Whether you're aiming for fuller lips, lifted cheeks, smoother smile lines, or any other aesthetic enhancements, dermal fillers offer a non-surgical way to refresh your look with minimal downtime. But as with any cosmetic treatment, what you do before and after your procedure matters just as much as the filler itself.
Even though the procedure may only take 30-45 minutes (depending on what you’re getting done), your preparation and aftercare can dramatically influence how well your results turn out and how long they last.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the do’s and don’ts for dermal filler treatments, help you avoid common mistakes, and offer helpful tips for a confident, worry-free experience.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable gels commonly made of hyaluronic acid - a naturally occurring substance in your body that attracts moisture and adds volume.1 They’re used to:
- Restore facial volume lost due to aging
- Smooth out fine lines and wrinkles
- Enhance features like lips, chin, and jawline
- Rejuvenate under-eye hollows or smile lines
Most fillers provide immediate, natural-looking results and can last anywhere from 6 to 24 months, depending on the product used and the area treated.
What to Do Before Getting Dermal Fillers
Preparation is key. What you do in the days leading up to your appointment can reduce discomfort, minimize bruising, and make for better, longer-lasting results.
DO’S BEFORE TREATMENT
1. Schedule Smartly
Plan your appointment at least 1-2 weeks before any major event or photoshoot. Some swelling or bruising is normal, so giving your face some time to settle after the treatment will ensure that you look your best for the event.
2. Stay Hydrated
Hyaluronic acid attracts water, so drinking plenty of fluids before your appointment helps the filler integrate better and enhances your results.
3. Get Enough Sleep
Rest supports your body’s natural healing process. Aim for a full night of sleep before treatment to keep inflammation low and your stress hormones in check.
4. Disclose Your Medications and Health History
Always tell your doctor if you’re taking medications, especially blood thinners, or if you have any allergies or underlying health conditions.
5. Avoid Alcohol for at least 24 Hours2
Alcohol dilates blood vessels and thins the blood, increasing the risk of bruising and swelling post-treatment. Skip the drink until a few days after your appointment.
DON’TS BEFORE TREATMENT
1. Don’t Take Blood-Thinning Medications or Supplements2
Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, garlic, and ginkgo biloba (and other similar medications/supplements) for at least 7 days before your procedure. These can increase your chances of bruising.
2. Don’t Wax, Tweeze, or Use Harsh Skincare
Hair removal around the treatment area and products like retinol or glycolic acid can irritate the skin. Stop using these at least 48 hours beforehand.
3. Don’t Skip Meals
Have a light meal before your appointment. Coming in on an empty stomach can make you feel lightheaded, especially if you're nervous or sensitive to needles.
What to Do After Getting Dermal Fillers
Once your fillers are injected and in place, the healing process begins. Gentle care, smart choices, and a little patience will help your face settle beautifully and reduce any potential side effects.
DO’S AFTER TREATMENT
1. Use a Cool Pack
Apply a clean, cold compress to the treated area intermittently on the first day. This can help reduce swelling and soothe discomfort. Just remember - no direct ice contact with the skin.
2. Apply Arnica to Minimize Bruising
Topical arnica (or even arnica tablets) can be effective in reducing bruising. Eating pineapple may also help, as it contains bromelain (an enzyme with anti-inflammatory benefits).
3. Sleep on Your Back with Your Head Elevated
Avoid putting any pressure on your face while sleeping. Use extra pillows or a wedge pillow to keep your head elevated and reduce swelling.
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods
A healthy, hydrated body heals faster. Drink water regularly and choose antioxidant-rich foods to support tissue recovery.
5. Be Gentle with Skincare
You can apply makeup or sunscreen the next day, but be extra gentle when touching your face. Use clean hands and avoid rubbing or pressing on the treated area.
6. Ask Before Taking Pain Relievers
If you feel discomfort, consult your doctor before taking medication. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is typically safe, but blood thinners like ibuprofen should still be avoided.
DON’TS AFTER TREATMENT
1. Don’t Rub or Massage the Area
Unless instructed by your injector, avoid massaging the treated area. This can cause the filler to move, especially within the first 24-48 hours.
2. Don’t Exercise Right Away
Give your body time to rest a bit and settle. Skip intense workouts for at least 24-48 hours, as increased blood flow can make swelling worse and may affect the filler’s placement.
3. Avoid Heat and Sun Exposure
Stay away from saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and direct sunlight for at least 48 hours. Heat can increase swelling and irritate the treated area.
4. Don’t Wear Tight Headgear or Face Masks
Avoid anything that puts pressure on your face, like tight goggles, hats, or masks that press against the treated areas.
5. Don’t Schedule Facials or Lasers Right Away
Give your skin a break. Avoid facials, peels, microneedling, or laser treatments for at least two weeks after your filler session.
Genefill: The Smart Choice
Now that you know how to care before and after treatment, it’s worth considering the quality of the filler itself. Genefill is a line of premium, hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers designed for natural results, long-term safety, and minimal downtime.
