TIPS ON HOW TO PREVENT BRUISING
A question that we get daily! Yes, with any injection or break of the skin there is always a chance of bruising because the face is full of arteries and veins. There are many ways to minimize the chances.
· Prior to and just after your injections, avoid medications and supplements that thin your blood. This includes ibuprofen, St. John’s wort, flaxseed oils, fish oils, vitamin E, and Omega-3 supplements.
· Avoid consuming alcohol the night before and after your treatment. Alcohol causes blood vessels to temporarily relax and expand. This increases blood flow throughout your body and the possibility of bleeding or bruising in the treatment areas.
· Take an Arnica tablet before your appointment, and every six hours after your injections, for the next several days. Arnica, a natural, over-the-counter supplement. It’s also available in a topical ointment and cream form. The pineapple-based enzyme Bromelain also helps. Start 3 days before and continue for 7 days afterward.
· Avoid touching the injection sites for at least the first six hours post-treatment. Applying too much pressure increases the likelihood of bruising.
· Apply ice to the treatment areas both before and after your injections. Cold constricts blood vessels and will prevent or reduce bruising.
· Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after treatment. Exercise increases your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow, which in turn can slow the healing of damaged capillaries.
· Sleep with an extra pillow to keep your head elevated at night. This prevents blood from pooling and minimizes bruising.