So, you’ve just had your lip filler appointment—exciting! Everyone who knows me, knows I’m all in for little tweaks and beautification in the most natural way – also by using small amounts of filler every once in a while. Whether you went for a subtle enhancement or a fuller pout, what you do after your treatment is just as important as the procedure itself. Proper aftercare ensures you get the best results, avoid unnecessary side effects, and keep your lips looking their best.
Coming from someone, who’s a part of this industry here’s my complete guide to lip filler aftercare.
*I use affiliate links to products that are never sponsored but I trust them myself!
💋 What to Expect Right After Lip Filler
It’s completely normal to experience some:
- Swelling (usually peaks within 24–48 hours)
- Tenderness or mild bruising
- Small lumps or firmness where the filler was injected
Don’t worry—these effects usually fade within a week as your lips settle.
💋 Do’s: How to Care for Your Lips After Filler
1. Apply Ice Packs
Use a clean ice pack wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling. Apply in short intervals (10–15 minutes at a time). Alternatively, you can use little lip shaped packs like these.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to help the filler integrate smoothly.
3. Sleep Elevated
Use an extra pillow to keep swelling down the first night.
4. Keep Lips Clean
Use gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid touching your lips unnecessarily.
5. Use Arnica
These natural supplements can help reduce bruising and swelling. This is my favourite product to use: Arnica Lip Balm
💋 Don’ts: What to Avoid After Lip Filler
1. No Heavy Exercise (24–48 Hours)
Strenuous workouts increase blood flow, which can worsen swelling and bruising.
2. Skip Alcohol & Blood Thinners
Alcohol, aspirin, and ibuprofen can increase bruising—avoid them for at least 24 hours.
3. Don’t Apply Pressure
Avoid massaging, kissing, or using straws for the first 24 hours! This prevents filler from moving. If you have small lumps after 3 days, you can massage them gently, so they resolve.
4. Avoid Heat
Stay away from saunas, hot showers, or sun beds for a few days—they can increase swelling.
5. No Makeup for 24 Hours
Keep lips clean and free from product to reduce infection risk.
💋 When to Call Your Injector
While mild swelling and bruising are normal, contact your provider if you notice:
- Severe or increasing pain
- White or blotchy patches on the lips or skin
- Unusual discoloration or cold sensation in the lips
These could be signs of complications and should be checked right away!
Also contact your injector after 2-3 weeks if you have:
- Persistent lumps after massages
- Asymmetry of the lips
- Think you need more filler, now that the swelling is gone (better to add more later than to overdo it the first time!)
These are not complications, but happen often and can be resolved with minimal tweaks.
✨ Final Thoughts
Lip fillers are a quick way to enhance your look, but aftercare is key to achieving smooth, natural results. Be gentle with your lips, stay hydrated, and follow your injector’s instructions closely. Within a week, your lips should feel soft, settled, and ready to show off.