What NOT to Do After Botox Injections?
Your Essential Post-Treatment Guide from the Experts at Get Tox’d
You’ve just been Tox’d—congrats! Whether it's your first time or you're a regular, what you do after your Botox treatment can be just as important as the treatment itself. Proper post-care ensures optimal results, reduces side effects, and protects your investment in looking fresh and confident.
At Get Tox’d, we want you to love your results—and that starts with avoiding the common post-treatment mistakes outlined below. Backed by recent medical studies, this guide is your no-nonsense, science-supported checklist for what NOT to do after Botox.
1. Don’t Lie Down for 4 Hours
Why it matters:
Lying down too soon can cause Botox to migrate to unintended areas of the face, potentially leading to complications like eyelid drooping (ptosis) or asymmetry.
What the science says:
A 2022 review in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology recommends keeping your head elevated for at least 4 hours post-treatment to prevent diffusion of the toxin.
Get Tox’d Tip: Stay upright, and skip the nap. Your results will thank you.
2. No Touching, Massaging, or Rubbing the Treated Areas
Why it matters:
Rubbing or massaging can cause the Botox to spread beyond the intended injection site.
What the science says:
A 2023 clinical guideline published in the Journal of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery states that pressure on treated muscles can increase the risk of toxin migration and uneven results.
Get Tox’d Tip: Be gentle. Let your face rest naturally for at least 24 hours.
3. Avoid Intense Exercise for 24–48 Hours
Why it matters:
High blood flow from intense workouts can dilute or disperse Botox before it settles properly.
What the science says:
A 2021 randomized study in Dermatologic Therapy found that patients who exercised within 24 hours post-Botox had less effective results and increased bruising.
Get Tox’d Tip: Take the day off. Your skin will appreciate the rest.
4. No Saunas, Steam Rooms, or Hot Baths for 24 Hours
Why it matters:
Heat causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing the risk of swelling, bruising, and toxin spread.
What the science says:
A 2020 study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open found that heat exposure within 24 hours of Botox injections increased the likelihood of adverse effects, especially in facial areas.
Get Tox’d Tip: Keep it cool—literally.
5. Skip Alcohol for at Least 24 Hours
Why it matters:
Alcohol is a natural blood thinner and can increase your risk of bruising and swelling at the injection site.
What the science says:
A clinical trial in The Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy (2022) linked alcohol consumption before or after Botox with a 37% higher chance of post-treatment bruising.
Get Tox’d Tip: Save the celebration for the next day.
6. Avoid Facial Treatments for 1–2 Weeks
Why it matters:
Facials, chemical peels, microneedling, and laser treatments can interfere with Botox absorption and increase sensitivity or complications.
What the science says:
According to a 2023 consensus paper in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, combining aggressive skin treatments with Botox too soon can compromise both procedures and heighten risk of inflammation or infection.
Get Tox’d Tip: Schedule your skincare treatments at least 2 weeks after your injections.
7. Don’t Expect Instant Results
Why it matters:
Botox takes time to work. Impatience can lead people to over-treat or worry prematurely.
What the science says:
Botox generally begins working within 3–5 days, with full results showing in 10–14 days, as confirmed in multiple studies including a 2022 review in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.
Get Tox’d Tip: Be patient. Great things come to those who wait.
8. Don’t Sleep on Your Face
Why it matters:
Sleeping face-down or pressing your face into a pillow too soon can affect how Botox settles and possibly lead to uneven results.
Get Tox’d Tip: Try sleeping on your back for the first 1–2 nights. Use extra pillows to stay elevated.
9. Don’t Ignore Side Effects
While mild bruising or tenderness is normal, symptoms like drooping eyelids, vision changes, or severe swelling need prompt attention.
What the science says:
Serious side effects are rare (<1%), but always report unusual reactions, as advised by the FDA and reaffirmed in a 2023 clinical safety review.
Get Tox’d Tip: When in doubt, reach out. We’re always here to help.
Final Word from Get Tox’d
What you DON’T do after Botox matters.
Following these science-backed tips can help ensure your Botox delivers beautiful, balanced, and lasting results—with fewer risks and no regrets.
Quick Recap: What to Avoid After Botox
No lying down for 4 hours
No face touching or massage for 24 hours
No exercise, alcohol, or heat for 24–48 hours
No facials or treatments for 1–2 weeks
No sleeping on your face
No impatience—results take time
No ignoring side effects
Ready for Your Next Tox Session?
Book with our medically licensed team at Get Tox’d—where precision, safety, and science meet results you’ll love. Whether you’re new to Botox or a returning client, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
