It can be intimidating to receive Juvéderm® /Restylane® or other dermal fillers for the first time. Here at I CARE BEAUTY CLINIC , we believe that educating our patients allows them to make the best decisions for their individual needs. We understand that, although it’s a small, nonsurgical and relatively painless procedure, receiving fillers can be intimidating for someone who’s never done it. Because of this, we’ve put together a little guide for what to expect before and after receiving a filler treatment.

In order to reduce the amount of bruising and swelling at the injection site, the following recommendations about how to prepare for fillers:

-Avoid blood thinning over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, and Aleve.
-Avoid supplements, including St. John’s Wort, Gingko biloba, primrose oil, garlic, ginseng, and Vitamin E.
-Avoid topical products such as Tretinoin (Retin-A), Retinol, Retinoids, Glycolic Acid, or any “anti-aging” products.
-Avoid waxing, bleaching, tweezing, or using hair removal cream on the area to be treated.
-Do start taking Arnica two days prior to the procedure. (This is not required, but it will help to lessen bruising.)
-Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior.

-If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another eruption of cold sores. Please let your physician assistant know if you are prone.
-Do not use dermal fillers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, are allergic to any ingredients, or suffer from neurological disorders. Please inform us if you have any questions about this prior to your treatment.

-Apply an ice pack and Arnica topically—Arnica + Bromelain tablets are both natural supplements to reduce bruising
-Avoid itching, massaging, or picking around the injection site. This is normal and generally disappears within a few hours to a few days. If these symptoms last more than 3 days, please contact our office.

-Until the swelling and redness have resolved, avoid intense heat in the treated area(s). This includes sunbathing, tanning, saunas, hot tubs, or hot wax.
-To help alleviate swelling, we recommend an antihistamine during the day, such as Zyrtec or Claritin, and Benadryl at night.
-If there is a visible bump, you can massage the area. Depending on the areas treated and the product used, you may feel “firmness.” These areas will soften and settle with time (usually 1-2 weeks)

-Avoid drinking alcohol or partaking in strenuous exercise, as it may result in additional bruising.
-To help alleviate bruising, we recommend taking Arnica or Bromelain, eating fresh pineapple, and applying ice to the area.