Do you bruise easily? If so, you might hesitate to get BOTOX or dermal fillers because bruising is a possible side effect. No one wants to have unsightly and uncomfortable bruises on their face! Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee that you will not bruise after injectable aesthetic treatments, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. Here are some helpful tips:
Avoid Certain Supplements and Medications
Some supplements and medications can interfere with blood clotting, so they can increase the risk that you will bruise after BOTOX injections. You should stop taking the following 1 – 2 weeks before your appointment (if you are taking prescription medications, consult with your doctor before you stop using them):
- St. John’s wort
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Garlic
- Turmeric
- Aspirin
- Warfarin
- Heparin
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen
Do Not Drink Alcohol
Alcohol thins the blood and can slow down clotting time, so you should not drink for at least 24 hours before and after your injections.
Apply Ice
Cold temperatures can reduce swelling and bruising, so do not be afraid to apply a cold compress or ice to your face after your injections. Your injection specialist might even apply ice for a few minutes prior to administering your BOTOX or dermal fillers. Just be sure that you do not apply ice directly to the skin, and do not use it for more than 10 – 15 minutes at a time.
Do Not Engage in Vigorous Exercise
Vigorous exercise increases your heart rate and blood flow, which can heighten your risk of bruising after injections. You should avoid strenuous physical activity for 2 – 3 hours before your injections and at least 24 hours afterward.
Make Sure You Get Enough Vitamin C
Vitamin C deficiency can increase the risk of bruising. You can make sure you get enough of this important nutrient by eating lots of fruits and colorful vegetables (for example, oranges and bell peppers are both excellent sources of vitamin C). You can also take vitamin C supplements.
Consider Using Anti-Bruising Supplements
Some supplements, such as arnica and vitamin K, may reduce the risk of bruising. You can start taking them a few days before your injections if your primary care practitioner gives you the go-ahead to use them.
What if You Bruise Anyway?
What if you develop bruises despite your best efforts to prevent them? Do not worry. Most people heal within a few days to a few weeks. In the meantime, a bit of light makeup along with color corrector may conceal the discoloration.
Bruising after BOTOX and dermal fillers can be avoided in most cases! Use the tips in this article to make your treatment as easy as possible.
Meet the Practice
Elizabeth Estes is the board-certified Advance Practice Registered Nurse at Lift Facial Aesthetics. She has more than 12 years of experience with BOTOX and dermal fillers. If you have questions about what to expect with these treatments, she and our team would be pleased to speak with you! Get in touch with our Ocala office at 352-433-0888.