How long after Botox can you use products?

Author: Prof. Sophia Rohan  |  Last update: Friday, June 20, 2025

After Botox, it's best to avoid skincare products that contain harsh ingredients, such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and exfoliating scrubs, for at least 24 to 48 hours. These products can irritate the treated areas and potentially lead to redness or sensitivity.

How soon after Botox can I use skincare?

Answer: When can I resume using skincare after Botox and fillers? As a general rule, we tell our patients to resume their normal skin care approximately two hours after the administration of Botox or fillers. The small punctures created by the needle should have been completely closed by that point in time.

What products should you not use after Botox?

Avoid active skincare products after your anti-wrinkle injections. It is crucial to avoid any 'active' skincare product for the first three days after treatment. Active skincare includes any products that contain Alpha or Beta Hydroxy Acids, Retinol (Vitamin A) or Vitamin C.

How long after Botox can you use serum?

I recommend waiting 2 or 3 days after botox and juvederm before using vitamin c, retinol and aha's. This way, the very tiny injection sites can heal and they won't get extra irritated.

What is the 4-hour rule for Botox?

This one is a classic. But here's the deal: while you should avoid lying down for about four hours post-treatment to prevent pressure on treated areas, bending over briefly is generally fine. It's more about avoiding excessive physical activity immediately after your session. Myth #2: Botox Is Addictive.

Dermatologist on what NOT to do after your Botox injections

What can mess up Botox?

Below are 7 common mistakes you should avoid in order to get the best results.
  • Choosing an Under-Qualified Provider. ...
  • Taking Blood Thinners. ...
  • Drinking Alcohol. ...
  • Using Retinol. ...
  • Exercising too Soon after Treatment. ...
  • Getting BOTOX® on an Empty Stomach. ...
  • Massaging Your Face.

How long after Botox can you use hyaluronic acid?

Irritating products (ie. retinols, hyaluronic acid) should be avoided for 24 hours following Botox.

What causes Botox to wear off faster?

For those with a faster metabolism, the effects of Botox may wear off more quickly as their bodies metabolize the toxin at an accelerated rate. The process by which the body breaks down and eliminates Botox involves digestive proteins in nerve endings, which can vary between individuals and thus affect Botox longevity.

Is moisturizer OK after Botox?

You should be gentle with any face washing or lotion applying in the days after Botox. However, you can still use the same cleansers, exfoliants and moisturizers you always use. These products won't harm your Botox results and can even enhance results if these products improve your skin's texture and glow.

Does retinol break down Botox?

For a minimum of 3 days post-treatment, avoid using anything perceived as 'active' skincare. This includes products which contain Retinol, Vitamin C, Hydroxy Acids or Beta Hydroxy Acid. For 24 hours, avoid sunbathing, intentional direct sunlight and tanning beds. Stay away from swimming for 24 hours post-treatment.

What can I avoid to make Botox last longer?

Avoid Too Much Sun Exposure

Sun damage can reverse the benefits of Botox by breaking down collagen and causing more lines and wrinkles. The results of Botox can last longer if patients commit to sun protection after treatment. Wear the correct sunscreen and seek shade when possible.

What is the best aftercare for Botox?

Avoid Touching Or Massaging The Treated Area

After a Botox treatment, it is important to avoid touching or massaging the treated area for at least 24 hours. Touching or applying pressure to the area can cause the Botox to spread to unintended muscles, potentially leading to unwanted results.

How soon can I drink coffee after Botox?

Can I Drink Coffee After Botox? Yes, but not within the first 48 hours after Botox injection, and make sure you consume in limited amounts. Drinking coffee right after the procedure may worsen the risk of swelling and bruising. That's because caffeine can dilate your blood vessels, affecting the desired results.

How long after Botox does it look best?

When Do You See Results From Botox? It takes approximately 14 days for Botox to fully settle and reveal its complete effects.

What are the don'ts of Botox?

Don't get a facial or head massage for a full 24 hours after Botox. You should also avoid rubbing your face in the area that was treated.

What is the best Botox cream?

Our Top Picks:
  • Best Overall: The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA, $21.
  • The Editors' Pick: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox, $148.
  • Best for Mature Skin: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum, $295.
  • Best Retinol: RoC Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum, $30.
  • Best for the Neck: Reserveage Beauty Firming Neck Cream, $31.

What face products can I use after Botox?

Tips for post-Botox® skincare:

After the initial 24-hour period, you can resume your regular skincare routine, including cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. However, avoid using exfoliating or abrasive products on the treated area for at least a week after treatment.

How soon after Botox can I wash my face?

You can wash your face a few hours after your Botox treatment, but it's important to do so gently. Avoid using hot water and aggressive scrubbing around the treated areas for the first 24 hours. Stick with a mild cleanser and cool or lukewarm water, and use light, patting motions instead of rubbing.

Can Botox migrate after 48 hours?

Botox can potentially migrate up to 24 hours post-treatment, although the risk significantly diminishes after the initial few hours. To mitigate this risk, we recommend that you avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the treated area and refrain from vigorous physical activities during this 24-hour period.

What can ruin Botox?

7 Things Not to Do After Botox
  • Rubbing Your Face. ...
  • Sun and Heat Exposure. ...
  • Intense Exercise. ...
  • Taking Blood Thinners. ...
  • Alcohol Consumption. ...
  • Washing Your Face With Soap. ...
  • Applying Topical Products.

What vitamin helps Botox last longer?

Take a Zinc Supplement

In a study from the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, researchers found that people who received Botox and then took a 50-milligram zinc supplement saw a significantly longer duration in their results.

How many units of Botox for the forehead?

Forehead. Forehead lines can be treated with Botox Treatment. 5-15 units of Botox are recommended to treat fine lines on the forehead, depending on the size of the forehead or how much movement is needed.

How to maximize Botox results?

How Can You Ensure You Get the Best Results With Botox Treatments?
  1. Avoid Touching or Rubbing the Treated Areas. ...
  2. Stay Upright and Avoid Strenuous Exercise. ...
  3. Avoid Alcohol and Blood-Thinning Medications. ...
  4. Be Patient and Allow Time for Results. ...
  5. Follow Any Specific Instructions. ...
  6. Avoid Excessive Heat or Cold. ...
  7. Stay Hydrated.

What is the best moisturizer to use after Botox?

“Moisturizing is key always, but especially after treatments,” Graf says. She likes Senté's Dermal Repair Cream, which is “a lightweight option that moisturizes without feeling heavy on the skin.” Elixirs by Tatcha, Skinfix, and Dior offer similar hydration benefits.

How long after Botox can I sleep on my side?

Can I sleep on my side after having Botox®? Yes, provided you wait at least four hours before lying down. Botox® takes a few hours to settle into place, so lying down straightaway could cause it to migrate to other muscles in your face and increase the risk of complications.

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