Hi, it’s Rinku here! With so many of you preparing for winter getaways or special celebrations, I’ve noticed a trend this season—questions about getting Botox, fillers, or PRP before big events or travel.
These treatments can absolutely elevate your look, but timing and aftercare are key. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can squeeze in a quick “top-up” before taking a flight or hitting the party scene, this guide is for you.
Here are my top 7 things to know before booking your appointment:
1. Timing Your Botox, Fillers, or PRP Treatments in Kitchener-Waterloo
When you book Botox, fillers, or PRP before a big event, timing is everything! Botox generally takes 7–14 days to settle into your skin and show its full effects, so it’s important to plan ahead. If you’re looking for a refreshed, wrinkle-free look for an event, schedule Botox appointments at least two weeks in advance.
For fillers, the effects are noticeable immediately, but there may be some initial swelling or bruising that takes a few days to resolve. Ideally, book your filler session at least 1–2 weeks before your event to ensure you have time for any minor swelling or bruising to subside.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatments are a little different. While the initial results are subtle, PRP stimulates collagen production and skin rejuvenation over a period of weeks or even months. For the best results, you should plan your PRP treatments 6–8 weeks before a major event. If you’re just looking for an added glow, you might get by with a shorter timeline, but you’ll see more dramatic results with a little extra time.
2. PRP Aftercare: What to Know Before Heading to a Big Event or Sunny Destination
PRP is a wonderful treatment, but it requires some careful post-care. One of the most important things to keep in mind is protecting your skin from UV rays after a PRP treatment. The healing process involves your skin regenerating, so it’s best to avoid direct sun exposure, especially within the first two weeks after treatment. For those heading on a sunny getaway, consider scheduling your PRP appointment at least 4–6 weeks before your departure date.
I recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 or higher, wearing hats, and using protective clothing to shield your face from the sun’s harsh rays. It’s also helpful to give your skin a few days to heal after PRP before exposing it to hot climates, where humidity and sun can slow down the skin’s healing process.
PRP is a long-term investment in your skin’s health, and protecting it post-treatment ensures that you get the full benefits.
3. Minimizing Swelling and Bruising After Fillers or Botox in Kitchener-Waterloo
It’s common to experience mild swelling or bruising after Botox or filler treatments, but don’t worry—these side effects are temporary and can usually be minimized with the right care.
After Botox, you might notice some swelling around the injection sites, which should dissipate within a few hours. Fillers, on the other hand, may cause more noticeable swelling, especially around the cheeks, lips, or under-eye areas.
Here’s how you can minimize these effects:
Cold compress: Apply a cold compress immediately after the procedure to reduce swelling and bruising.
Arnica gel: Arnica is a natural remedy that can help speed up the healing process and reduce bruising. You can apply it gently to the affected areas after 24 hours.
Avoid touching the area: Don’t massage or press on the treated areas for at least 24 hours after your appointment, as this can disrupt the placement of the injectables.
Limit intense physical activity: Avoid exercise for the first 24-48 hours post-treatment to prevent increased blood flow, which can exacerbate bruising.
If you have an event coming up shortly after your treatment, makeup can help conceal any visible signs of bruising. But remember, the more time you give your skin to recover, the smoother the results will be.
4. Botox, Fillers, and PRP: Why Post-Treatment Care Is Crucial
Aftercare is just as important as the treatment itself when it comes to injectables like Botox, fillers, and PRP. For Botox and fillers, I highly recommend following the instructions provided during your consultation. This will help you avoid complications and enhance the overall results.
Here are a few general aftercare guidelines to follow:
Avoid hot environments: For 24 hours after treatment, stay away from hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms, as excessive heat can increase swelling and bruising.
Don’t lie flat: After Botox or fillers, try not to lie flat for at least 4 hours, as this can cause the product to move.
Avoid alcohol and certain medications: Refrain from drinking alcohol or taking medications like aspirin or ibuprofen that can thin the blood for at least 24 hours after treatment.
PRP requires even more care due to the nature of the treatment. Immediately after PRP, your skin may feel slightly tight or tender, which is totally normal. For the first 48 hours, avoid using any harsh skincare products, and be sure to hydrate well to support the healing process. PRP also stimulates collagen production, so the more you nourish and protect your skin, the better your long-term results will be.
5. The Best Time to Schedule Botox or Fillers Before Big Events
We all know how stressful it can be to squeeze in last-minute appointments, especially when it comes to getting ready for a big event.
My advice: Don’t wait until the last minute.
You want your treatments to have time to fully settle and for any potential swelling or bruising to go down. Ideally, Botox should be scheduled two weeks before your big event, and fillers should be booked at least 1–2 weeks ahead of time.
If you’re planning for something like a wedding or a holiday party, booking early also ensures you get the time slot that works best for your schedule. It’s always better to give yourself a cushion of time so you don’t feel rushed or stressed. If you need to make changes to your appointment due to unforeseen circumstances, you’ll have enough time to adjust.
6. Winter Travel Skin Care Tips After Botox, Fillers, or PRP
Winter weather can be harsh on your skin, and after treatments like Botox, fillers, or PRP, you want to be extra mindful of how the cold and dry air affects your skin. The key is hydration—both externally and internally.
Moisturize generously: Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer that’s free from irritating ingredients like alcohol or fragrances. Apply it both morning and night to lock in moisture and help your skin heal.
Drink plenty of water: Hydration from the inside out is just as important. Drink lots of water to keep your skin supple and glowing.
Avoid harsh winds: If you’re going on a winter vacation, be sure to protect your face from cold winds, which can exacerbate dryness and irritation. Consider wearing a scarf or a protective balm.
Layer up on SPF: Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you should skip sunscreen. UV rays can still damage your skin, even on overcast days or while you’re on the slopes.
Remember, your skin is more sensitive after treatment, so treating it with extra care will enhance your results.
7. Fillers and Air Travel: What Kitchener-Waterloo Clients Need to Know
A common question I get from clients is whether air travel can affect the results of fillers. While air pressure changes during flights won’t usually disrupt Botox, fillers can sometimes lead to temporary swelling in the days following treatment. I generally recommend avoiding flying for at least 3-4 days after your filler session to give your body time to adjust.
If you’re planning a trip shortly after your procedure, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the risk of filler migration or swelling:
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water during your flight helps reduce swelling and promotes healing.
Move around: Take frequent breaks during the flight to reduce pressure on the face.
Rest: If you have the option, elevate your head while sleeping on the plane to avoid putting extra pressure on your face.
These simple tips will help ensure you look and feel your best when you reach your destination.
Whether you’re prepping for a holiday party, destination wedding, or a tropical escape, planning your treatments is key to achieving the glowing, refreshed look you’re after. At Elev8 Aesthetic Medicine, we work with you to create a customized beauty plan that fits your timeline, so you can look and feel your best, stress-free.
Are you ready to elevate your look before your next big event? Book your consultation today, and let’s create a plan tailored just for you. Visit Elev8 Aesthetic Medicine Inc. or call us to secure your spot before the winter rush!
Rinku