What Not To Do After Lip Fillers

03rd June 2024

What Not To Do After Lip Fillers

Lip fillers are a popular cosmetic treatment at our Kent aesthetics clinic. Lip filler treatments can enhance the shape and volume of the lips and beautifully rejuvenate ageing lips. When undertaken by a medical professional, the procedure is generally safe and effective. However, there are certain precautions you should take to ensure optimal results and minimise any potential complications. Here are some lip filler aftercare tips on what not to do after lip fillers, as explained by Intrigue Cosmetic Clinic’s founder and our award-winning aesthetic practitioner, Amish Patel.

Avoid touching or applying pressure to your lips

Refraining from touching or pressing on your lips immediately after getting lip filler injections is important. Rubbing or massaging can cause the filler to shift or displace, affecting the desired shape and symmetry. Common side effects include some swelling after lip filler, but this will reduce and disappear over time.

You can gently apply an ice pack 48 hours after lip filler, but avoid any pressure. Lip dermal fillers can take up to 7 days to settle, so swelling and some bruising are not unusual in this sensitive area. However, if you are in severe pain or have any concerns after your dermal filler procedure, then contact your medical practitioner.

Avoid wearing makeup

Avoid wearing cosmetics for at least 24 hours after treatment, ideally 48 hours after the procedure. Do not apply any cosmetic products, such as lipstick or lip gloss. These products can introduce bacteria into the injection sites, increasing the risk of infection. Going makeup-free for a few days will do your skin a world of good, allowing your skin to breathe.

Avoid strenuous exercise following treatment

Engaging in vigorous exercise or other activities that can increase blood flow to the face should be avoided for at least a couple of days after getting lip fillers. Increased blood flow can lead to increased bruising or swelling. Physical activity should be kept to a low intensity for a few days following your treatment or when the swelling subsides. If you are concerned about bruising, you can apply arnica cream on the lip border after 8 hours.

Avoid hot temperatures

As with all cosmetic treatments, avoid hot temperatures and saunas: Exposure to high temperatures, such as saunas, hot tubs, or sunbathing, can cause the blood vessels to dilate and increase the risk of bruising and swelling. It is best to avoid these activities for a few days after the procedure as they can make any swelling worse and interrupt the recovery process.

Avoid consuming spicy foods, salty foods, alcohol and blood-thinning medications

Alcohol and medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising. Spicy food can irritate your lips, too, and very salty foods will dehydrate, so it is advisable to avoid all these for a few days before and after getting lip fillers. Drink lots of water following your dermal filler treatment.

At our Southeast flagship aesthetics clinic, we only use high-quality hyaluronic acid dermal fillers known for their excellent safety record and results. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water following a dermal filler treatment will help enhance the effects of your lip injections, preserving a plump and voluminous look to the injected area.

Avoid dental procedures

If you have any upcoming dental procedures, it is recommended that you schedule them before getting lip fillers or wait until after the healing process is complete. Dental procedures that involve excessive pressure or manipulation of the lips can disrupt the filler and present a risk of complications while affecting the outcome.

Avoid excessive sun exposure

Your lip filler aftercare tips include avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sun exposure can cause inflammation, pigmentation changes, and slower healing. Protecting your lips with sunscreen or lip balm containing SPF is crucial.

Avoid making drastic changes

Following your lip filler treatment, it is essential to allow plenty of time for your filler to settle so that you can assess the effects and review the results before considering any additional cosmetic procedures. Avoid making drastic changes or seeking touch-ups too soon, as your injector may recommend waiting for the swelling to subside entirely. Book a follow-up appointment to discuss.

Following these tips for lip filler aftercare will help ensure a smooth recovery and enhance the longevity of your lip augmentation. Don’t be afraid to discuss your concerns with your aesthetics practitioner. As a qualified and experienced medical professional and healthcare professional, they will always be happy to discuss any potential risks or specific aftercare instructions related to your lip filler procedure.

Book Your Lip Filler Consultation HERE.