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Facial Aesthetics Aftercare Guide

Your complete guide to post-treatment care, ensuring optimal results and longevity of your facial aesthetic treatments.

First 24 Hours After Treatment

Recommended Actions

These actions will promote optimal results and reduce discomfort after your facial aesthetic treatment.

  • Apply ice packs intermittently (10 minutes on, 10 off)
  • Keep your head elevated while sleeping
  • Take prescribed medications as directed
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
  • Rest and avoid strenuous activities

Activities to Avoid

These activities can affect your results or cause complications after treatment.

  • Don't apply makeup for at least 12 hours
  • Avoid excessive heat (saunas, hot showers)
  • Don't massage or rub the treated areas
  • Avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours
  • Don't engage in strenuous exercise

Your Recovery Timeline

1-3
Days

Initial Recovery

  • Some swelling happens on occasion
  • Regular ice pack application
  • Minimal facial expressions
4-7
Days

Early Results

  • Swelling begins to subside
  • Initial results becoming visible
  • Return to light activities
2nd
Week

Progressive Results

  • Full effect of Botox becoming apparent
  • Fillers settling into final position
  • Normal daily activities resume
1
Month

Optimal Results

  • Full treatment effects visible
  • Follow-up appointment if needed
  • Normal skincare routine resumes
  • Assessment for any touch-ups
3-6
Months

Maintenance Phase

  • Botox effects gradually diminishing
  • Fillers still providing results
  • Consider maintenance treatments
  • Long-term skincare regimen

Aftercare Tips for Facial Aesthetic Treatments

Skin Care

Proper skincare is essential after facial aesthetic treatments to maintain results and promote healing.

Products to Avoid

These products may irritate treated skin or affect results.

  • Retinol (for 3-5 days)
  • Glycolic and salicylic acids
  • Harsh exfoliants
  • Alcohol-based toners
  • Fragranced products
Lifestyle

Habits to Avoid

These activities can compromise your results.

  • Excessive sun exposure
  • Smoking and vaping
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Extreme temperature exposure
  • High-intensity exercise (first 48 hours)
Treatment Support

Warning Signs

Contact us immediately if you experience:

  • Severe or increasing pain
  • Significant asymmetry
  • Unusual swelling after 3 days
  • Skin blanching or discoloration
  • Vision changes or severe headache

Long-term Facial Aesthetics Care

Care AspectDetailsFrequencyTools/Products
Skincare RoutineGentle cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection. Use products recommended by your practitioner and avoid harsh exfoliants or active ingredients until fully healed.DailyGentle cleanser, moisturizer, SPF 30+ sunscreen, hyaluronic acid serum
Maintenance TreatmentsSchedule follow-up treatments to maintain results. Botox typically needs renewal every 3-4 months, while fillers may last 6-18 months depending on type and location.Every 3-18 monthsProfessional aesthetic treatments
Lifestyle HabitsMaintain hydration, limit sun exposure, avoid smoking, practice good sleep habits, and follow a balanced diet rich in antioxidants.OngoingSun protection, healthy diet, adequate water intake
Warning SignsMonitor for unusual asymmetry, persistent swelling, skin discoloration, lumps or nodules, or migration of filler products.As neededConsult with your aesthetic practitioner

Recommended Facial Aesthetics Products

ProductBrandsWhat it Takes Care ofDetails
Gentle CleanserCeraVe, La Roche-Posay, CetaphilSkin cleansingNon-foaming, fragrance-free cleansers that won't irritate treated skin.
Hyaluronic Acid SerumThe Ordinary, SkinCeuticals, VichyHydration, PlumpingHelps maintain hydration and enhance the effects of dermal fillers.
Mineral SunscreenEltaMD, Colorescience, AvèneSun protectionBroad-spectrum SPF 30+ that protects treated skin from UV damage.
Arnica Gel/CreamBoiron, NaturopathicaBruising, SwellingHelps reduce bruising and swelling after injections.
Antioxidant SerumSkinCeuticals, Drunk Elephant, Paula's ChoiceFree radical protectionProtects skin from environmental damage and enhances results.
Cooling Gel MaskSkinMedica, Peter Thomas RothSoothing, InflammationProvides cooling relief and reduces inflammation after treatments.
Mineral MakeupBareMinerals, Jane Iredale, ColorescienceGentle coverageNon-comedogenic makeup that's safe to use after initial healing.
Cold CompressTheraPearl, Arctic FlexSwelling reductionReduces swelling and provides comfort after treatment.
Gentle Lip BalmAquaphor, La Roche-Posay, Dr. LippLip hydrationKeeps lips hydrated after lip filler treatments.
Vitamin K CreamRevision Skincare, DerMendBruise healingHelps speed up the healing of bruises after injections.
Peptide SerumThe Ordinary, NIOD, Paula's ChoiceSkin repairSupports skin repair and collagen production.
Facial MistAvène, La Roche-Posay, Tower 28Hydration, SoothingProvides gentle hydration and soothes treated skin.

