7 Things to Avoid After Getting Neurotoxin Injections

Dermatologists share critical post-treatment dos and don'ts to ensure the best results.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Neurotoxin injections like Botox require careful aftercare to achieve optimal results. Dermatologists warn patients to avoid activities that could cause the product to migrate or diffuse, such as rubbing the face, strenuous exercise, heat exposure, and excessive alcohol consumption. They also advise waiting at least 24 hours before resuming normal activities and scheduling any additional treatments. Patience is key, as the full effects can take 10-14 days to appear.

Why it matters

Neurotoxin injections are a popular cosmetic treatment, but improper aftercare can lead to uneven results, reduced effectiveness, increased bruising, or unwanted side effects like drooping. Following dermatologists' guidance helps ensure patients get the best possible outcome from their investment.

The details

In the first 24 hours after neurotoxin injections, dermatologists urge patients to avoid anything that puts pressure or causes swelling on the face, including facial massages, at-home tools like jade rollers, and suction-based devices. Excessive manipulation can increase the risk of the product diffusing into unintended muscles. Patients should also refrain from lying flat, bending over, or engaging in strenuous exercise, as these activities can promote early diffusion of the neurotoxin before it has fully localized. Heat exposure, such as saunas and hot yoga, and excessive alcohol consumption should also be avoided, as they can increase circulation and swelling. While it may be tempting, patients should not seek out additional injections if they don't see immediate results, as over-treating too early can lead to an unnatural appearance.

  • For 24 hours after treatment, patients should avoid pressure, swelling, and lying flat.
  • For 7-10 days after treatment, patients should avoid facials, facial massage, and lymphatic treatments.
  • For 2 weeks after treatment, patients should avoid laser and microneedling procedures.

The players

Marina Peredo, MD

A dermatologist in New York who specializes in neurotoxin injections.

Sue Ellen Cox, MD

A dermatologist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina who treats patients with neurotoxins.

Deborah Longwill, MD

A dermatologist in Miami who provides neurotoxin injections to her patients.

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What they’re saying

“The most important rule is to avoid anything that puts pressure or causes swelling on the face for a period of time after injections.”

— Sue Ellen Cox, MD, Dermatologist (newbeauty.com)

“Neurotoxins require time to bind to targeted neuromuscular junctions. Excess manipulation can increase the risk of unintended diffusion into adjacent muscles.”

— Marina Peredo, MD, Dermatologist (newbeauty.com)

“Heat increases circulation and may contribute to swelling or diffusion in the early phase.”

— Marina Peredo, MD, Dermatologist (newbeauty.com)

The takeaway

Proper aftercare is crucial to getting the best results from neurotoxin injections. By following dermatologists' guidance and avoiding activities that could interfere with the product's localization, patients can help ensure their investment in cosmetic treatments pays off with a smooth, balanced, and natural-looking outcome.