As a board-certified dermatologist and BOTOX specialist in Washington, DC, I know just how beneficial exercise is when it comes to anti-aging. If you’re someone who enjoys working out as a way to look and feel younger, you may be curious how integrating cosmetic treatments like BOTOX will affect that part of your routine.
Fortunately, BOTOX is a minimal-downtime treatment, meaning your workout schedule won’t have to change much. However, there are a few facts about post-BOTOX exercise that you should know before your next appointment.
DO: Wait 24 hours before strenuous exercise.
Vigorous exercise increases blood flow throughout your body. That’s why your face may look red and flushed when you give it your all on the treadmill. While blood flow is excellent for skin and your overall health, increased blood flow immediately after BOTOX may contribute to the product’s migration to surrounding areas. This potential migration puts you at increased risk for untoward side effects such as drooping eyebrows and eyelids.
Waiting at least 4 hours for moderate exercise gives the BOTOX time to settle into place so it doesn’t move anywhere it shouldn’t. If you perform hot yoga or engage in strenuous exercise defined as a heart rate over 130, it is recommended that you wait 24 hours after your treatment. Once those 24 hours are up, you are free to jump back into whichever workouts you please.
DON’T: Engage in activities that involve bending down or putting pressure on your head.
While you shouldn’t be hitting the gym immediately after your BOTOX treatment, you definitely shouldn’t be swimming laps with goggles on, performing any inversions such as head stands, Downward Dogs, or doing any activities that involve tight-fitting headwear.
Pressure on your treated area can move your BOTOX around and increase your chances of bruising. You’ll want to skip your post-workout nap, too: It’s best to avoid lying down for a few hours after your appointment.
DO: Try some facial exercises.
Studies have shown mixed results about whether doing facial exercises makes BOTOX work faster. There is some evidence that suggests it may help your results appear up to a day sooner. A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found 68% of participants believed the facial exercises they performed sped the onset of their BOTOX results.
You certainly don’t need to go overboard with these exercises. However, if you’re dying to get in some reps, the only thing you should be lifting is your eyebrows.
DON’T: Let it throw off the rest of your routine.
One of BOTOX’s many benefits is that it only takes a few minutes and doesn’t involve major downtime. While you may not be able to run a marathon the day of your appointment, you certainly can return to exercising, work, school, and other daily activities.
Gently cover any redness with makeup and you’ll be on your way back from your lunch break without anyone suspecting a thing. The next day, your routine will fully return to normal.
To see examples of the results you can expect once your BOTOX has settled and taken effect, please visit my before-and-after photo gallery.
If you would like to learn more about the best BOTOX tips from a Washington, DC BOTOX expert and board-certified dermatologist, please request a consultation online or call (202) 393-7546 to schedule your consultation today.
Updated May 2023.
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