Injectable treatments don’t have to be bruising

If you’re investing in dermal fillers like Juvéderm, Radiesse or Restylane to plump your skin or Botox and Dysport to relax your lines and furrows, you will want to look your best as soon as possible, which means avoiding the bruising that can be a normal side effect of these treatments. Bruising occurs when injectable treatments injure your capillaries, causing them to leak blood into the surrounding areas.

There are common over-the-counter (OTC) medications and supplements that increase chances of bruising. Ten days before your injectable appointment, avoid aspirin, Advil, and ibuprofen. These pain relievers can thin the blood. If you have a headache, take paracetamol.

Supplements can also increase bruising. Do not take gingko biloba, ginseng, omega-3, St. John’s Wort and vitamin E before your treatment. Green tea also increases the chance of bruising, so switch to another beverage 10 days before your treatment. And, 24 hours before treatment, do not drink any alcohol at all.
Some supplements help to prevent bruising, such as arnica and bromelain. Take one arnica table the morning of your appointment and every six hours after your injections until you’re free of bruises. Bromelain, which is pineapple-based, also helps; take 500 mg three times a day for three days after you are injected.