What are the don'ts after face Botox?

Author: Prof. Maxie Hamill DVM  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Here's what not to do after Botox – we recommend the following precautions to allow the anti-wrinkle injections to work optimally in the targeted muscles: No rubbing or massaging of the injected area for 4 hours after treatment, including facials. No strenuous exercise for 24 hours after treatment.

What not to do after Botox in the face?

The Top 7 Things Not to Do After Botox®
  1. Don't Rub or Touch the Treated Area.
  2. Avoid Lying Down for 4–6 Hours.
  3. Don't Engage in Intense Exercise.
  4. Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications.
  5. Stay Away from Excessive Sun and Heat.
  6. Don't Apply Makeup or Skincare Products Immediately.
  7. Avoid Facial Treatments for at Least 24–48 Hours.

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.

What should I do after Botox for best results?

Try to stay upright for three to four hours after Botox. Don't massage the area. Botox is liquid, and liquid can spread, although only by about half an inch. Still, that can make a difference in the way it settles, so don't massage or rub your face for 12 hours after Botox.

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.

Dermatologist on what NOT to do after your Botox injections

What makes your Botox wear off faster?

High intensity workouts are designed to boost your metabolism in order to burn calories and build muscle more quickly. By raising your metabolic rate, you may be causing your body to metabolize the Botox more quickly so it breaks down sooner than expected.

What is the biggest risk of Botox?

Serious adverse effects after cosmetic use of botulinum toxin include dysphagia, muscle weakness, and allergic reactions [22, 23].

How to make Botox last longer?

How Can You Make Botox Last Longer?
  1. Be Gentle With Your Face for Two Days. ...
  2. Sleep On Your Back. ...
  3. Exercise the Treated Muscles. ...
  4. Schedule Regular Injection Sessions. ...
  5. Seek Treatment From a Reputable Provider. ...
  6. Don't Exercise Immediately After Treatment. ...
  7. Limit UV Exposure. ...
  8. Get a Good Workout In.

How many days after Botox does it look best?

While some patients may begin to notice subtle improvements as early as three to five days post-procedure, the most noticeable results typically appear between days 7 and 10. By the two-week mark, you can expect the treatment's full impact to be evident, providing the smoother, rejuvenated look you desire.

What are the long term side effects of Botox?

Here are some of the long-term effects to be aware of.
  • It can weaken your muscles. ...
  • You may start frowning less. ...
  • Your injections may last longer. ...
  • As you age, Botox doesn't work as well. ...
  • Treatments can put a dent in your wallet. ...
  • Will Botox make your skin thinner over time?

How long after Botox can I shower?

You can shower after the Botox treatment, but it's advisable to wait at least four hours before doing so. Avoid hot showers or baths for the first 24 hours post-treatment as the heat may increase blood circulation, potentially dispersing the Botox more rapidly and reducing its effectiveness.

What is the best alternative to Botox?

Below are 10 alternatives to BOTOX® that might help if you're seeking smoother or firmer skin on your face.
  • Cosmetic Acupuncture. ...
  • Microneedling. ...
  • Chemical Peels. ...
  • Laser Therapy. ...
  • Cryotherapy. ...
  • Facial Creams. ...
  • Neuropeptides. ...
  • Face Patches.

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.

What not to do the night before Botox?

Here's what not to do before Botox:
  • Drink Alcohol. Doctors often advise that patients should avoid eating or drinking anything 12 to 24 hours before a surgical procedure. ...
  • Drink Coffee. You should also avoid coffee before Botox. ...
  • Use Topical Products. ...
  • Waxing, Bleaching, or Tweezing. ...
  • Take Aspirin or Blood-Thinning Medications.

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.

Is 40 units of Botox a lot?

Usually, an average Botox treatment is in the range of 40-50 units, meaning the average cost for a Botox treatment is between $400 and $600. Forehead injections (20 units) and eyebrow lines (up to 40 units), for example, would be approximately $600 for the full treatment.

What day does Botox peak?

Peak Effects: By days 10 to 14, you'll probably start to feel the full impact of the medication. The targeted facial muscles will be at their most relaxed state at this time, and wrinkles will be considerably reduced or even gone.

Why are my 11 lines still there after Botox?

For instance, if your forehead furrows smoothed out, but your “11” lines are still visible, you may need a touch-up with more units of Botox. Or, we may recommend fillers to resolve the problem. Your two-week evaluation is part of your initial Botox treatment.

What vitamin makes Botox last longer?

Taking a zinc supplement can help extend the effectiveness of your Botox injections. This is because zinc is an important mineral that helps your body produce collagen, essential for healthy skin. When you take a zinc supplement, it can increase the production of collagen around your injection site.

What shortens the life of Botox?

High stress levels can cause increased facial movements like frowning and squinting, which can contribute to faster metabolization and thus decreased longevity of Botox. Furthermore, protecting your skin from UV rays and avoiding smoking or vaping can enhance the effects of Botox and prolong its cosmetic benefits.

What helps Botox wear off faster?

Intense exercise or anything that speeds up the body's metabolism. HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and hot yoga are good examples of this. Having a faster metabolism can help break down your bad Botox as the body's natural process is sped up.

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.

Can Botox affect your heart?

Most Botox side effects are generally mild and temporary. Rare but serious side effects, such as heart problems or difficulty breathing, are also possible. When they happen, they're often linked to the medication spreading to other parts of the body.

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