How to Prepare for Your Wrinkle Relaxer or Filler Treatment: The Complete Pre-Appointment Guide

Quick Answer: To prepare for Botox or filler, avoid alcohol, blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil), and retinol for 24–48 hours before your appointment. Arrive with clean skin and no makeup. At Luxe Beauty in Amarillo, TX, your provider will review your full pre-treatment checklist at consultation.

You booked your Botox or filler appointment — now what? How you prepare in the days leading up to your treatment can make a real difference in your results and how quickly you heal. Bruising, swelling, and uneven results are often avoidable with the right prep. Here's exactly what to do (and what to skip) before your visit to Luxe Beauty Med Spa in Amarillo.

1. Stop Blood-Thinning Medications and Supplements

Bruising is the most common side effect of injectable treatments — and the biggest factor you can control beforehand is avoiding anything that thins your blood. Starting 7–10 days before your appointment, stop taking:

• NSAIDs: aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve)

• Supplements: fish oil, vitamin E, turmeric, ginkgo biloba, St. John's Wort

• Some herbal teas in high doses (chamomile, ginger)

If you're on a prescribed blood thinner (like Eliquis, Warfarin, or Xarelto) for a medical condition, do NOT stop it without consulting your prescribing doctor. Let Amber know at your appointment and she'll factor it into your treatment plan.

2. Avoid Alcohol for 24–48 Hours Before

Alcohol is a vasodilator — it widens blood vessels and thins your blood, which significantly increases the likelihood of bruising and swelling at injection sites. Skip drinks for at least 24–48 hours before your appointment. The less alcohol in your system, the cleaner your results and the faster your recovery.

3. If You're Prone to Cold Sores, Plan Ahead

Needle punctures can trigger a cold sore outbreak in people who carry the herpes simplex virus, even if they haven't had a breakout in years. If you have a history of cold sores, start an antiviral medication 3 days before your appointment (prescription or OTC — ask your provider). Make sure to mention this to Amber at check-in.

4. Arrive with a Clean Face

On the day of your appointment, come in with no makeup, skincare, or sunscreen on the areas being treated. Clean skin reduces infection risk and helps your provider see your natural facial anatomy clearly for precise placement. You're welcome to bring makeup to apply afterward if needed.

5. Eat Before Your Appointment

Don't come in on an empty stomach. Eating a balanced meal beforehand helps stabilize your blood sugar, which can reduce lightheadedness during or after injections. Some patients feel a little woozy if they haven't eaten — a quick snack is all it takes to prevent that.

6. Skip the Gym That Day

Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours before and after your treatment. Elevated heart rate and blood flow increase the chance of bruising and can cause injectables to migrate before they've had time to settle. Save the workout for the next day.

7. Know What to Expect on the Day

Here's a quick overview of what your appointment will look like at Luxe Beauty:

• Your provider will review your goals and facial anatomy

• Treatment areas may be marked with a white pencil for precision

• Injections are quick — most appointments take 15–30 minutes total

• You may have minor redness, pinpoint swelling, or small bumps immediately after — this is normal and fades within hours

Botox & Filler Aftercare: What to Avoid

Prep doesn't stop when you leave. For the best results, follow these aftercare guidelines:

• Don't touch, rub, or press on treated areas for at least 4 hours

• Avoid lying flat or bending over for 4 hours after Botox

• Skip intense exercise, saunas, and hot tubs for 24–48 hours

• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours post-treatment

• No facials, chemical peels, or laser treatments for 2 weeks

• Stay out of direct sun and wear SPF — your skin is more vulnerable after injections

Important: Who Should NOT Get Botox or Fillers

Botox and dermal fillers are not appropriate for everyone. Please let your provider know if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have a known allergy to botulinum toxin or hyaluronic acid

• Have a neuromuscular condition such as ALS, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome

• Have an active skin infection or inflammation in the treatment area

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Botox results last?

Most patients enjoy results for 3–4 months. Consistent treatments over time can extend your results as the targeted muscles weaken gradually.

How long do fillers last?

It depends on the product and area treated. Lip fillers typically last 12–18 months. Cheek and under-eye fillers can last 12–24 months. Your provider will give you a realistic timeline at your consultation.

What if I bruise easily?

Following the prep steps above — especially stopping blood thinners and alcohol — gives you the best shot at a bruise-free treatment. Arnica gel or supplements can also help reduce bruising after injections. Ask Amber about this at your appointment.

Ready to Book?

A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth, comfortable experience and beautiful results. Book your Botox or filler appointment online at Luxe Beauty Amarillo — and if you have questions beforehand, don't hesitate to reach out.