What Not to Do After Botox: 24-Hour Rule & Beyond
Botox is quick, but your aftercare matters. For the first 24 hours—when the medicine is settling—small choices make a big difference. Follow these easy, evidence-based tips to protect your fresh results and feel confident right away.
Avoiding Exercise & Heat
Strenuous workouts, saunas, and hot yoga raise blood flow and body heat. That can nudge the toxin to nearby muscles, dulling your smooth finish. Play it safe: stick to light walking and skip anything that makes you sweat for at least 24 hours. One clinical review even recommends waiting a full day before vigorous exercise.
Quick tip: If your workout is non-negotiable, schedule your injections late in the day so rest comes naturally.
Sleeping Positions Post-Botox
The first night, try to sleep on your back with a slightly elevated pillow. Direct pressure on freshly treated areas can shift product and cause uneven results. If you tend to toss and turn, tuck a rolled towel behind each arm to keep you stable.
Skincare Products to Skip
Hold off on exfoliating scrubs, retinol, glycolic or salicylic acid, and facial tools for 24 hours. Gentle cleansing with lukewarm water is enough. Rubbing or massaging can push Botox beyond its target zone, a risk noted by dermatologic experts.
Alcohol and Botox: Timing Tips
Alcohol thins the blood, which can worsen bruising. Avoid drinks for 24 hours before and after your appointment. Swap the celebratory cocktail for sparkling water—your skin will thank you.
Managing Minor Bruises
A tiny bruise is normal. Dab a cool compress for 10 minutes, three times a day, and consider arnica gel if your provider approves it. Skip makeup for the first few hours so the skin can breathe.
Why Choose Calista Aesthetics in Santa Ana, South Coast Metro?
Calista Aesthetics’ injectors combine medical precision with an artist’s eye. We use only FDA-approved neuromodulators and follow the latest safety protocols. Our cozy Santa Ana, South Coast Metro suite lets you relax, knowing you’re minutes from home if you need us for a follow-up.
If you’re near Costa Mesa or Irvine, our Santa Ana location is easy to reach.