Botox Aftercare

By Dr. Russ Wong, MD, FRCPC

What to Expect and How to Support Your Best Results.

Botulinum toxin injections (commonly known as Botox) are a trusted and effective cosmetic treatment for softening fine lines, reducing dynamic facial wrinkles, and restoring a smoother, rejuvenated appearance. While the treatment itself is quick, following the right post-Botox instructions is key to ensuring you get optimal results—with minimal side effects or downtime.

Whether you’ve chosen Botox injections to address glabellar lines, forehead creases, or crow’s feet, here’s what to expect after your appointment and how to care for your skin in the days that follow.

Common Side Effects After Botox Injections

Botulinum toxin Type A is a muscle relaxant that temporarily reduces muscle contraction, particularly in overactive facial muscles.

Redness or swelling
Mild bruising and tenderness
Temporary skin sensitivity
Rarely, headache or flu-like symptoms

Some patients also experience minor bruising and swelling at the injection points. Using ice packs on treated areas (in short, gentle intervals) can help ease discomfort and reduce inflammation.

BOTOX AFTERCARE

WHAT TO AVOID AFTER BOTOX

For the first 24 hours after your Botox injections, avoid the following:

Physical exercise or strenuous activity
Facial massages or treatments, including dermal filler injections
Heat exposure, such as saunas, hot tubs, or long showers
Alcohol and blood thinners, as these can increase the risk of bruising

You should also skip applying topical skincare products that contain active ingredients like retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids directly on injection sites. These may irritate the skin and interfere with healing.

FACIAL EXERCISES: YES OR NO?

You may have heard that light facial exercises—like raising your eyebrows or gently smiling—can help Botox settle into the right muscles. While the research is still evolving, some studies suggest that activating the facial muscles treated with Botox may support faster onset of action. At our clinic in Edmonton, we may recommend light movement depending on your specific treatment plan.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

Botox is generally very well-tolerated. However, in rare cases, complications such as Droopy Eyelids, visual problems, or excessive muscle weakness can occur. These side effects are uncommon but should be addressed promptly. If you experience any difficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

LONG-TERM POST-CARE AND SKIN MAINTENANCE

To maintain your results, it’s important to follow a long-term post-care routine. This may include:

Wearing SPF daily to protect skin from UV damage
Using gentle skincare products that support hydration and skin health
Combining Botox with other skin treatments such as Hyaluronic acid facial fillers, skinboosters, or laser therapy as advised
Scheduling regular touch-ups, typically every 3–4 months

At our Edmonton clinic, your Botox experience is always tailored to your anatomy, goals, and long-term results. Whether you’re managing fine lines or looking for broader rejuvenation, your treatment plan is guided by expert dermatological care from a team that prioritises both safety and precision.

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Botox Aftercare

Learn expert Botox aftercare tips from Dr. Russ Wong in Edmonton. Discover what to avoid, how to manage side effects, and how to support long-lasting, natural-looking results.

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DISCLAIMER: RESULTS MAY VARY FROM PERSON TO PERSON AND TREATMENT TO TREATMENT