Skin can look pink or puffy right after an injection, and the first hours are when small habits count most. This page lays out the first-day steps from two published sources, in the order you will use them.
The first hours at rest
To reduce redness, swelling or bruising, Cleveland Clinic advises not rubbing or putting pressure on the treatment area for 12 hours. Cleveland Clinic also advises staying upright, not lying down, for three to four hours.
The Cleveland Clinic overview of botulinum toxin injections is where these steps come from.
Washing and touching your face
Medical News Today says to avoid touching your face, including washing it, so the injection sites can heal fully. It says this typically takes at least 6 hours.
If you need to wash your face within 24 hours of the procedure, Medical News Today advises using only clean hands and sterile water.
Work and exertion
Cleveland Clinic says that, unless your healthcare provider says otherwise, you can return to work and most activities immediately after treatment. It also advises avoiding physical exertion for 24 hours.
The two instructions sit side by side: ordinary activity is fine, strenuous exertion waits. For a professional-body view of the treatment, see the American Society of Plastic Surgeons page on botulinum toxin.
The first day at a glance
- Three to four hours: stay upright.
- At least 6 hours: keep hands off the face, including washing.
- 12 hours: no rubbing or pressure on the treated area.
- 24 hours: no hard exertion, and sterile water only if you must wash.
When to ask for help
These steps aim at redness, swelling and bruising. Where your own provider's instructions differ, follow your provider, which is what Cleveland Clinic's "unless your healthcare provider says otherwise" allows for.
If the skin looks different from ordinary redness, the Cleveland Clinic drug information on Botox Cosmetic uses and side effects lists what to report and when.