New to Dermal Fillers? Follow These Steps to Prevent Bruising Before Your First Treatment
May 16, 2024
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If you're considering dermal fillers for the first time, you may have concerns about potential bruising. While it can occur, you can take steps to minimize the likelihood and severity of bruising.
Here's a helpful guide to consider before your first dermal filler treatment, courtesy of our experts here at RefineU Med Spa in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Follow these steps to prevent bruising before you arrive for treatment:
During your dermal filler consultation, we ask about your current medications and supplements. Some of these can increase the risk of bruising by affecting your blood clotting.
To reduce your risk of bruising, avoid these supplements in the days leading to your dermal filler appointment:
Not sure if your supplements or medications might impact you? The list above isn’t comprehensive, so bring a list of what you take to your consultation.
Some medications — including aspirin, ibuprofen, and some prescription meds — may naturally thin your blood. Don’t stop or alter your prescription medication unless directed to do so.
It’s no secret that drinking enough water each day is good for you, but it can also help your skin bounce back after dermal fillers. Staying hydrated can:
Women need about 11.5 cups of fluids per day, and men need about 15.5 cups. Not all of this intake has to be water. Some of your fluids can come from juice, milk, and herbal teas — just make sure your herbal tea doesn’t contribute to bruising.
Alcohol can also thin your blood and make bruising more likely. It's best to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment.
Try to schedule your dermal filler appointment so you can avoid strenuous activities afterward. Vigorous activity that increases blood flow to your face can raise the risk of bruising.
Follow these steps to prevent bruising after you complete your treatment:
Arnica is a natural remedy known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce bruising and swelling. It’s often used in post-operative protocols for cosmetic surgeries to reduce bruising. Other research shows Arnica also helps with discoloration, pain, and swelling.
Consider applying Arnica gel or cream to the treatment area before and after your appointment. You can find Arnica gel in most drugstores. It’s also available as a homeopathic preparation (pellets) taken orally.
Apply a cold compress to the treatment area immediately after your dermal filler injection to help constrict blood vessels and reduce the risk of bruising. Use a clean cloth or ice pack wrapped in a towel for a few minutes at a time.
Be careful not to press too hard on the treatment area.
After your dermal filler treatment, follow any post-treatment instructions provided by your RefineU Med Spa injector. These may include avoiding certain activities (such as hot yoga or intense exercise) or products.
You may also find that sleeping with your head elevated for a few days helps reduce bruising and swelling.
Even if you follow these steps carefully, you still might notice injection-site redness or bruising.
It’s a common side effect of dermal filler injections, but it typically resolves within a few days.
Be patient with yourself and allow your body time to heal; resist the urge to touch or massage the treatment area. Before you know it, you’ll be basking in your fresh new look.
These bruise-prevention tips also apply to neurotoxin injections like Botox®. People often combine dermal fillers and neurotoxins, so it’s nice to know that the same steps pay off for both types of injectables.
To book your appointment, call our office at 405-369-8840 today.