Why lip filler aftercare is important?
Want lips that make a statement? Full, plump lips have become a hot trend, and it’s easy to see why. But getting lip fillers is just the first step. To make sure your results look amazing and last, there’s a few things you need to do after the procedure. In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to take care of your lips so they heal quickly and look their best
Lip fillers, also known as lip injections, make your lips look plump, soft and simply irresistible. Oftentimes, people go for anti-wrinkle treatment to achieve a similar effect – called a lip flip – but that is not regarded as a lip filler.
The journey to plumper lips is a minimally invasive procedure. The procedure is semi-permanent and you’ll need maintenance (possibly every 12-18 months) to make your pout look plump at all times.
It’s fairly common to have minor swelling and tenderness for a few days after the procedure. However, you must follow a proper lip filler aftercare regimen to ensure everything heals quickly and you can show off your new lips.
What Problems do Lip Fillers Solve?
Lip filler will achieve the ideal shape of the lips without undergoing the knife, when the lip injection happens, it enhances the lips appearance in terms of, shape, structure, and volume.
The results might differ from one woman to another as the face dimensions is one of the main criteria when lip filler job is in process. We always aim to have a natural look for the lips. The results might last for 12 to 18 months, it also depends on your lifestyle and if you followed the after tips
Before and After Lip Filler:
CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR INCREDIBLE BEFORE AND AFTERS
Lip Filler Aftercare Tips
Taking care of yourself after any cosmetic procedure, whether it’s big or small, is really important. It can help you heal faster and avoid any unwanted side effects. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
Don’t Panic About the Swelling
It’s totally normal for your lips to look a bit puffy and swollen right after the procedure. You might also notice some redness or bruising. Don’t worry, these things will go away in a few days
Massage your lips with Ice
Apply a peace of ice to the lips after injection will help to minimize the discomfort and swelling, repeat this procedure many times during the day, Make sure you are not applying ice directly on your lips.
Don’t exercise
Take a break for 24 to 48 hours from any workout after lip filler injection, exercise can elevate your blood pressure which can worsen the swelling and bruising. It’s better to take some time off exercising and let your lips heal properly.
Drink lots of water
Drinking plenty of water is great for your overall health, and it can also help your lips heal faster after a filler procedure.
Eat Healthy and Limit Salt
Fill your plate with fruits and vegetables, and try to cut down on salt for a few days. Salt can make swelling worse.
Avoid Heat and Sun
Heat can cause swelling. So, stay away from hot places like saunas and gyms, and avoid direct sunlight for a 3 days.
Ask Your Doctor About Pain Killers
If you need pain medication, talk to your doctor first. Some over-the-counter pain relievers might not be the best choice after lip fillers.
Plan Ahead for Events
If you’re getting lip fillers for a special occasion, it’s a good idea to schedule the procedure a few weeks in advance. This will give your lips enough time to heal.
Sleep on your back
For the first day or two, try to sleep on your back with your head propped up. This can help reduce swelling.
Wait before applying makeup
Don’t put on lipstick or any other makeup around your lips for at least a day or two.
Things to Avoid after a lip filler injection
If you follow all the points mentioned above, you will be good to go. It’s also important to avoid the following to achieve optimal results.
Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of infection. also smokers might use different type of fillers, checkout here for more information about best filler types for smokers
Alcohol: Alcohol can cause swelling and bruising.
Flying: Flying can make swelling and bruising worse. So, try to avoid it for a week after the procedure.
Why Can’t You Smoke After Lip Filler?
Smoking after lip filler is discouraged because nicotine restricts blood flow and slows healing. The suction and repeated lip movement can also increase swelling, bruising, and filler migration. Smoking raises the risk of uneven results and infection, especially during the first 48 hours when the filler is still settling.
When Can You Work Out After Lip Fillers?
You should wait 24–48 hours before working out after lip fillers. Exercise increases blood pressure and circulation, which can worsen swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Intense workouts too soon may also cause filler displacement. Light walking is acceptable, but strenuous gym sessions should be postponed until swelling subsides.
What Can You Not Do After Lip Filler?
After lip filler, avoid smoking, alcohol, intense exercise, excessive heat (saunas, steam rooms), kissing, and touching or massaging the lips for at least 24–48 hours. These activities can increase swelling, bruising, or cause filler to shift. Following aftercare instructions helps ensure smooth healing and natural-looking results.
When Can I Work Out After Lip Filler?
Most patients can safely return to workouts after 48 hours. If swelling or tenderness persists, it’s best to wait longer. High-impact or cardio exercises too early can prolong inflammation and bruising. Always resume exercise gradually and stop if discomfort increases.
Can You Go Swimming After Lip Filler?
Swimming should be avoided for at least 48 hours after lip filler. Pools, hot tubs, and seawater contain bacteria that can increase infection risk while injection sites are healing. Chlorine and salt can also irritate the lips. Wait until redness and swelling have fully resolved before swimming.
Best Lip Injections Before and After Results
The best lip injection results show subtle enhancement, improved symmetry, and natural volume rather than overfilling. Before-and-after outcomes depend on filler type, injection technique, and facial proportions. Swelling is normal initially, with final results appearing within 1–2 weeks once the filler fully settles.
Can You Work Out After Lip Injections?
Working out immediately after lip injections is not recommended. Exercise increases blood flow, which may worsen swelling and bruising. Most specialists advise waiting 24–48 hours before resuming gym activity. This allows the filler to stabilize and reduces the risk of uneven or prolonged recovery.
Can I Go to the Gym After Lip Filler?
You should avoid the gym for at least 24 hours after lip filler, and ideally 48 hours for intense workouts. Weightlifting, cardio, and classes raise blood pressure and body heat, which can intensify swelling. Gentle movement is fine, but full gym sessions should wait until healing begins.
Lip Filler Aftercare: Do’s and Don’ts
Do keep lips clean, hydrated, and follow your provider’s instructions. Don’t smoke, drink alcohol, exercise heavily, or apply pressure to the lips for 24–48 hours. Avoid heat exposure and touching injection sites. Proper aftercare reduces complications and ensures smoother, longer-lasting results.
Can You Put Lipstick On After Filler?
Lipstick should be avoided for the first 24 hours after lip filler. Makeup can introduce bacteria into injection sites and increase infection risk. Once swelling and redness decrease, lipstick can be applied gently. Always ensure brushes and products are clean before use.
Can I Put Makeup On After Lip Filler?
You can usually apply makeup after 24 hours, once injection sites have closed. Applying makeup too early may irritate the skin or introduce bacteria. Avoid heavy pressure when applying products, and stop if discomfort or swelling increases.
Can I Take Benadryl After Lip Filler?
Yes, Benadryl can be taken after lip filler if recommended by your provider, especially for mild swelling or allergic reactions. However, it should not replace medical advice. If swelling is severe, painful, or worsening, contact your injector immediately for proper evaluation.
Why Can’t You Drink Alcohol After Lip Filler?
Alcohol should be avoided for 24–48 hours after lip filler because it thins the blood and increases swelling and bruising. Drinking alcohol can also slow healing and make post-treatment inflammation more noticeable. Avoiding alcohol helps achieve faster recovery and better final results.
Dr. Rehab Zakaria
Clinic & beauty consultant
Consultant in Dermatology, Cosmetic, and Laser
Master’s and Doctorate in Dermatology and Laser Diseases
Certified Trainer
Master Injector