Botox Aftercare: What to Do (and Avoid) in the First 24 Hours

After anti-wrinkle injections, the main aftercare advice for the first 24 hours is: stay upright, avoid touching or massaging the treated area, and skip strenuous exercise, alcohol, and hot environments like saunas or hot baths.

Do

• Keep your head upright for a few hours after treatment
• Gently move the treated muscles (e.g. frowning, raising eyebrows) in the hours afterward — this is commonly advised to help even distribution
• Apply a cold compress if you notice any swelling

Avoid for 24 hours

• Touching, rubbing, or massaging the treated area
• Strenuous exercise
• Alcohol
• Saunas, steam rooms, sunbeds, or hot baths
• Lying down flat for several hours immediately after treatment

What's normal

Mild redness or small bumps at injection sites usually settle within a few hours. Occasional light bruising can happen and typically fades within a few days.

When to get in touch

If you notice anything you're unsure about — unusual swelling, drooping, or anything that doesn't feel right — contact the clinic directly rather than waiting it out. If you're not sure what to expect this time around, see our guide to your first appointment for the full walkthrough.