Lip fillers have surged in popularity so much that they are no longer considered a serious aesthetic correction but rather a “lunchtime procedure” that everyone does at least occasionally.

In 2024, advances in filler materials and injection techniques have made it possible to achieve incredibly natural-looking results. The appeal of plumper lips and the quick and minimally invasive nature of the procedure make it the most popular.
However, the perfect lips don’t end at the clinic. The success of lip filler treatments hinges significantly on the aftercare regime.

Without diligent aftercare, even the best-administered treatments can fall short of expectations. That’s why we made lip filler aftercare guide—to help both clients considering lip fillers and beauty professionals who aim to provide top-tier aftercare advice to clients. Let’s dive deep in this topic!

What Are Lip Fillers and Why Lip Filler Aftercare is Crucial?

If you are a seasoned client or a professional, you can skip this section, but first-timers should definitely learn more before deciding to do it.

Lip fillers are injectable substances used to enhance the lips’ volume, shape, and structure. They are typically made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that has the unique ability to attract and retain moisture. This quality makes HA an ideal component for lip and dermal fillers.

Most famous brands like Juvederm and Restylane use HA-based formulations, which are favored for their safety, reversibility, and ability to produce natural-looking results.

These are the basics that everyone must know, and let’s briefly talk about why proper lip filler aftercare is essential:

• Optimal Results: Following aftercare instructions meticulously helps achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. It ensures that the fillers settle properly and symmetrically.
• Minimized Complications: Adequate care reduces the risk of infections, bruising, and swelling.
• Prolonged Effects: Good lip filler aftercare practices can extend the longevity of the fillers. Proper hydration, avoiding certain activities, and using recommended skincare products all contribute to maintaining the fillers’ effect over a longer period, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.

This knowledge gives you the chance to make informed decisions and better explain to your doctor what you want.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

You must be diligent in the first 24 hours following your lip filler procedure.

First, it is crucial to avoid touching the treated area. Don’t touch, massage, or apply pressure to your lips, as this can lead to filler displacement and potentially uneven results. Also, keeping your hands away from your lips minimizes the risk of bacteria, which can cause infections.

Staying hydrated is another key factor in the healing process. Drinking plenty of water helps your body heal and maintains hydration in the treated area.

Swelling and bruising are normal reactions following lip filler injections, but they can be effectively managed. Applying cold compresses can significantly reduce swelling and bruising. Use a clean cloth or ice pack wrapped in a clean, soft towel and apply it to your lips in 10-15 minute intervals.

You can elevate your head while sleeping to reduce swelling, too.

Refrain from consuming alcohol, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and blood thinners. Instead, opt for medications and natural remedies that do not have blood-thinning properties.

If you experience discomfort after your lip filler procedure, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can be used. However, avoid ibuprofen and aspirin, which are NSAIDs. Natural remedies are a much better option.

Another thing to avoid is strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours post-procedure. Intense physical activities increase blood flow to the face, leading to more swelling and bruising. Light activities like walking are generally safe, but anything that causes significant physical exertion should be postponed.

You don’t have to take a day off, but take it easy overall for a day or two. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Short-Term Aftercare (First Week)

The first 24h hours are after you, but don’t let your attention for your lips decline.

Cleaning this area is of utmost importance. When cleaning the area around your lips, use a gentle approach:

• Gentle Cleansing: To clean the skin around your lips, opt for a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Apply the cleanser with your fingertips or a soft cloth, being careful not to apply direct pressure to the treated area.
• Avoid Exfoliants: Exfoliating products and harsh chemicals (scrubs, peels, and strong acids) are strictly prohibited during this period. These can irritate the sensitive post-procedure skin and potentially cause inflammation or infection.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t skincare products you should be using. Right skincare products can significantly impact the healing process:

• Use: Products containing hyaluronic acid are excellent for maintaining moisture in the treated area. Glycerin and aloe vera are also beneficial.
• Avoid: Avoid skincare products that contain retinoids, glycolic acid, and alcohol-based formulations. These ingredients can be too harsh.

Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments

Certain dietary choices can exacerbate swelling and bruising, so wait 7 to 10 days before eating:

• Spicy Foods: These can increase swelling and cause additional discomfort due to their inflammatory properties. Opt for mild foods that do not irritate the lips.
• Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of bruising.
• Smoking: Smoking can impede healing by reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of infection.

Monitoring for Complications

Yes, lip fillers are safe, and the whole process is straightforward in 99% of cases, but we must be vigilant for that 1%.

• Normal Healing: It is typical to experience mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the treated area. These symptoms should gradually subside over a few days to a week. Slight firmness or lumps under the skin can also be part of the normal healing process.
• Signs of Complications: On the other hand, severe pain, excessive swelling, persistent redness, fever, or pus are bad signs. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment.

