Lip fillers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments and are used to give your lips a boost of volume and/or make slight changes to the shape and symmetry of your lips. While fillers don’t require downtime and are a relatively quick and easy treatment, there are a few things you can do after your appointment to reduce swelling and bruising and help your results shine. 

1. Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications and Supplements

Medications and supplements that thin your blood can make bruising worse after getting lip fillers, so these should be avoided unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Some common over-the-counter medications and supplements to avoid for a few days after fillers include:

• Ibuprofen
• Asprin
• Naproxen
• St. John’s wort
• Vitamin E
• Omega 3/fish oil supplements

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is generally a safe over-the-counter choice for treating headaches or minor discomfort in the first few days after getting lip fillers.

2. Apply a Cold Compress to Reduce Swelling

Swelling is one of the most common side effects of getting fillers. While swelling will gradually dissipate on its own over the next several days, applying a cold compress to the treated area can help to reduce swelling more quickly and make you more comfortable in the meantime.

3. Apply Aloe or Arnica to Reduce Bruising

Topical aloe or arnica may help to reduce temporary bruising caused by lip injections. Both aloe and arnica have strong anti-inflammatory properties, making them top choice to help speed up the healing process. Always check with your provider before you apply anything directly to your skin after fillers, though.

4. Avoid Strenuous Exercise 

The day of your lip filler appointment isn’t the best day to give it your all at the gym. Take it easy for the first 24 to 48 hours after getting fillers to help keep swelling and bruising at bay. Light exercises like walking are fine, though, and you can go about other regular daily activities directly after your appointment.

5. Don’t Kiss or Pucker Up Just Yet

You want to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your lips right after getting fillers to ensure the product stays where it was placed and to avoid making swelling and bruising worse. Don’t vigorously rub or massage your lips, and pump the breaks on heavy kissing, sipping through a straw, and puckering your lips for the first day or so.

6. Wait to Apply Lipstick or Lip Balm 

Similarly, you’ll need to avoid applying lipstick, lip balm, or other products directly on your lips unless otherwise instructed by your provider for at least a day after getting lip filler.

7. Don’t Consume Alcohol for at Least 24 Hours 

Alcohol consumption can cause inflammation and also acts as a blood thinner, which can make swelling and bruising worse. It’s best to avoid alcohol for the first few days before and after your lip filler appointment for best results.

Ready to take the first step toward getting your perfect pout with fillers? Call our Boca Raton office at 561-247-5948 or get in touch online to book your consultation today! Check out some of our before and after photos here.