Dos and Don’ts After Botox Injections 

If you’re planning on Botox injections, you may be wondering what steps to take to optimize your results. The injectable neurotoxin is an excellent option for relieving temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and reducing facial lines and wrinkles, leaving you looking and feeling better than ever. Our team at Bridget Singh, DDS, has put together a guide outlining the dos and don’ts after Botox injections to enhance your treatment outcomes. 

What Is Botox?

Botox is a leading neuromodulator that’s derived from the botulinum toxin type A. When injected, it helps block nerve signals responsible for muscle contractions, temporarily reducing muscle activity. Botox is most commonly used to smooth away dynamic wrinkles that form at the brow and around the eyes due to repetitive facial expressions such as furrowing the brow, frowning, smiling, or laughing. It helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles like crow’s feet, forehead lines, and frown lines. 

Botox also offers therapeutic benefits, including providing relief for TMJ pain. When injected in specific muscles, Botox can help reduce jaw tension, reduce teeth grinding, and minimize headaches caused by overactive jaw muscles. 

What Are Dos After Botox Injections?

To maximize the benefit of the Botox injections while avoiding complications, you should note the following:

  • Keep Your Head Upright: Avoid lying down or bending over excessively for the first 4-6 hours after the Botox injections. Staying upright helps prevent the Botox from migrating to unintended areas.
  • Gently Exercise Your Facial Muscles: Subtle facial movements such as raising your eyebrows or smiling can help Botox distribute evenly into the targeted muscles. However, avoid excessive facial movements during the first 24 hours.
  • Use Gentle Skincare Products: Stick to mild, non-irritating cleansers and moisturizers for the first few days. Avoid exfoliants, retinol, or strong acids, which can irritate your skin post-treatment.

What Are Don’ts After Botox Injections?

Here are some things to avoid to ensure you achieve your desired treatment results:

  • Don’t Touch or Rub the Treated Area: For at least 24 hours, refrain from massaging, rubbing, or applying pressure to the injection sites. Touching the area can move the Botox into unintended muscles, potentially interfering with the desired results.
  • Avoid Intense Exercise: Skip strenuous activities like running or weightlifting for the first 24 hours. Increased blood flow can reduce Botox’s effectiveness or cause swelling in the treatment area.
  • Stay Away from Alcohol and Tobacco: Alcohol and smoking can slow down healing and increase your risk of bruising. Avoid both for at least 24 hours before and after your Botox appointment.
  • Don’t Expose Yourself to Extreme Heat: For the first 48 hours, avoid saunas, hot tubs, or intense sunlight. Excessive heat can cause inflammation and impact the longevity of your Botox results.
  • Don’t Schedule Facial Treatments Immediately After: Hold off on facials, chemical peels, or laser treatments for at least two weeks. These procedures can interfere with the results of your Botox injections and cause irritation.

Botox Injections Near Me in Seattle, WA

Botox injections at Bridget Singh, DDS, offer a highly effective solution to relieve TMJ pain or turn back the hands of time on your facial lines and wrinkles. Our experienced dentist has an in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy and extensive experience leveraging the cosmetic and functional benefits of Botox, ensuring you are as comfortable as possible while achieving the best possible results. We invite you to call us at 206-399-3775 to schedule your appointment or book one online today!