What Not to Do After Botox: A Guide
Botox is a powerful, non-invasive solution for softening fine lines and wrinkles—but what you do after your injections is just as important as the procedure itself. To get the best results and avoid complications, there are a few crucial aftercare steps to keep in mind. In this guide, you'll learn what not to do after Botox, how to protect your results, and what practices support long-term skin health.
Table of Contents
- Avoid Touching or Rubbing the Treated Area
- Stay Upright: Avoid Lying Down
- Skip Strenuous Exercise
- Limit Alcohol Consumption
- Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications
- Avoid Excessive Heat & Sun Exposure
- Delay Facial Treatments & Massages
- Refrain from Applying Makeup Immediately
- Be Cautious with Air Travel
- Monitor for Unusual Side Effects
- Maintain a Healthy Skincare Routine
- Schedule Follow-Up Appointments
- Quick Takeaways
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Avoid Touching or Rubbing the Treated Area
Touching or rubbing the injection site can cause Botox to migrate to nearby muscles, resulting in unwanted side effects like drooping or asymmetry. Avoid facial massages or leaning on your face for at least 24 hours.
Stay Upright: Avoid Lying Down
Stay upright for a minimum of 4 hours post-injection to prevent the Botox from moving out of place. Avoid napping or lying on your side too soon after treatment.
Skip Strenuous Exercise
Intense physical activity can increase blood flow and may interfere with Botox placement. Hold off on gym sessions, hot yoga, or runs for at least 24 hours. Light walking is fine.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol increases the risk of bruising. Avoid wine, cocktails, and beer for at least 24 hours before and after your treatment to minimize complications.
Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications
NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen can also increase bruising. Speak with your provider about pausing these medications or choosing alternatives around your appointment.
Avoid Excessive Heat & Sun Exposure
Stay away from saunas, hot tubs, tanning beds, and sunbathing for 24–48 hours. Heat can worsen inflammation and may disrupt your results.
Delay Facial Treatments & Massages
Don’t schedule facials, dermaplaning, or massages within the first 48 hours post-Botox. These treatments may apply pressure and spread the product to unintended areas.
Refrain from Applying Makeup Immediately
Makeup brushes and products can introduce bacteria to open injection sites. Wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup—especially foundation or concealer over treated areas.
Be Cautious with Air Travel
Airplane cabin pressure changes may affect how Botox settles. Many professionals suggest avoiding flights for 24 to 48 hours post-treatment, especially for first-timers.
Monitor for Unusual Side Effects
Watch for prolonged bruising, headaches, or eyelid drooping. While rare, contact your provider if you experience anything unusual or severe after Botox.
Maintain a Healthy Skincare Routine
Use gentle, hydrating skincare and always apply SPF 30+ daily. Avoid exfoliants and retinol for the first few days, then resume your normal regimen gradually.
Schedule Follow-Up Appointments
Routine treatments every 3–4 months help maintain consistent results. Your injector can assess how you responded and recommend the best timing for touch-ups.
Quick Takeaways
- Stay upright for 4 hours post-injection
- Avoid rubbing, sweating, and sun exposure for 24 hours
- Skip alcohol and blood thinners to prevent bruising
- No facials or massages for 48 hours
- Hold off on makeup to reduce infection risk
- Follow your provider’s advice for personalized care
Conclusion
Knowing what not to do after Botox can mean the difference between subtle, natural results and uneven or unwanted effects. With just a little post-treatment mindfulness, you can protect your investment and keep your skin looking refreshed. Whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth, following these aftercare rules will ensure you get the glow you’re going for—safely, consistently, and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should I avoid touching my face after Botox?
Avoid touching, rubbing, or applying pressure for at least 24 hours post-injection.
2. Can I work out the day after Botox?
Light exercise is okay after 24 hours. Avoid high-intensity workouts until then.
3. When can I wear makeup after Botox?
Wait 24 hours before applying makeup to reduce infection risk at the injection sites.
4. Is it okay to fly right after Botox?
While not dangerous, it’s best to wait 24–48 hours before flying, especially if it’s your first treatment.
5. What helps Botox last longer?
Consistent skincare, SPF use, and regular touch-ups can help prolong your results.
💬 Share Your Experience
Have you had Botox before? What aftercare advice worked best for you? Let us know in the comments and tag a friend who needs this guide! Your story could help someone glow smarter.