Long-Term Lip Filler Aftercare and Maintenance

Now, everything is in place, but the work does not stop here if you want to have beautiful lips for many months to come.

Here are key practices to integrate into your daily regimen:

• Hydration: Use hydrating serums and moisturizers to keep your lips plump and healthy.
• Sun Protection: Regularly apply a lip balm with SPF to protect the treated area from harmful sun exposure.

Follow-up visits are also required. Minor adjustments or touch-ups can be made to maintain the desired look if necessary. These adjustments help refine the results and extend the duration of the fillers’ effects.

The longevity of hyaluronic acid lip fillers typically ranges between 6 to 12 months. This duration can vary based on the specific product used, and also:

• Metabolism: Individuals with higher metabolic rates tend to break down fillers quickly.
• Lifestyle: Certain lifestyle choices can negatively impact the longevity of your fillers, like smoking, poor nutrition, sun exposure, and so on.

Special Considerations for Perfect Results

There are several factors that everyone overlooks. The season in which you receive your lip fillers can impact your aftercare routine.

• Summer: Increased sun exposure during the summer months necessitates rigorous sun protection. UV rays can accelerate the breakdown of hyaluronic acid fillers and increase the risk of complications. To protect your lips, regularly apply a lip balm with a high SPF, wear hats, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak hours.
• Winter: Cold weather and low humidity can dry your lips in the winter. To combat this, use hydrating lip balms, apply a gentle moisturizer frequently, and use a humidifier indoors to maintain adequate moisture levels in the air. Additionally, drink plenty of water.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

It is generally recommended to avoid lip fillers during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the lack of sufficient studies on the safety of fillers for these populations. Although probably safe, the effects of the ingredients in lip fillers on a developing fetus or nursing infant are not well understood, and therefore, it is best to err on the side of caution.

If you are still considering lip fillers and are pregnant or breastfeeding, you must first get a green light from an expert.

In Summary

You have to remember one thing — proper aftercare is the key to achieving and maintaining lip fillers.

If you follow the guidelines from this article (or give the same advice to your patients), you can significantly minimize the risk of complications and poor outcomes.

All three stages are equally important. Immediate post-procedure care sets the foundation for optimal healing. Short-term aftercare further supports the healing process and ensures the fillers settle correctly. Long-term maintenance helps preserve the enhanced appearance of lips and prolong the effects of the fillers.

Enjoy the confidence that comes with beautifully enhanced lips!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I wear lipstick immediately after getting lip fillers?

It’s best to avoid wearing lipstick for at least 24 hours. This helps prevent irritation and potential infection. After this period, you can gently apply lipstick, but many experts recommend refraining from using it for a few more days.

Is getting a facial or skin treatment safe after a procedure?

Stay away from facials and skin treatments for at least two weeks. These procedures almost always apply pressure to the treated area, potentially displacing the filler.

Are hot beverages safe after lip filler injections?

For the first 24 hours after lip filler injections, it’s advisable to avoid hot beverages. Heat can increase swelling and sensitivity in the treated area. Opt for cool or room-temperature drinks instead. Also, avoid using a straw. The suction can cause pressure on the lips.

How do I reduce the risk of an allergic reaction?

Only high-quality, FDA-approved fillers are the proper choice to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Patients should follow all aftercare instructions carefully and monitor for any unusual symptoms.

What are the signs that my lip fillers are migrating?

Signs of filler migration include asymmetry, lumps, or filler appearing outside the intended area. Early intervention can help correct the issue.

How often should I get touch-ups for my lip fillers?

Touch-up frequency depends on the type of filler used and individual metabolism. Generally, touch-ups are recommended every 6 to 12 months.

Can I sleep on my side with lip fillers?

It’s better to sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first few nights. This position reduces swelling and prevents unintentional pressure on the treated area. Use extra pillows if necessary to maintain this position.

References

Yazdanparast T, Samadi A, Hasanzadeh H, Nasrollahi SA, Firooz A, Kashani MN. Assessment of the Efficacy and Safety of Hyaluronic Acid Gel Injection in the Restoration of Fullness of the Upper Lips. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2017 Apr-Jun;10(2):101-105. doi: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_115_16. PMID: 28852297; PMCID: PMC5561704.
Rho NK, Goo BL, Youn SJ, Won CH, Han KH. Lip Lifting Efficacy of Hyaluronic Acid Filler Injections: A Quantitative Assessment Using 3-Dimensional Photography. J Clin Med. 2022 Aug 4;11(15):4554. doi: 10.3390/jcm11154554. PMID: 35956168; PMCID: PMC9369503.