Post anti-wrinkle injections: what to expect & how to maintain results
A clear, evidence-informed guide to the first 24 hours, the following days, and how to keep outcomes looking natural. (This page is for general guidance only and not a substitute for individual medical advice.)
Quick facts
- Onset: earliest changes ~3–5 days; full effect ~10–14 days.
- Downtime: minimal; tiny marks or mild redness usually settle within hours.
- Review: if provided, typically around 2 weeks to assess balance when the effect has stabilised.
Practical tips today
- Keep the area clean and avoid rubbing or massaging injected sites.
- Stay upright for 4 hours; avoid lying flat immediately after.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, hot yoga, or steam rooms for the rest of the day.
Do
- Use a gentle cleanser and moisturiser the first night.
- Sleep on your back if possible; keep pillows fresh/clean.
- Apply SPF 30+ daily; sun protection helps longevity and skin quality.
- Report anything unexpected (see below) promptly.
Don’t
- Don’t press, rub or massage treated areas for 24 hours.
- Don’t have facials, micro-needling, peels or eyebrow waxing for 24–48 hours.
- Don’t drink excess alcohol immediately after treatment.
- Avoid very hot showers/saunas the same day.
What to expect — a simple timeline
What’s normal
- Tiny bumps or redness at injection points for a few hours.
- Occasional mild headache or tenderness the first day.
- Slight asymmetry while effects are developing.
Contact us if you notice
- Significant swelling, persistent bruising, or unusual pain.
- Signs of infection (worsening redness, heat, discharge, fever).
- Any eyelid heaviness or visual symptoms — seek advice promptly.
Maintaining natural-looking results
Cadence
Typical maintenance is every 3–4 months, but varies by area, dose and individual factors. We prioritise balance and subtlety — not over-treating.
Skincare
- Daily: gentle cleanser, barrier-supporting moisturiser, SPF 30+.
- Evenings: consider retinoid (if your skin tolerates) on non-treatment days.
- Targets: vitamin C or niacinamide for tone; peptides/EGF for support.
Frequently asked questions
Can I exercise after treatment?
We advise skipping strenuous exercise for the rest of the day. Light walking is fine. Resume your normal routine the following day unless advised otherwise.
When can I wear makeup?
Once any tiny injection points have closed (often within hours). Apply gently and keep brushes/sponges clean.
What if one side looks different?
Mild asymmetry can occur while effects are developing. A planned review around two weeks allows us to assess balance when the treatment has settled.
How long do results last?
It varies by area, dose and individual metabolism. Many people notice softening for 3–4 months, sometimes longer or shorter. Your clinician will guide an appropriate cadence.