The effects of ageing can be incredibly frustrating for many of us. Fine lines, wrinkles, and facial folds can leave us feeling self-conscious about our appearance. Fortunately, there are several treatments available that can help reduce the signs of ageing.
In this blog post, we will explore the aftercare of two of the most popular treatments for ageing skin: dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections. Below you’ll find all of the ‘dos and don’ts’ when it comes to looking after your skin after having either of these treatments.
Dermal filler aftercare tips
Below is what you SHOULD do when it comes to aftercare for dermal fillers:
Take it easy
After getting fillers, it’s important to take it easy and give your body time to rest. Avoid strenuous activities and limit any heavy lifting for the first few days after the treatment.
Follow instructions
Each practitioner has their own post-treatment instructions, so make sure to follow them. This may include taking over-the-counter medications, using cold compresses, or avoiding direct sunlight for a few days.
Apply ice packs
Applying ice packs to your face can help reduce any inflammation or discomfort that may occur after getting fillers. Be sure to ask your Registered Cosmetic Nurse or Dermal Therapist how often you should apply the ice packs and for how long. You can also use a topical treatment to soothe and calm the skin such as Bepanthen or Arnica cream.
Be gentle with the treatment area
You should be gentle when washing and moisturising the treatment area. Avoid rubbing or scratching your face for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated can help promote faster healing and reduce swelling. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Wear sunscreen
Sun exposure can cause your fillers to break down more quickly, so it’s important to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you go outside, even on cloudy days.
What NOT to do after dermal filler treatment
Below is what NOT to do after dermal filler injections:
- Do not touch the treated area for at least four hours after your appointment, and avoid using any kind of make-up or beauty products for at least 12 hours
- Do not expose the treated area to extreme temperatures, such as hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, or direct sunlight for the first 48 hours
- Avoid strenuous activities, including exercise and massage, for the first 48 hours after treatment
- Do not sleep on your face for the first few days following treatment; instead, try to sleep on your back or side
- Avoid exposure to alcohol and smoking for at least one week after treatment
- Do not take anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, for one week after treatment
Anti-wrinkle aftercare tips
Below is what you SHOULD do when it comes to anti-wrinkle injection after care:
Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area
Avoid touching, rubbing, or massaging the treated area as this may cause the product to move around and not be effective.
Avoid strenuous exercise
You should avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after having anti-wrinkle injections. This is because exercise can cause increased blood circulation and can increase the risk of side effects such as bruising or redness.
Apply a cold compress
Applying a cold compress or cold pack to the treated area can help reduce any discomfort or swelling that may occur after the procedure.
Avoid sun exposure
Sun exposure can make the treated area more sensitive and may even cause the product to move around in the skin. Therefore, it is important to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when outdoors.
Don’t forget to follow up
After your procedure, it is important to follow up with your Registered Cosmetic Nurse or Dermal Therapist for any additional instructions or advice. This will help to ensure that your results are long-lasting and to avoid any unnecessary issues.
What NOT to do after having anti-wrinkle injections
Below is what NOT to do after anti-wrinkle treatment:
- Do not rub, scratch, or apply pressure to the injection site
- Avoid extreme heat and cold immediately after treatment
- Do not exercise vigorously for at least 24 hours
- Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours
- Do not use products containing Retin-A or Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) on the area for at least 1 week
- Do not expose the area to direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks after your treatment
- Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen sodium for at least 2 weeks
- Avoid facials, chemical peels or laser treatments for 2 weeks
How to book a consultation at Jade Cosmetic Clinic
To enquire about a nose filler appointment or for more information you can contact us online or call us on 1300 060 644. Or if you know what treatment you’d like and you’re ready to book a consultation with us, you can fill out our online booking form.
FAQs
Below you can find all of our other FAQs about AW and fillers aftercare:
How long does it take for fillers to settle?
Fillers work very quickly compared to other cosmetic injectables but do take some time to integrate into your tissues. It’s normal for your filler to take up to 2 weeks to fully settle.
When can I wash my face after fillers?
Immediately after the injections have been administered, your face will be cleaned. It’s important that you try not to touch your face for at least 6 hours. After this, you can clean your face with water and a gentle cleanser.
Can I take painkillers before or after having filler injections?
If necessary, for pain relief you can take paracetamol before and after your initial dermal filler treatment, but you should avoid anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, as these thin the blood and increase the risk of redness, swelling, bleeding and bruising.
How soon after having fillers and anti-wrinkle treatment can I fly?
You can usually fly on the same day or within a few days of receiving most anti-wrinkle injectables, however, you should avoid flying for at least 7 days after having facial fillers.
Can I smoke after lip fillers?
You should try to avoid smoking for at least 24 to 48 hours after getting lip fillers as smoking has been found to not only increase your risk of infection but also causes your lips to pucker, which can apply pressure on the lips and be painful after injections.
How long do the results of dermal fillers last?
How long fillers last varies depending on which type of filler was used and individual factors such as your age, metabolism and how well the aftercare instructions were followed.