Before and After Botox Tips

Before and after botox tips

If you’re like most of our patients, Botox has become your go-to for smoothing out wrinkles and maintaining a youthful appearance. Perhaps you’re considering it for the first time and are unclear about what to expect or the aftercare necessary to maintain optimal results. When it comes to the do’s and don’ts of Botox, we’ve got you covered! Botox is our most popular anti-ageing treatment and is administered only by our owner and medical director, Dr. Robert Colvin. Dr. Colvin is a highly trained professional with over 15 years of medical esthetics experience who’s been lovingly coined “The Botox Doc” in our community, and by our loyal clientele. Botox is the most trusted anti-ageing cosmetic treatment worldwide and when administered correctly by a medical professional, is a safe and highly effective tool to minimize and prevent visible ageing. 


As with any medical procedure, it’s important to take certain steps and precautions to reduce potential side effects in order to achieve an optimal result.

Pre-Botox Treatment

  • Avoid anti-inflammatory/blood thinning medications for 2 weeks prior to treatment to reduce the risk of bruising or inflammation post-treatment. 

  • Stop using Tretinoin and all exfoliating products for 3 days pre and post injection

  • You cannot receive Botox if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Don’t drink alcohol 24 hours prior as this can increase your risk of bruising

  • Do not exercise for 3 hours prior to treatment as the increase blood flow increase your risk of bruising

Post-Botox Treatment

  • Avoid using actives (tretinoin, hydroxy acids, enzyme exfoliation, scrubs) for at least 2-3 days post-treatment

  • Do not lie face down for 4+ hours 

  • On the day of your appointment, avoid heavy alcohol consumption

  • Apply makeup only if necessary and avoid using makeup brushes as they can increase the risk of creating a localized infection

  • Don’t massage or manipulate the skin for 3 hours post treatment

  • Wait at 1-2 weeks before receiving skin treatments

Post-Botox Skincare Guidelines

  • Use gentle cleansers for the first 3 days and avoid rinsing the skin with hot water

  • Incorporate antioxidants into your morning and evening routine to boost skin healing

  • If bruising occurs apply topical arnica every 2-4 hours to the affected area/s

  • Avoid direct sun exposure. Although UV light won’t harm the results of your Botox, it can cause skin sensitivity and redness which can slow down the healing process

  • Get glowing by introducing powerhouse ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid

The results from Botox usually last 2-4 months but in some cases, they can last even longer! Maintenance injections help keep you looking younger and prevent future skin ageing. They should be scheduled 3-4 months after your first treatment and can be scheduled immediately after your first Botox experience.

We’re always available to address any concerns or challenges our patients have and highly recommend scheduling a consultation with our staff prior to your appointment. we’re 100% committed to helping you get the most out of your Botox experience and you can trust in our years of experience to provide you natural looking, beautiful results. Contact us at 415-409-6500 or online to schedule your appointment.

Learn more about our skincare services here or contact our San Francisco office and call us at 415.409.6500.