We all want to get our injections and get back to our regular routines as quickly as possible, so here are a few tips and tricks on how to take care of yourself after your injectable appointment:

• Ice. This is especially useful for filler injections where bruising and swelling can be more prominent. Icing the treatment area every couple of hours for 10 minutes at a time can help reduce bruising and swelling in the first 72 hours. Be sure to keep a thin cloth between the ice and your skin to prevent any damage to the surrounding tissues.

• Heat. After the first 72 hours, apply a warm compress (heating pad is best) to areas of bruising. This can significantly expedite the bruising process.

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Tylenol for the first 24 hours can help reduce any discomfort at the injection sites. Some patients experience a post-injection headache after Botox/Dysport, and Tylenol can alleviate that pain. In the first 72 hours, avoiding medications that can thin your blood like Aspirin, Advil and Aleve can reduce bruising risk.

• Plan your workout accordingly. You will need to avoid exercising for a short period of time after injections. Depending on what type of injection, this could be as short as 4 hours but up to 48 hours after treatment.

• Avoid rubbing the treatment area. Avoiding manipulating the treatment area can reduce risk of complications. Your provider will go over more detail with you at the time of your visit.

• Sleep with your head elevated on a few pillows. Sleeping with your head above your heart for the first few days can reduce swelling and expedite the healing process.

• Get creative with your concealer. There are concealers that specifically address the various colors of a bruise. Jane Iredale’s Corrective Colors kit is my concealer of choice and is particularly handy for that fickle bruise when you’re heading out for weekend plans. This kit is great for long term use and will last you for many visits to come!

If you have any additional questions or concerns about your post injection care, please don’t hesitate to contact our office, and we would be happy to discuss the plans for your next visit to Visage!