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- Author e-FILLERS Team
- Nov 12th, 2025
What to Avoid Before & After Fillers: Alcohol, Skincare, Exercise & More
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Dermal fillers are one of the most popular aesthetic treatments — but achieving smooth, natural-looking results depends not only on the injector’s skill, but also on proper preparation and aftercare. Certain habits, foods, medications or skincare products can increase bruising, swelling, or even affect the longevity of the filler.
This guide explains what to avoid before and after filler injections, and why these steps matter for safety and results.
What to Avoid Before Filler Injections
1. Alcohol (24–48 hours before)
Alcohol thins the blood and dilates blood vessels, increasing the risk of bruising and swelling. Avoid wine, beer, spirits, and even alcohol-based supplements.
2. Blood-Thinning Medications & Supplements
If medically allowed by your doctor, avoid (for 3–5 days before treatment):
Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen
Omega-3 fish oils, vitamin E
Garlic supplements, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, turmeric, St. John’s wort
Never stop prescription medication without medical advice.
3. Intense Exercise (24 hours before)
Heavy workouts increase blood pressure and circulation, raising the chance of bruising. Light walking is fine — avoid high-intensity training.
4. Dental Procedures (2 weeks before and after)
Dental work can cause pressure, inflammation and introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, which may affect filler-treated areas — especially around the lips.
5. Active Skin Irritation or Infection
Postpone treatment if you have:
Cold sores (herpes simplex)
Skin infections, acne flare-ups, eczema
Sunburn or irritated skin
6. Harsh Skincare Products
Avoid 24 hours before:
Retinol / Retinoids
AHAs/BHAs (glycolic, salicylic acid)
Strong exfoliating scrubs
These can irritate the skin and increase sensitivity during injections.
What to Avoid After Filler Treatments
1. Touching or Massaging the Area
No pressing, rubbing or sleeping on the treated area for 24–48 hours. Fillers need time to settle in place.
2. Makeup (For 12–24 Hours)
Applying makeup too soon may introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection, especially in injection points.
3. Alcohol (24–48 Hours After)
Alcohol worsens swelling and bruising. Staying hydrated with water is best.
4. Intense Exercise (24–48 Hours After)
Avoid the gym, running, weightlifting, hot yoga and any activity that increases heart rate or facial pressure. Exercise can increase swelling and move filler before it stabilizes.
5. Heat & Extreme Temperatures
Avoid for at least 48 hours:
Saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga
Hot baths
Direct sun exposure or tanning beds
Heat increases inflammation and makes swelling worse.
6. Skincare Acids & Active Ingredients
Avoid for 48 hours:
Retinol
AHAs/BHAs
Vitamin C serums with high acidity
Microneedling or chemical peels (for 1–2 weeks)
7. Sleeping Face-Down
Sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated using extra pillows. Side or face-down sleeping can shift the filler.
8. Facial Massages & Beauty Treatments
Avoid for 1–2 weeks:
Facial massage or gua sha
Microdermabrasion or radiofrequency treatments
Laser therapy
Microneedling or dermaplaning
Quick Reference Checklist
✅ = Allowed
✖ = Avoid
Final Thoughts
Small steps before and after filler treatment make a big difference in healing, bruising, swelling, and overall results. Following these guidelines helps ensure:
Safer treatment
Faster recovery
Better, longer-lasting filler results
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