Facial Aesthetics Aftercare Guide

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.