Lip Filler Aftercare Tips to Protect Your New Pout, According to a Dermatologist

Tip: Avoid spicy food after your lip injections!

There are plenty of reasons why someone might want to get lip filler — it’s not just about having a pillowy pout! This anti-aging cosmetic treatment can counter the look of vertical lines, add symmetry to uneven lips, or restore a plumper, more youthful appearance if your lips have thinned with age.

While getting dermal fillers is usually a quick, simple, and nearly painless process, it’s a good idea to prepare yourself with knowledge about lip filler aftercare and the best skincare products for soothing any irritation you may experience.

We spoke with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jeannette Graf, who advises on the best lip filler aftercare tips. Once you’ve completely healed, all that’s left to do is decide which lipstick complements your new smile!

What’s the recovery period for lip fillers?

While the amount and type of lip filler will differ from person to person, Dr. Graf says that recovery from the procedure is typically quick and uncomplicated. You will likely experience some “minor bruising and swelling on and around the lip area for a couple of days post-injection.”

Dr. Graf advises that most people will see a significant reduction in initial bruising and swelling within 48 hours, but it may take a few weeks before all swelling is completely resolved. If you have any concerns about the amount of inflammation, check with your dermatologist to confirm the healing process is progressing as expected.

What should you avoid after having lip fillers?

For at least 48 hours post-injection, Dr. Graf recommends abstaining from consuming blood thinners like alcoholic beverages and ibuprofen, eating spicy foods that may irritate sensitive skin, and exercising “to avoid an increased risk of swelling or bruising.”

There are also more subtle activities to refrain from.

“I recommend avoiding drinking out of a straw, applying pressure to the lips, or smoking for up to 48 hours post-injection to avoid filler migration from occurring,” says Dr. Graf. This is when the filler shifts from the injection site and settles in the wrong place, which can interfere with long-term results.

Other things to avoid include rubbing your lips and lying down 3-4 hours after your appointment. Plan to go makeup-free for at least 24 hours after getting lip fillers to avoid any adverse effects. And finally, make sure to schedule your dental appointments before getting lip fillers, as you will have to wait several weeks to go to the dentist otherwise.

What are the best products for lip filler aftercare?

If your lips are irritated after being injected, try treating them with an over-the-counter remedy. Dr. Graf suggests using a “gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer like Aquaphor on the lips. Use a sterile applicator tool such as a clean Q-tip post-injection to avoid bacteria transfer.”

To minimize bruising before it starts, Dr. Graf recommends a homeopathic treatment: Starting a few days before your lip filler injection, she advises taking Arnica montana 12C. Arnica is an herbaceous plant extract used to treat pain and inflammation.

“You can also apply a product like the Alastin INhance Post-Injection Serum with TriHex Technology, which is designed to improve hydration post-filler injection and soothe skin or lips after treatment.” The formula claims to accelerate recovery and also contains Arnica montana, so you can double-dose the herbal remedy.

To further soothe irritation, a gentle cold compress can help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort — but just make sure to use very light pressure.