​Dermal fillers have over the several years become one of the most sought-after options for enhancing facial aesthetics, offering patients a way to reduce the signs of aging and achieve desired facial contours without undergoing invasive surgeries.

However, one thing that isn’t mentioned much in the discussion about fillers is the importance of dermal filler aftercare: despite minimally invasive, dermal filler treatments are still a medical procedure like any other, and to ensure that the post-treatment phase goes smoothly and you achieve the desired results, it’s crucial that you are aware what not to do after dermal fillers.

To help you with this, in this article, we go through everything you need to do or avoid after a dermal filler treatment to ensure optimal recovery and longevity of the treatment effects. 

Importance of dermal filler aftercare

The decision to buy dermal fillers ,which are among the most popular medical aesthetic procedures, can be exciting, and we know it!However, to ensure that you achieve the results you are looking for safely and comfortably, you need to be aware of the importance of aftercare for dermal fillers and be ready to put in the time and effort to do them, and here is why:

• Aftercare following dermal filler treatment is pivotal in minimizing the risk of complications, such as infection or unwanted displacement of the filler. 
• Proper aftercare can also significantly affect how long dermal fillers last, maximizing the duration of their aesthetic benefits.Choosing fillers from the best dermal filler brands can further enhance these outcomes, ensuring you benefit from the highest quality and most reliable products in your aesthetic journey.
• Adhering to aftercare instructions provided by your medical practitioner ensures a smoother recovery and helps maintain the integrity of the filler material.

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that correctly following the dermal filler aftercare instructions can be decisive in whether the treatment is safe and effective or not, and as such, is something you should be aware of even before you consider getting fillers. 

What to avoid after dermal filler treatment

After you’ve had the dermal filler treatment, there are certain activities and substances it’s recommended that you avoid as they can increase the risk of complications (as the treatment area is especially sensitive at the time!) or diminish the results of the fillers.

First of all, you need to avoid vigorous physical activities and strenuous exercise for 1-2 days after the treatment, as they can increase blood flow to the face, potentially exacerbating swelling and bruising at the injection sites. High-intensity workouts can also raise blood pressure, leading to additional stress on the injection areas.

Secondly, avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, both too hot (like steam rooms, hot tubs, and even hot beverages, if you got lip injections) and too cold, as they can worsen the swelling and bruising. Avoid exposing yourself to too much heat and too much cold for at least a week, or longer, until extreme swelling and redness have subsided.

Next, sun exposure and tanning beds should be avoided as they risk not only damage the now-sensitive skin, but also the UV rays can accelerate the breakdown of the fillers, reducing the effectiveness and longevity of the treatment. It’s recommended that you avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least two weeks after the treatment, and use a broad-range sunscreen of at least SPF 30.

Lastly, some of the other instructions include avoiding alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours post-treatment, touching and massaging the treatment areas for at least 48 hours, as well as avoiding makeup and certain skincare products, including products containing retinol, glycolic acid, or other exfoliating agents, as they can irritate the skin.

Dermal filler aftercare tips

Now, let’s take a look at some dermal filler aftercare tips, both directly for post-injection and for long-term care to ensure that the aftercare procedure is smooth, and the post-treatment stage is comfortable and easy for you.Also ensuring the use of high-quality aesthetic needles and PDO threads during your treatment can significantly reduce the risk of bruising and swelling, making your aftercare process smoother.

Immediate aftercare

The first 24 hours after receiving dermal fillers are critical for ensuring a smooth recovery process. Some immediate dermal filler aftercare tips include:

• Applying ice packs to the treated areas to reduce swelling and bruising. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin, and don’t keep them for too long to avoid exposure to extreme cold. Apply them for 10-15 minutes every few hours
• Refraining from touching, pressing, or massaging the treated areas no matter how strong the temptation is to prevent the filler from moving. If you are feeling itching or pain (although there should be little to no pain after the procedure), take pain relief medications to avoid discomfort
• Start the skincare routine prescribed by your doctor as soon as possible after the treatment. The products may include gentle cleansers and specific moisturizers that are designed to support and speed up the healing process.

Make sure to ask your doctor about the detailed procedures to follow directly post-procedure to ensure you take the correct steps.Following your treatment, it's essential to use products that are gentle on your skin. Brands like Juvederm, Restylane, and Sculptra offer specific aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of their products' effects. Adhering to these guidelines can help maximize the duration of the aesthetic benefits. 

Aftercare in the first week

Navigating the first week after dermal filler treatment is pivotal for optimal healing and maintaining the aesthetics of the procedure. Here's a concise guide to ensure the best outcomes:

• Initiate a mild skincare routine that may include gentle cleansing and moisturizing. Opt for products free of irritants and fragrances, as recommended by your doctor, to aid in the healing process without causing undue stress to the sensitive areas.
• One non-obvious step over the initial week that you need to take is staying hydrated and eating well, as your body needs lots of nutrients and water to effectively navigate the healing process.
• Be attentive to changes in the treated areas for any signs that may warrant attention, such as unusual swelling, excessive bruising, or indications of infection. Promptly reporting these to your practitioner can mitigate potential complications.
• Adjust your sleeping position to avoid pressure on treated areas, and if you have filler injections on your face, make sure to elevate your head during sleep to minimize swelling. 

In addition, it’s recommended that you still avoid rigorous exercises and attend follow-up appointments to safeguard you of any complications and disappointments.

• Establish a skincare regimen that caters to the needs of your skin post-filler treatment. This might include products that promote hydration, offer anti-aging benefits, and protect against environmental damage. Discuss with your treating aesthetician which type of products they will recommend that will complement the effects of the fillers, all while also meeting your skincare needs.
• Ensure daily sun protection by using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 as part of your daily routine, as UV exposure can significantly shorten the lifespan of your fillers and contribute to premature aging. 
• Engaging in regular, moderate exercise promotes circulation and overall health, which can reflect positively on your skin. However, consult your doctor on the appropriate time to resume intense workouts post-treatment.