How to Prepare for a BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatment

Posted September 26, 2024 in BOTOX® Cosmetic

When you’re a BOTOX® Cosmetic newbie, you may be nervous about the procedure and wonder what to expect from your results. You’ll likely receive instructions on caring for the treatment area after your BOTOX® Cosmetic injections, but is there anything you can do beforehand to prepare for the procedure? In this blog, we’ll discuss the best ways to get ready for your BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment, helping to ensure gorgeous results.

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Schedule Your BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatment in Advance

Many BOTOX® Cosmetic patients choose to undergo the treatment in preparation for a special event like a holiday party or reunion. It’s a great step to take towards looking your best, subtly smoothing lines on your forehead and around your eyes. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that your BOTOX® Cosmetic results aren’t immediate; it takes around three to five days for your results to take effect, with optimal results visible at around 10 to 14 days after treatment. Not only that, but you may have some minor bruising, swelling, or redness for a few days after your injections that may give away your secret to smooth skin. If you’re getting BOTOX® Cosmetic before a special occasion, plan to do so at least two weeks prior to ensure optimal results. 

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Water is a vital component of glowing, healthy skin, so it’s important to drink plenty of water all the time to keep skin supple and plump. However, ensuring you’re hydrated before your BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment is especially important. BOTOX® Cosmetic works on your muscles, inhibiting their contraction to keep wrinkles and lines at bay. If you’re dehydrated, your muscles are less pliable and contract differently, which can impact the outcome of your treatment. 

That also means it’s best to skip that cocktail or glass of wine before treatment. Consuming alcohol of any sort before your BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment can be dehydrating and detrimental to your results, so it’s best to avoid having a drink for at least 24 to 48 hours before your appointment.

Avoid Blood Thinners 

Blood thinners, anticoagulants, and anti-inflammatory medications can increase your chances of bruising after your BOTOX® Cosmetic injections. That’s why it is recommended to discontinue the use of any medications and supplements that thin your blood for at least three to five days before your appointment. This includes over-the-counter pain relievers and supplements, such as:

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin)
• Fish oil
• Vitamin E
• Turmeric
• Melatonin

If you take prescription blood thinners to help lower your risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack, check with your doctor before discontinuing their use. Alcohol is also a blood thinner, so it’s best to avoid it before and after your procedure for a couple of days.

Know Your Medical History

BOTOX® Cosmetic is safe and is FDA-approved to treat fine lines and wrinkles. However, that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. People with certain medical conditions should avoid BOTOX® Cosmetic, including those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have neurological or neuromuscular disorders. 

Additionally, certain medications may interact with BOTOX® Cosmetic, including some antibiotics, muscle relaxers, anticholinergics, and anticoagulants. Interactions are typically not life-threatening but may increase side effects or muscle weakness. Make sure you talk with your doctor and make your injector aware of your medical conditions and medications you take prior to undergoing treatment.  

Avoid Skin Irritating Products

Retinols have become an integral part of many skin care regimens for their anti-aging properties. However, they can make your skin extra sensitive, both pre- and post-treatment. The same goes for chemical exfoliants and waxing. Avoid using products that can cause sensitivity for at least two days before your BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment and for at least two days after. 

Familiarize Yourself With Your Aftercare Requirements

When you come in for your BOTOX® Cosmetic injections, you will be given aftercare instructions. It is essential that you follow them closely to ensure that you receive optimal results. Many of the pre-procedure “don’ts” we’ve discussed apply to your post-procedure time as well: avoid alcohol and blood thinning medications for a couple of days, avoid using retinols and other skin care products that can cause sensitivity, and stay hydrated. Other important aftercare requirements include: 

• Staying upright for three to four hours after your treatment to ensure that the BOTOX® Cosmetic stays in place
• Refraining from strenuous activity or exercise for at least 24 hours
• Avoiding hot tubs and showers, saunas, and steam rooms for 24 hours after your treatment
• Do not rub the treatment area or put pressure on it for at least 12 hours (this includes vigorous cleansing, wearing a hat or headband, or undergoing a facial treatment like dermaplaning)

BOTOX® Cosmetic doesn’t require significant downtime after treatment; it just requires that you’re mindful of what you’re doing. Knowing what to do and what not to do after your injections helps keep side effects to a minimum and results to a maximum. 

Learn More About BOTOX® Cosmetic in Fresno

If the thought of undergoing BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments seems daunting, keep in mind that nearly ten million neurotoxin injections were performed in the U.S. in 2023. It is a safe and effective treatment, particularly when performed by an experienced injector. At Aspire MediSpa, our BOTOX® Cosmetic injectors are highly trained and here to make sure that you get the results you desire. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (559) 435-8477 or complete the online contact form.