Face Work Ahead
Tips for Before and After Your Filler and Toxin Injections
Filler and Neurotoxins are minimally invasive and temporary medical treatments to cosmetically enhance our natural beauty. They can be used to reduce the signs of aging or correct medial malformations or things that we just don’t like or bother us.
They are an easy and effective cosmetic treatment that can be performed in a doctor’s office and in most cases provide instant gratification. They are non-permanent and can be dissolved if the patient is unhappy with the results provided.
Neurotoxins commonly available are Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. They are injectable solutions that temporarily block nerve receptors in the muscle, preventing lines and wrinkles from forming. They can also be used to treat muscle stiffness, muscle spasms, and excessive sweating. Not only can neurotoxins be used for cosmetic procedures but they can also be used for medical issues as well. Not all neurotoxins can be used in all areas of the body and it is important to find an injector who you trust and has the same aesthetic goals.
I personally like to mix and match my neurotoxins in the various areas of my face. I don’t have personal experience with Xeomin, but I prefer Dysport in my forehead and eye area as I feel it spreads better and covers more area and for me personally it lasts longer than Botox. I then prefer botox in the smaller muscle areas. I suggest trying whatever your doctor suggests for your personal needs and if you are a candidate for both why not try each and see which you prefer?
When it comes to filler, there are so many different options and varieties to choose from, which is best for you will be based on the area you are injecting and the look you want to achieve.
The most important thing to consider when getting fillers and neurotoxins is to find a reputable injector that you trust to guide you through the process. I think it’s always best to start slow and small, so one area at a time and with small amounts.
The good news is that it doesn’t matter what filler or neurotoxin you choose, these helpful pre and post-injection tips will help to make your treatment as successful as possible!
What to do Pre-Treatment
One week prior stop all NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications) such as aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Nuprin, Bufferin, Ibuprofen
One week prior stop all herbal supplements such as fish oil, Ginkgo Biloba, ginseng, St. John’s Wort, primrose oil, garlic, and Vitamin E
5 Days prior to treatment avoid topical products such as Tretinoin (Retin-A), Retinol, Retinoids, Glycolic Acid, or any anti-aging treatments
5 days prior to treatment avoid waxing, bleaching, tweezing or using hair removal cream on the area to be treated
2 days Before treatment start taking Arnica to help lessen bruising
Avoid caffeine for about 24 hours before your procedure
Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours before your procedure
Avoid foods and drinks that have a dehydrating tendency – this could slow the healing process
Day of Treatment
Arrive at your appointment with a clean face, washed and without makeup
Be prepared to possibly have numbing agents applied to the treated area
Plan accordingly as you will not be able to lay flat for 4 hours following treatment
You should not exercise for 24 hours following treatment
Avoid anything that puts pressure on your face such as a massage, sleeping on your side, wearing sunglasses, etc.
No makeup day of the procedure
What to do Post Treatment
Apply an ice pack
Continue taking Arnica or an Arnica + Bromelain tablet as both naturally reduce swelling
Take acetaminophen to reduce pain as necessary
Avoid itching, massaging, or picking at the injection site
Do not expose the area to intense heat (sauna, hot tubs, steam rooms)
Avoid pressure on the treated area for the first few days/nights ( sleep on your back if possible, avoid sunglasses, etc)
Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours (exercise)
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours
Do not use AHA, Retinoids/Vitamin C therapy, or make up for 24 hours
Avoid Facials, facial waxing, glycolic or AHA peels, IPL, or energy-based treatments and microdermabrasion for two weeks after treatment
Do not massage the areas of treatment unless advised by the injector
I hope you find all these tips and tricks helpful the next time or the first time you seek treatment for all your injectable needs. Fillers and Neurotoxins are a great way to make subtle changes that result in big confidence boosts, and I’m all for doing whatever makes you feel your very best self!
Peace, Love, and saying buh-bye to fine lines and wrinkles!
XX,
Jenna