Made with highly purified, cross-linked HA of non-animal origin, Genefill fillers are gentle on the body and less likely to cause allergic reactions. Their smooth, elastic texture allows for easy integration into the skin, making them a favorite among both patients and doctors.
Genefill Offers:
- Customizable products for fine lines, volume restoration, & facial contouring
- Minimal swelling and discomfort post-treatment
- Long-lasting, with results lasting up to 12 months (depending on the product)
- Collagen-stimulating options like Genefill DX for deeper rejuvenation3,4
Whether you're new to fillers or looking for a refined, natural upgrade, Genefill has got just the right solutions for you.
Contraindications - Who Should Avoid Fillers?
While dermal fillers (especially hyaluronic acid fillers) are generally safe, well-tolerated, and non-surgical, they aren’t right for everyone in every situation. Like any cosmetic procedure, there are some important safety considerations to be aware of before moving forward.
If you’re thinking about getting facial fillers, knowing whether you fall into a group that should delay or avoid treatment altogether is important. Being honest with your doctor about your health, skin condition, and medical history helps ensure both your safety and the success of your results.
Here are some key scenarios where dermal filler treatment may not be advisable:
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding5
Although there’s no proven harm, fillers aren’t recommended during pregnancy or while nursing because their safety hasn’t been studied in these groups. It’s best to wait in such cases.
Cancer or Autoimmune Conditions5
If you’re undergoing cancer treatment or have an autoimmune disease, your immune system may be compromised, which could impact how your body reacts to the filler. Always consult with your healthcare provider first.
Active Skin Infections or Inflammation6
If you have a rash, cold sore, acne flare-up, or any kind of skin infection near the injection site, it’s best to reschedule your treatment. Injections into inflamed or broken skin can make things worse or even delay healing.
Flare-ups of Chronic Conditions
Chronic skin issues like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis should be well-managed before undergoing fillers. If you’re experiencing a flare-up, wait until symptoms calm down to avoid irritating the already sensitive areas.
Blood Clotting Disorders7
If you have a condition like hemophilia or are on blood-thinning medications, you may be at a higher risk for bruising and bleeding. Your injector may request medical clearance before proceeding.
Recent Laser, Peel, or Microneedling Treatments
If you've recently had treatments like laser resurfacing, chemical peels, or microneedling, your skin needs time to heal before undergoing fillers. These procedures can temporarily leave the skin extra sensitive and more reactive.
Known Allergies to Filler Ingredients6,7
If you have a history of allergic reactions to any of the filler ingredients, be sure to let your injector know. A patch test may be necessary, or an alternative solution may be recommended.
Tendency for Keloid Scarring
If your skin tends to form keloids or thick scars, dermal fillers may not be the best option, especially in high-tension areas. Discuss your history with your doctor so they can assess your risk.
If any of these conditions apply to you, it doesn’t necessarily mean fillers are off the table, but it does mean you need an open conversation with a qualified professional.
Taking that extra step helps you make informed choices and ensures your filler experience is safe, smooth, and suited to your body’s needs.
Final Thoughts
Dermal fillers can subtly enhance your natural features and restore youthful volume, but the real magic happens when you combine the right product with the right preparation and aftercare.
Take time to understand the do’s and don’ts, communicate openly with your doctor or injector, and treat your face with care in the days before and after your appointment. When you do, you’ll not only look better but you’ll also feel more confident about every step in the process.
Considering Genefill for your next treatment? Contact us and let’s discuss how our high-performance, next-gen dermal fillers can deliver subtle, long-lasting results you’ll love.
References
- Wu GT, Kam J, Bloom JD. Hyaluronic Acid Basics and Rheology. Clin Plast Surg. 2023;50(3):391-398.
- Philipp-Dormston WG, Bergfeld D, Sommer BM, Sattler G, Cotofana S, Snozzi P, Wollina U, Hoffmann KPJ, Salavastru C, Fritz K. Consensus statement on prevention and management of adverse effects following rejuvenation procedures with hyaluronic acid-based fillers. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2017;31(7):1088-1095.
- Ruiz N, Lopez RM, Marques R, Fontenete S. Clinical Outcomes and Safety Profile of a Dextranomer-Hyaluronic Acid Hybrid Filler: A Case Series Analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(1):e16653.
- Data on file.
- Sánchez-Carpintero I, Candelas D, Ruiz-Rodríguez R. Materiales de relleno: tipos, indicaciones y complicaciones [Dermal fillers: types, indications, and complications]. Actas Dermosifiliogr. 2010 Jun;101(5):381-93.
- Lafaille P, Benedetto A. Fillers: contraindications, side effects and precautions. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2010;3(1):16-9.
- Walker K, Basehore BM, Goyal A, Zito PM. Hyaluronic Acid. [Updated 2023 Jul 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482440/
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