1. What To Expect After Your Botulinum Toxin Treatment

• Normal immediate reactions include: mild redness, tiny bumps, minor swelling that subsides within minutes to hours

• You may experience pressure or minimal discomfort in the areas injected.
   

2. In the First 24 hours

• Keep your head upright for 6-8 hours to avoid toxin migration

• Avoid rubbing, massaging, or pressing treated areas

• Avoid activities that increase blood flow to the face such as strenuous exercise or sauna, spa, hot yoga or alcohol for 24 hours. 

• You can wash your face with a gentle cleanser.

• Avoid medicines that can thin the blood for 24 hours post-treatment such as  anti-inflammatory pain killers like aspirin or ibuprofen, omega fish oils, vitamin E, garlic oil or gingko.

• If you are using warfarin and other prescription anti-coagulant medication discuss use post-treatment with your treating doctor
   

3. Aftercare in the First Week

• Use gentle skincare only—no exfoliation or skin care products with strong actives such as retinol, niacinamide etc.

• Avoid any facials or face down massage for 1 week post treatment

• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet

• Mild over-the-counter pain relief if needed (e.g., paracetamol).
   

Don’t forget to attend your follow‑up appointment for touch‑ups and assessment.
 

4. What to Expect—Side Effects & When to Worry

• Normal side effects: slight bruising, minor swelling, tiny red bumps

• Less common side effects: headache, drooping eyelid (ptosis), or brow drop, asymmetry, muscle weakness of adjacent muscles.

• Red flag signs: severe pain, vision changes, spreading redness or swelling - contact your provider immediately or seek emergency care
   

5. Supporting Long-Term Results

• Maintenance treatments are important as lines become less deep over time and duration of treatment lasts longer. 

• Schedule re-treatments every 3–4 months

• Lifestyle tips: manage stress, eat a balanced diet, and ensure adequate sun protection when in the sun. 

• Combining anti-wrinkle treatment with a good skincare routine is important to not only improve the appearance but also the health of the skin. This includes regular hydration, retinoids and always good quality SPF to protect against UV exposure.
   

We hope you are delighted with the outcome of your treatment. If for any reason you are concerned or have any questions, please call the clinic 021 685 539.