Facial fillers are an effective way to enhance your natural beauty, whether you’re smoothing out wrinkles or adding volume to your cheeks. However, the work doesn’t stop once you leave the clinic. Proper aftercare is crucial in ensuring that your results are as beautiful and long-lasting as possible. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best ways to care for your fillers in the days, weeks, and months after your treatment so that you can enjoy your gorgeous new look to the fullest.
What Should You Do Right After Treatment?
Your doctor will have provided you with some instructions regarding aftercare and the specific steps you should take right after your treatment. You can find a summary of common recommendations below.
Use Ice Packs
If you experience any swelling after your filler treatment, applying an ice pack to the area can help. Use a clean cloth or towel to wrap the ice pack before gently pressing it against your skin for 10-15 minutes every hour. This will help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Avoid Touching Your Face
For at least 6 hours following your appointment, refrain from touching, pressing, or massaging the treated areas. This is important for preventing migration of the filler and ensuring that it settles properly.
Stay Upright
Your doctor will likely advise you to stay upright for at least 4 hours post-treatment. This helps to prevent any potential movement of the face filler and allows it to settle evenly.
Avoid Makeup
While it might be tempting to cover any redness or swelling with makeup, it’s best to avoid doing so for at least 24 hours. This gives your skin a chance to breathe and heal, reducing the risk of infection.
Care for Your Fillers Over the Next Few Days
Once you’ve taken care of the immediate post-treatment recommendations, there are a few other things you can do to ensure that your fillers heal properly and provide you with the best results possible.
Keep Your Skin Clean
Gently cleanse the treated area with a mild cleanser that’s free from alcohol and fragrances. This will help prevent irritation and infection while allowing your skin to heal.
Moisturize
Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin supple. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, which can help maintain the moisture level of your skin without causing irritation.
Schedule a Follow-Up Appointment
Most clinics will recommend a follow-up appointment about two weeks after your treatment. This is a great opportunity for your healthcare provider to assess the results of your filler and make any necessary adjustments. Regular check-ups also help build a good relationship with your practitioner, ensuring that they understand your preferences and needs.
Things to Avoid in the Week Following Filler Treatment
There are a few activities that, while enjoyable, might compromise the results of your filler treatment if done too soon after.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise
While physical activity is generally a great part of a healthy lifestyle, it’s best to put off strenuous workouts for at least 24 hours after getting facial fillers. High-intensity workouts can increase blood flow to the face, which may exacerbate swelling and bruising.
Skip Alcohol
Alcohol can also increase swelling and lead to dehydration. If you’re looking to enjoy your new fillers to the fullest, it’s best to skip the happy hour for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
Don’t Get Facial Treatments
Avoid scheduling any facials, microdermabrasion, or chemical peels for at least a week. These treatments can irritate the skin and potentially disrupt the filler while it’s still settling.
What to Expect a Few Weeks After Treatment
After the initial swelling and bruising have subsided, most people find that their fillers look and feel natural. However, there are a few things to keep in mind as your skin continues to adjust.
Initial Adjustment Period
It can take anywhere from two days to two weeks for your skin to fully adjust to the filler. During this time, you might notice some minor fluctuations in how your filler looks. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, don’t hesitate to contact your practitioner.
Watch for Signs of Migration
In the rare event that the filler begins to shift from its original position (known as migration), you may notice changes in the appearance of the treated area. If you suspect this is happening, reach out to your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Continue Regular Moisturizing
To maintain the appearance of your fillers, continue using a gentle moisturizer on your face. Adequate hydration helps keep your skin looking plump and youthful, complementing the effects of the filler.
Ongoing Care Throughout the Year
Once you’ve reached the one-month mark post-treatment, there are a few longer-term strategies you can adopt to keep your fillers looking their best.
Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure
UV rays can break down hyaluronic acid, the main ingredient in many fillers. To protect your skin and prolong the life of your filler, make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days.
Use Gentle Skincare Products
While it may be tempting to use powerful exfoliants and retinoids, such products can irritate your skin and potentially affect the longevity of your filler. Stick to gentle, hydrating products that support your skin’s barrier function.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water keeps your skin hydrated from the inside. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, can also help maintain your skin’s elasticity and overall health.
Schedule Regular Touch-Up Appointments
Facial fillers are not permanent and will require maintenance over time. Work with your practitioner to establish a schedule for touch-ups based on your individual needs and how quickly your body metabolizes the filler.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your facial fillers requires a bit of effort, but the results are certainly worth it! By following the aftercare instructions given by your healthcare provider and adopting some simple habits, you can enjoy your plump and youthful appearance for as long as possible. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about your fillers or their aftercare, don’t hesitate to reach out to expert practitioners at Kelly Oriental Aesthetic. Enjoy your beautiful new look!
