One of the most common side effects of dermal fillers is bruising. Even if you have never bruised before, it is always a possibility. Why? Because bruises are just a small hematoma; they occur when small blood vessels get punctured and leak into the soft tissue beneath. The good news is there are some tips and tricks up our sleeve that you can use to help reduce the bruising pre- and post-treatment.
Pre-Appointment Tips
- There are medications that you may want to consider stopping 1 week prior to your appointment (and with your doctor’s consent.) These medications thin your blood, making it more difficult for it to clot, increasing the likelihood you will bruise following your procedure. This list includes:
- Aspirin
- Excedrin
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Aleve, Advil)
- St. John’s Wart
- Fish Oil
- Vitamin E
- Ginko Biloba
- Ginseng
- Fenugreek
- Garlic
- No alcohol or green teas 1-2 days before injections
- Eat fresh pineapple, it contains bromelain which has been know to decrease bruising
- Take Arnica tablets for a couple of days leading up to your appointment. Arnica is a homeopathic remedy to help prevent bruising/swelling.
Post-Appointment Tips
Congrats on your new fillers! Here are a few tips to avoid bruising after your procedure:
- Avoid alcohol for 1-2 days after injections
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 1-2 days
- Wait 24 hours before applying makeup
- Apply Arnica gel, it will help you heal faster
- Apply ice packs. The ice contracts the blood vessels and lessens the chance that your bruise will spread.
While these tips and tricks can help, we always recommend planning to get your fillers done 1-2 weeks before any big event or photoshoot. It is best to aim for 2 weeks if you are someone who bruises easily.
Have more questions about fillers? Book a free consult today with one of our experienced injectors who can talk you through a personalized treatment plan.
