After looking at countless before and after pictures and talking to your girlfriends who've already tried it, you've decided to get Botox for the first time. Botox is a non-invasive, quick, in-office procedure that leaves your lines and wrinkles less noticeable. Botox can also make your face look more refreshed and can even help with migraine headaches. Now that you know what you have to look forward to with Botox, here are a few tips to help you prepare for your first appointment:
Avoid Bruising By Knowing What to Avoid
Some people experience tell-tale bruising after getting Botox, but in many cases this can be prevented if you know what to avoid. In general, any known blood thinners should be avoided in the days leading up to your Botox appointment, and for a day or two afterward. For example, taking painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen can contribute to bruising since they thin the blood. Alcoholic beverages should also be avoided before and after your appointment to minimize the chances of bruising. When in doubt, ask your doctor about a specific medication or supplement.
Don't Lay Down Right Afterward
Your Botox needs a few hours to fully settle into the proper places in your face. This makes laying down right after your Botox appointment a no-no. You can (and probably should) definitely relax after your appointment, but avoid fully laying down for at least a few hours, and especially avoid laying face-down. After those few hours are up, your Botox will be appropriately settled and you can lay down and sleep like normal whenever you like.
Plan to Take the Rest of the Day Off
Botox appointments only take a short amount of time, and since there are often no side effects, many people go back to work or even meet friends for lunch right after their appointment. Since this is your first appointment, however, it's a better idea to plan on heading home and laying low for a few hours after your appointment. Everyone reacts to Botox differently, and you may have swelling or bruising. While unlikely, an allergic reaction is also possible. It's best to plan on spending a few hours at home until you see how your face responds to Botox.
Getting Botox from an experienced aesthetician or dermatologist and following these tips will help ensure you get the results you want, with minimal or no side effects.
