If you have been thinking of getting Botox, Dysport, Restylane or Juvederm to relax facial lines and furrows, you’ve probably done your research and figured out that bruising following treatment is a normal side effect of injectables. In fact, bruising after injectables is one of the concerns by most of our patients here at our Los Angeles nonsurgical cosmetic practice.

Bruising occurs when neighboring capillaries are injured, resulting to blood leakage into the surrounding areas. Even the best injectors cannot avoid such side effect from happening to their patients. The good news is you can actually take certain measures before the injection that can keep bruising to a minimum. 

What to Avoid Days Before the Treatment

You may have to avoid certain medications and supplements that could increase your chances of bleeding as they can make your blood less likely to clot (blood thinners).  It is best to avoid such medications for at least 10 days before your scheduled injection — aspirin, excedrin, ibuprofen, St. John’s Wort, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin E supplements, ginseng, and ginkgo biloba. For pain relief, consider taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead.

As to prescription medications, you may want to avoid heparin, coumadin, and persantine. You might want to talk to your doctor about other alternatives.

If you’re a regular green tea drinker, consider finding a replacement ten days before your injection. Anything with garlic should also be avoided 2 to 3 days prior to getting an injectable. The same goes for alcoholic drinks.

Supplements That May Prove Helpful

There have been several supplements that are proven to help reduce bruising: arnica and bromelain. You might want take them days before the procedure. Bromelain is abundant in pineapples; consider having an extra helping of the fruit prior to your scheduled injection. 

Post-Treatment Measures to Avoid Noticeable Bruising

  • Avoid squeezing or massaging the area treated except for Sculptra injections.
  • Flexible, soft, and cold compresses will come in handy 24 hours after treatment to help relieve bruising.
  • Elevate your head when you sleep following injections.
  • Consider using camouflage makeup if you have to go out days after your injectable.

Injectables at Los Feliz MedSpa

Here at our practice, we take measures to help you avoid bruising as much as possible after getting an injectable. Get in touch with us today by calling 323-664-0186 or by filling out this contact form. We look forward to your visit!