Botox® is the most popular cosmetic treatment in the United States, with nearly 9 million treatments performed every year. One reason why it’s so popular is because it has a long history of safe, effective use but that doesn’t mean it’s without any risks.
One minor risk of Botox injection is mild bruising at the injection site. Like any bruising, it is temporary, but ideally, you’d still like to do all you can to avoid it.
At Vein Specialists Institute, Ken Jesser, MD, offers Botox treatment focused on helping every patient achieve their unique aesthetic goals, using advanced injection techniques to help reduce post-treatment bruising. In this post, he offers five tips to help minimize bruising following your Botox treatment.
1. Use ice gently
Bruising happens when bleeding occurs under your skin. Using an ice pack or a cold compress helps constrict or tighten blood vessels so bleeding is less likely.
Try applying ice to the injection sites for 10-15 minutes before treatment. After treatment, you can apply ice for 10-15 minutes at a time for the first few hours. Be sure to wrap ice in a cloth to avoid direct contact with your skin.
It’s also important to apply ice gently. Do not rub the area and don’t press it to prevent spreading the Botox outside the treatment zone, which could lead to an unsatisfactory result.
2. Ask about medications and supplements
Some medications make bleeding more likely. Blood thinners are a prime example, but other medications, like aspirin and ibuprofen, and even some nutritional supplements, like vitamin E and garlic, can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
If you take prescription blood thinners, don’t stop taking them without consulting with us first. We can give you instructions for cutting back or avoiding non-prescription supplements prior to your treatment day.
3. Delay exercise
Yes, exercise is good for you. However, after Botox treatment, vigorous exercise can increase blood flow, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising.
Ideally, avoid strenuous physical activity for a day or two following treatment. Low-impact activities, like walking and swimming, are good substitutes.
4. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol dilates your blood vessels, increasing blood flow, too. Ideally, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to treatment and 24 hours after treatment.
5. Elevate the area
Finally, keep the area elevated for a few hours after treatment. You don’t have to stay in a sitting position, but if you lie down, use pillows to prop your head and neck. Elevation prevents blood from collecting around the injection sites, reducing the risk of bruising.
Banish wrinkles and boost your confidence
Botox is a great solution for just about anyone who wants to smooth out dynamic wrinkles and enjoy a smoother, more youthful complexion. To learn how Botox can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, request an appointment online or over the phone with Vein Specialists Institute in Palm Desert and La Quinta, California, today.