Blog: Minimize bruising after injectables
We all have a busy life and no one really has time for “down time.” Injectables can work wonders in filling out lines and wrinkles but there is a possibility that you may experience some bruising or swelling after the treatment. No injector can guarantee that you will not bruise from injectable treatments, but there are steps you can take to ensure that bruising is minimal and does not have a big impact on your life and social plans!
How to minimize bruising after injectables
Hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm, Belotero, Restylane) along with Radiesse are more likely to cause bruising than wrinkle reducers (B0T0X, Azzalure, or Bocouture) because the material is thicker and the needle is injected deeper into skin folds. At Face & Body Boutique, we use cannulas whenever possible which are blunted flexible cannulas to inject filler. This is much safer and less traumatic than a sharp needle as it is less likely to puncture a vessel which leads to bruising.
Although most people look fine after cosmetic injectable treatments, it is best to schedule a week or two before a special event in the unlikely chance that you bruise.
While there is no fool-proof way to avoid bruising after fillers or wrinkle relaxers, by following these tips you’ll reduce the likelihood of needing concealer make-up after your treatment!
- Avoid blood thinners.
Avoid blood thinners a week before the treatment- blood thinners make our blood “leaky” so after an injection you are more likely to bruise. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Vitamin E (multivitamins may include 40 IU of Vitamin E), Fish oil, Avocado, flax seed oil. High doses of Green Tea, Ginseng, High Omega 3 Fatty Acid food or supplements like Ginkgo Biloba, Flaxseed Oil, Chia seeds, Salmon, Mackerel, nuts and herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort, Garlic, Red Yeast Extract and many others, also act like mild versions of prescription blood thinners and definitely increase your chances of bruising. - Don’t Drink Alcohol 24 Hours Prior.
Alcohol has anti-platelet effects and increases your chances of bruising. So skip the glass of wine the night before and after your treatment. - Eat foods with a high Vitamin K content.
Vitamin K helps our platelets to become “sticky” which means you bleed less which means less bruising. Foods with high Vitamin K are Spinach, Kale and Celery.
- Eat fresh Pineapple.
Pineapple contains bromelain which has some evidence to help decrease bruising. You can also find bromelain supplements at Holland and Barrett. - Take Arnica Montana.
Begin taking Arnica tablets starting 5 days before your procedure which is a natural remedy with the power to reduce post-procedure pain and treat bruising. - No Exercise for 24 to 48 hours post procedure.
Exercise is great for your health and well-being but is not advised in the day or two following your cosmetic treatment. Physical activity increases your heart rate, blood pressure and blood flow. Minimal blood flow allows damaged capillaries to repair faster. - Elevate your head at night.
When going to bed the evening of your treatment, use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated which will help decrease swelling.
Luckily, bruises and swelling are temporary and often easy to cover up with make up! If you are undecided on facial injections you can book a free consultation to discuss any further questions or concerns. We will explain and customize a cosmetic plan to meet your needs.
At Face & Body Boutique, our goal is to help you feel your best and promise natural results!
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