Dermal fillers are a popular and effective way to rejuvenate your appearance, offering immediate results with minimal downtime. Whether you’ve had fillers to enhance your lips, cheeks, or smooth out wrinkles, proper aftercare is essential to ensure the best possible outcome. At Southface Skin Clinic, we’re committed to helping you maintain your refreshed look. Here are our expert tips for aftercare following your dermal filler treatment.
1. Immediately After Treatment
Avoid Touching: Refrain from touching, pressing, or massaging the treated area for at least 6 hours post-treatment. This helps prevent infection and ensures the filler settles properly.
Ice the Area: Applying a cold compress or ice pack can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Use it intermittently (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) during the first 24 hours.
Stay Upright: Avoid lying down for at least 4 hours after your treatment. This helps prevent the filler from migrating and ensures even distribution.
2. First 24-48 Hours
Avoid Strenuous Activity: Refrain from intense physical activities, including exercise, for the first 24-48 hours to minimise swelling and bruising.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body heal and maintain skin hydration.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These can exacerbate swelling and bruising, so it’s best to avoid them for the first 48 hours.
Skip the Make-up: Avoid applying makeup to the treated area for at least 24 hours to reduce the risk of infection.
3. First Week
Sleep Elevated: Use an extra pillow to keep your head elevated while sleeping, which can help reduce swelling.
Avoid Heat Exposure: Steer clear of saunas, hot tubs, and prolonged sun exposure, as heat can increase swelling and irritation.
Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your face gently with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser. Avoid facial scrubs or exfoliating products.
Protect Your Skin: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect the treated areas from UV damage.
4. Long-Term Care
Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dermatologist to assess the results and address any concerns.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular hydration to support the longevity of your results.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact your skin’s healing process and the longevity of your fillers.
5.Common Concerns
Swelling and Bruising: It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising in the first few days. This typically subsides within a week. Arnica cream can be helpful in reducing bruising.
Lumps and Bumps: You may feel small lumps or bumps under your skin. These usually settle within a few days to a week. If they persist, contact your dermatologist.
Pain or Discomfort: Mild pain or tenderness at the injection site is common. Over-the-counter pain relief like acetaminophen can help, but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, as they can increase bruising.
At Southface Skin Clinic, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. By following these aftercare tips, you can help ensure that your dermal filler treatment yields the best possible results. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts.