Anti-Wrinkle Injection Aftercare: The Complete Guide to Getting the Best Results

You've had your anti-wrinkle treatment—now what?

Whether it's your first appointment or you've had anti-wrinkle injections before,

following the correct aftercare advice can help you achieve the best possible results.

One of the most common questions we hear at David Brown Hairdressing & Aesthetics is: 'What should I avoid after Botox?'

Although anti-wrinkle injections require very little downtime, there are a few simple

guidelines that can help the treatment settle correctly and reduce the risk of unwanted side effects. Following the correct anti-wrinkle injection aftercare can help you achieve the best possible results.

Please note: In the UK, Botox® is a prescription-only medicine. In this article, we

refer to anti-wrinkle injections, which many people commonly know as 'Botox'

What Happens After Anti-Wrinkle Injections?

Anti-wrinkle injections work by temporarily relaxing specific facial muscles responsible for creating expression lines. Although the injections only take a few minutes, the product needs time to bind to the targeted muscles. During this period, it's important to avoid activities that could increase the chance of the product moving away from the intended treatment area.

Fortunately, aftercare is straightforward, and most clients return to their normal daily routine almost immediately.

The First 4 Hours

The first few hours are the most important.

Stay Upright

Avoid lying flat for at least four hours after your appointment.

Remaining upright helps the treatment settle into the intended muscles.

Don't Rub or Massage the Area

It can be tempting to touch your forehead or check the treated area, but avoid rubbing, pressing or massaging your face.

This includes:

• Facial massages

• Face rollers

• Gua Sha tools

• Tight headbands

• Hats pressing firmly on the forehead

Avoid Touching Your Face

Try not to touch the treated areas unless absolutely necessary. If you do need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.

Avoid Strenuous Exercise

Many clients ask:

'Can I go to the gym after Botox?'

We recommend waiting 24 hours before returning to strenuous exercise.

Intense workouts increase blood circulation, which may increase swelling or bruising and could theoretically affect how the product settles. A gentle walk is perfectly fine.

Avoid Saunas, Steam Rooms and Hot Tubs

Excessive heat isn't recommended during the first 24 hours.

Try to avoid:

• Saunas

• Steam rooms

• Hot tubs

• Very hot baths

  
  

Your normal shower is absolutely fine—just avoid making it excessively hot.

Avoid Excessive Alcohol

Alcohol can increase the likelihood of bruising. If possible, avoid drinking alcohol for the rest of the day following treatment.

Delay Facials and Skin Treatments

Avoid facial treatments for around two weeks unless advised otherwise by your practitioner.

This includes:

• Facials

• Chemical peels

• Microneedling

• RF Microneedling

• Laser treatments

• Dermaplaning

• Facial massage

Can I Wear Makeup?

It's generally recommended to wait around 4–6 hours before applying makeup.

When you do apply makeup, be gentle and avoid rubbing the treated area.

Can I Wash My Face?

Yes.

Simply wash your face gently without vigorous scrubbing. Pat your skin dry rather than rubbing it with a towel.

Can I Sleep Normally?

By bedtime, the product will usually have settled. For the first night, it's sensible to try to sleep on your back if possible and avoid pressing your face firmly into the pillow.

Can I Fly After Treatment?

Yes.

Flying doesn't reduce the effectiveness of anti-wrinkle injections. If you're travelling on the same day, simply continue following your normal aftercare advice.

Can I Drink Coffee?

Yes.

Normal amounts of tea or coffee won't affect your treatment. However, if you're particularly anxious before treatment, reducing caffeine beforehand may help you feel more relaxed.

When Will I See Results?

Results develop gradually.

Most clients notice:

2–4 days: Early changes.

7–10 days: Wrinkles begin softening.

10–14 days: Full results.

Don't worry if one side appears to respond slightly faster than the other—this is perfectly normal.

Is Swelling Normal?

Yes.

You may notice:

• Small raised bumps immediately after treatment.

• Mild redness.

• Slight tenderness.

• Tiny bruises.

These usually settle within a few hours or days.

When Should I Contact My Practitioner?

Although complications are uncommon, contact your practitioner if you experience:

• Increasing pain.

• Significant swelling.

• Changes in vision.

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking.

• Muscle weakness outside the treated area.

• Any symptoms that concern you.

Your practitioner would always rather answer a question than have you worry unnecessarily.

Top Tips for Longer Lasting Results

While everyone metabolises anti-wrinkle injections differently, these habits may help you maintain your results:

✔ Wear SPF daily.

✔ Follow your aftercare advice.

✔ Stay hydrated.

✔ Maintain a good skincare routine.

✔ Avoid smoking.

✔ Book regular maintenance appointments.

Consistency usually produces the most natural-looking long-term results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exercise after anti-wrinkle injections?

Wait at least 24 hours before strenuous exercise.

Can I wear makeup?

Yes, but wait around 4–6 hours and apply it gently.

Can I drink alcohol?

It's best to avoid alcohol until the following day to reduce the chance of bruising.

Can I have a facial afterwards?

Wait approximately two weeks before having facials or treatments involving facial massage unless your practitioner advises otherwise.

Can I lie down?

Remain upright for at least four hours after treatment.

Can I wash my face?

Yes, just avoid vigorous rubbing.

How often should I have treatment?

Most people return every 3–4 months, depending on how quickly their body

metabolises the product.

Will I still look natural?

Absolutely.

Modern anti-wrinkle treatments are designed to soften lines while allowing natural

facial expression. The goal is to help you look refreshed—not frozen.

Why Choose David Brown Hairdressing & Aesthetics?

At David Brown Hairdressing & Aesthetics, every treatment begins with a

thorough consultation to understand your goals and create a personalised treatment plan.

We believe anti-wrinkle treatments should enhance your natural features while

maintaining movement and expression. You'll receive clear aftercare advice and

ongoing support to help you achieve the best possible results.

Book Your Consultation