The most important action you can take after lip filler injections is proper lip filler aftercare. Although some swelling, tenderness, and bruising are common results of lip injections, if you follow specific guidelines for care immediately following your procedure, you will minimize post-treatment complications and enjoy optimal results.
These tips apply to virtually all types of lip fillers, including collagen and hyaluronic acid injections.
Things to Avoid After Lip Injections
- Avoid smoking after filler injections. Nicotine compromises blood flow to the skin, which can prolong swelling and bruising for several weeks after treatment. A general guideline is to wait at least one week (up to three weeks if possible) before having another procedure done on the area of your lips where you received lip injections.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and other physically demanding activities for at least 24 hours after getting lip fillers . Heavy exertion increases blood flow to the skin, which can prolong swelling and bruising for several weeks. If you are unsure about whether a certain activity is too strenuous on your lips, ask your injector.
- Avoid extremely hot or cold temperatures for at least 24 hours after lip filler injections . Extremely hot or cold temperatures can cause bruising and swelling to worsen. If you are unsure, talk with your injector about what types of temperature changes you should avoid.
- Avoid touching your lips. The more you touch your injected lips, the greater the risk of forming an overlying skin infection or hyperpigmentation . You should avoid touching your lip area for at least 24 hours after receiving lip injections.
- Avoid putting on facial products (e.g., makeup) in your lip filler injection areas for 24–48 hours after getting lip injection procedures. Even if you intend to use a facial product (e.g., lipstick or lip gloss), avoid applying it directly to your lips for at least 24 hours after receiving injections.
- Avoid blowing on or licking your lips for at least 24 hours after lip filler injections . Blowing on your injected lips causes the lips and surrounding areas to dry out, while licking your lips can irritate your skin and increase your risk of developing an overlying skin infection.
- If you have a fever or feel sick after lip filler injections , contact your injector immediately.