Botox® injections are probably one of the most popular treatments we provide at our clinic. It's a protein that prevents signals from your nerves to contract targeted muscles, allowing the skin to smoothen. But, because it is a protein, our body is able to break it down - the pace at which a person's body breaks down said protein, however, depends on a variety of factors such as the number of units of Botox® used, the person's metabolism, etc. However, there are certain ways for you to make the most out of your treatment between appointments:
Avoid strenuous workouts and excessive heat immediately after treatment
That is not to say avoid exercise completely - you can still go for walks or leisurely cycle, but intense exercises increase blood flow through muscles and can potentially diffuse the Botox® from the injection site. In general, we recommend waiting a few days before resuming your regular workout routine as each person's metabolic rate will differ. We also advise against exercises that would require various positions such as yoga, so that it's easier to keep your head upright. Speaking of...
Maintain an upright head position and avoid pressure
We always remind patients to keep their head upright for at least 4 hours after their treatment, and this is to prevent the Botox® from migrating from the injection site. You also want to avoid putting any pressure to the treatment areas for at least 6 hours afterwards for the same reason. In that same vein, rubbing or massaging your face after treatment is also not advised for the next few days after treatment. Just wash your face gently with cool water and pat dry.
Avoid too much sun exposure (and tanning beds!!)
We emphasize this almost every blogpost, but prolonged sun exposure leads to increased photo damage. This creates inflammation at the cellular level, which leads to damage to the skin, wrinkles and premature aging that Botox® isn't effective against (for example, volume loss, pigmentation, and wrinkles caused by sun damage aren't caused by muscle movements, so Botox® wouldn't be effective against those). Sunburnt skin cannot be treated on. We always stress wearing a good quality SPF especially now that the weather is getting nicer.
Try to avoid alcohol
While Botox® is completely safe when administered by an experienced, licensed individual, there are certain side effects such as potential mild bruising or swelling (especially around around delicate areas like the eyes, but usually resolves by themselves within a few days) that alcohol can exacerbate. Generally, we recommend avoiding alcohol consumption at least a few days before and after treatment.