Botox is a popular cosmetic treatment due to its easy and efficient procedure, but post-injection maintenance is essential for optimal outcomes. Exercising too soon can affect the way Botox settles in, which can result in uneven results. So as a rough guide, how long should you actually wait before breaking a sweat?
Key Takeaways
- Wait at least 24 hours before exercising to avoid any side effects.
- Light activities, such as walking, are safe.
- Examples of complications include drooping eyelids or unevenness when you smile.
- After the treatment, be sure to follow the waiting period and appropriate aftercare to ensure the best possible results.
Can you exercise after Botox?
It is advised to not do any exercise within 24 hours post Botox. Strenuous exercise and too much facial pressure increases blood flow to the area, which could allow the Botox to migrate from its designated spot, reducing its effectiveness and resulting in unintended outcomes. For high-intensity workouts, experts recommend waiting 48 hours for good measure.
What happens if you exercise after Botox?
Exercising too soon after Botox injection could diminish the neurotoxin’s effectiveness. Excessive movement may increase blood pressure that may lengthen the healing process on the treatment area. Also, sweat can lead to irritation and swelling at the injection sites.
How long after having Botox can you exercise again?
Our Harley Street Skin Clinic experts advise to avoid strenuous workouts for 24 to 48 hours after having Botox cosmetic treatment. This means that the Botulinum toxin more completely settles into targeted muscles, minimising the potential for migration. After this time, you can slowly get back to exercising starting with moderate exercise and gradually returning to vigorous exercise.
What types of exercise are (and aren’t) safe after Botox?
Mild facial exercises like smiling, frowning and raising your eyebrows are allowed in order for the Botox to work faster, but not to add facial strain. Some exercises are more likely to affect Botox results than others. Here’s what you should know:
Safe exercises after Botox:
- Light walking at a moderate pace
- Soft stretching or yoga (minus the inverted poses)
- Mild household tasks such as cleaning or cooking
Exercises to avoid:
- Activities with high-impact, such as running or HIIT workouts
- Resistance training and weight lifting
- Heavy cardio and hot yoga
- Any exercise or sports that involve bending or head turning
Ways to stay active without risking your results
If you’re itching to move but want to avoid the potential complications of Botox, here are some safe substitutes:
- Brisk walking or a nice walk around your neighborhood
- Stretches while seated, which are desk-friendly
- Gentle movements such as taichi or slow-paced yoga
What to do if you’ve exercised too soon after Botox
If you accidentally worked out too early post-Botox, don’t freak out. Although there’s no surefire way to undo potential migration, you can reduce the risk of it by not adding more physical strain, and by keeping your head upright over the next few hours.
Signs of complication to look out for
- Drooping eyelids or eyebrows
- Uneven facial expressions
- Excessive swelling or redness
- Headache or dizziness
When to seek professional advice
Side effects are uncommon, but if you do notice unusual symptoms or in the treated area that last more than a few days, call your practitioner straight away for advice.
General Botox aftercare tips
Here are Botox aftercare instructions for best results. Here are some key tips:
- Do not touch, rub or massage the treated area for at least 24 hours.
- Maintain an upright position for 4 hours after the injection to avoid migration.
- Do not take alcohol and blood-thinning medications for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid saunas, steam rooms and hot baths for a minimum of 48 hours.
For a more in-depth guide, explore our related articles:
- Botox aftercare: What you should know after getting Botox?
- How long after Botox can you lay down?
- Can you fly after Botox injections?
- Can you wear makeup after Botox?
- Can you drink alcohol after Botox?
What else shouldn’t you do after Botox?
In addition to not exercising too early, sun exposure, facials and heavy makeup for the first 24 to 48 hours after Botox affect the result so be sure to avoid these to minimise irritation and swelling.
High-quality Botox treatments at the Harley Street Skin Clinic
We offer the best Botox injections at Harley Street Skin Clinic to fit your needs. Sculpting safe, natural-looking results using the latest techniques by our highly experienced practitioners.
Request a consultation today!
FAQs
- I went running after Botox, what should I do?
If you went running too soon after Botox, don’t engage in any further strenuous activity, and maintain an upright head position in the hours following the treatment. Contact your practitioner for advice as soon as you notice any unusual effects.
- What happens if I sweat after Botox?
Sweating itself won’t have any direct impact on Botox, but lots of movement and wiping sweat off your face can spread the neurotoxin unevenly. Avoid heavy sweating for at least 24 hours after treatment.
- Does exercise make Botox wear off faster?
Yes. Intense workouts can boost metabolism that may cause Botox to dissolve more quickly. If you work out regularly, you might need to have a touch-up more often to keep your results.
- How do I know if Botox has migrated?
Signs of Botox migration are drooping eyelids, uneven facial expressions and changes in muscle function beyond the treated area. If you suspect migration, seek the advice of your practitioner for further assessment and possible remedial treatment.
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