Common Facial Aesthetics Aftercare Questions

When can I return to work after facial aesthetic treatments? +

Most patients can return to work the same day or within 24-48 hours following non-surgical facial aesthetic treatments in London. For Botox, there is virtually no downtime. Dermal fillers may cause some swelling or bruising that can last 2-3 days. If you're concerned about visible effects, consider scheduling your appointment on a Friday to allow weekend recovery. Each person's recovery varies, so follow your practitioner's specific advice.

What activities should I avoid after treatment? +

For 24-48 hours after treatment, avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol consumption, and excessive heat (saunas, hot yoga, sunbathing). These can increase blood flow and potentially worsen bruising or swelling. Also avoid touching or massaging the treated area unless specifically instructed by your London aesthetics practitioner. For Botox specifically, remain upright for 4 hours and avoid facials or facial massages for 2 weeks.

How do I reduce swelling and bruising? +

Apply cold compresses to the treated area for 10 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours. Arnica gel or tablets can help reduce bruising (available at Boots or Holland & Barrett across London). Keep your head elevated while sleeping for the first night. Products containing Vitamin K, like Auriderm Post-Procedure Gel, available at select London skincare clinics, may help speed bruise healing. Stay hydrated and consider taking bromelain supplements, which may help reduce inflammation.

What are the signs of complications? +

Signs that require immediate attention include severe pain, blanching or whitening of the skin, blurred vision, unusual asymmetry, or significant swelling beyond what was expected. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your London clinic immediately or visit the A&E department at hospitals like Royal London Hospital or University College Hospital. Most reputable London aesthetic clinics offer 24-hour emergency contacts for post-treatment concerns.

Can I wear makeup after facial aesthetic treatments? +

For most dermal filler treatments, avoid applying makeup for 24 hours to reduce the risk of infection at injection sites. After Botox, you can generally apply makeup after 4 hours, but avoid pressure or rubbing on the treated areas. When resuming makeup application, ensure your brushes and sponges are clean. London makeup brands like Charlotte Tilbury and Trinny London offer lightweight products that won't put excessive pressure on recently treated skin.

How long until I see results? +

Results vary by treatment. Dermal fillers provide immediate volume, though final results are visible after swelling subsides (typically 1-2 weeks). Botox takes 3-14 days to fully develop, with maximum effect around day 14. Skin treatments like chemical peels or microneedling performed at London clinics may require multiple sessions over weeks or months for optimal results. Your practitioner at your Harley Street or other London clinic should provide you with specific timelines for your particular treatment.

How long will my results last? +

Treatment longevity varies: Botox typically lasts 3-4 months, while hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or Restylane last 6-18 months depending on the specific product and treatment area. London's weather conditions, particularly the pollution and variable humidity, may affect skin treatments, so follow your practitioner's recommended skincare routine. Maintenance appointments at your London clinic will help sustain results, and many clinics offer membership programs for regular treatments.

When should I schedule a follow-up appointment? +

Most London aesthetic clinics recommend a follow-up appointment 2 weeks after your initial treatment, especially for first-time clients. This allows your practitioner to assess results and make any necessary adjustments. For Botox, any touch-ups can be performed at this time. Establish a treatment calendar with your London practitioner for maintenance treatments - many high-end London clinics like those in Mayfair and Knightsbridge offer reminder services and priority booking for returning clients.

Need Additional Support?

Our specialist team is here to help you through your recovery journey.

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