresher about how BOTOX minimizes expression lines such as crow’s feet, worry lines, and forehead wrinkles. BOTOX—and Dysport®, which we also offer at White Orchid Spa—work by blocking specific nerve-to-muscle signals, temporarily relaxing the muscles that change expressions.
BOTOX Side Effects
The most common side effects include slight swelling at the injection site, mild headaches, or flu-like symptoms. You might also experience tenderness and bruising at the injection site. In clinical studies, less than 10% of patients treated for forehead lines experienced headaches. Some people ask if BOTOX is bad for you. It’s essential to note that most people who undergo BOTOX injections do not experience any side effects.
When do BOTOX side effects go away? They typically resolve on their own within a few days to a week.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of BOTOX?
If you get regular BOTOX injections for several years, it eventually trains your muscles not to make wrinkle-forming expressions as aggressively. It also weakens the targeted muscles from lack of use. One result is that you’ll need less BOTOX over time to maintain your results.
Another effect of long-term BOTOX use is that your skin won’t immediately develop lines if you decide to stop getting treatments. The muscles trained not to move will take time to regain strength.
What Not To Do After BOTOX Injections
There are certain things to avoid after getting BOTOX:
- Rubbing or massaging the injection area can cause the drug to spread, potentially resulting in unwanted side effects.
- You shouldn’t wear tight-fitting hats or caps.
- Take a break from the gym for 24 hours after the treatment
- Wait 4 hours before lying down flat. You can sit, but keep your torso upright.
What To Expect After BOTOX Injections
Other common concerns associated with what to expect after getting BOTOX injections include:
Can you drink after getting BOTOX?
We recommend limiting alcohol consumption for 24 hours after the injections. It’s also important to not drink alcohol the day or night before your treatment because alcohol can thin the blood, much like aspirin, and abstaining can help prevent bruising.
Can you fly after a BOTOX appointment?
It’s best to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after getting BOTOX injections before traveling by airplane. Changes in air pressure may affect BOTOX before the body absorbs it.
Can I wash my face after BOTOX?
You can wash your face immediately after the treatment if you are careful and use light pressure while washing. Use cold or lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. The same is true for showering after BOTOX. If you want to be on the safe side, wait 24 hours before washing your face.
Can you wear makeup after getting BOTOX?
You should wait at least 4 hours after the injections to apply makeup. After that time, there’s little risk of infection.
How long after getting BOTOX can you get a facial?
Getting a facial treatment, such as a HydraFacial®, too soon after BOTOX injections poses the same risk as rubbing your face; the injected solution spreads to nearby muscles. It’s best to wait 1 to 2 weeks before scheduling a facial.
Get Started
Choosing an experienced, highly trained injector is essential when getting BOTOX treatments. At White Orchid Spa, advanced registered nurse practitioners perform BOTOX and dermal filler injections for our guests. Our med spa in Vero Beach, FL, attracts local residents and guests from Melbourne, Sebastian, Port St. Lucie, and along the Treasure Coast. You can request a free, 30-minute consultation using the online form or call our spa at (772) 231-1133.
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