What To Avoid After Lip Fillers?

February 28, 2025 9:01 pm

Lip fillers can give your lips a fuller, more defined look. The procedure doesn’t take long, but how you care for your lips afterward makes a big difference in how they heal and how long the results last.

For the first few days, you’ll want to avoid certain things to keep swelling and bruising down and help the fillers settle properly. A little extra care now means a smoother healing process and better results.

 

Activities to Avoid

Taking care of your lips after fillers is just as important as the procedure itself. Certain activities can lead to unnecessary swelling, bruising, or even affect how the filler settles. To ensure the best results, here’s what you should avoid in the first few days:

Exercise & Heavy Sweating

Getting your heart rate up might be great for your overall health, but after lip fillers, it can do more harm than good. Exercise increases blood flow, which can lead to more swelling and bruising in the treated area. Additionally, sweating may introduce bacteria to the injection sites, increasing the risk of irritation or infection.

If you’re used to working out daily, take at least 24 to 48 hours off. Light walking is fine, but high-intensity workouts, hot yoga, or anything that makes you sweat should wait.

Kissing or Pressing on the Lips

Your lips may feel a little tender or swollen, and while you might want to touch them, it’s best to keep your hands off. Kissing, pressing, or massaging your lips can shift the filler before it has fully settled, leading to uneven results.

Even small habits like resting your lips against a cup or biting them should be avoided. If possible, sleep on your back to prevent accidental pressure on your lips during the night.

Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol can thin the blood, making swelling and bruising worse. It also dehydrates your body, which isn’t ideal when your lips need moisture to heal properly.

To avoid unnecessary complications, stay away from alcohol for at least 24 hours after your procedure. Instead, drink plenty of water to keep your body and lips hydrated, which will help with a smoother recovery.

By avoiding these activities, you’ll give your lips the best chance to heal properly and ensure your fillers settle evenly for beautiful, long-lasting results.

 

Food & Drinks to Avoid

What you eat and drink after getting lip fillers can make a difference in how quickly your lips heal. Some foods and beverages can increase swelling, irritation, or even interfere with the filler settling properly. Here’s what to avoid in the first few days:

Hot or Spicy Foods

Your lips may feel tender and sensitive after the procedure, so it’s best to avoid anything too hot or spicy. Hot foods and drinks can increase blood flow to the lips, leading to more swelling, while spicy foods can cause irritation or even a burning sensation.

Stick to lukewarm or cool foods and drinks for at least 24 to 48 hours. If you’re craving something warm, let it cool down a bit before eating.

Straws

Using a straw may seem harmless, but the sucking motion puts pressure on your lips, which can interfere with how the filler settles. The repeated movement can also cause slight discomfort, especially if your lips are swollen or bruised.

It’s best to drink directly from a cup or bottle for the first few days. If you need to be extra careful, try using a spoon for liquids like smoothies or soups.

Salty or Acidic Foods

Salty and acidic foods can make swelling worse and cause irritation around the injection sites. Citrus fruits, vinegar-based dressings, or anything overly salty can leave your lips feeling more inflamed and uncomfortable.

Opt for mild, non-acidic foods and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. This will help with recovery and keep your lips feeling their best.

By avoiding these foods and drinks, you’ll help your lips heal faster and minimize any unnecessary discomfort. Once the swelling goes down, you can gradually return to your usual diet!

 

Skincare & Makeup

Your lips will be sensitive after getting fillers, so it’s important to be gentle with them. Skincare and makeup products that you normally use might not be the best choice right away. To avoid irritation or infection, here’s what to skip for the first few days:

Lip Exfoliation or Scrubbing

If you’re used to exfoliating your lips to keep them smooth, hold off for now. Scrubs, exfoliating tools, or even rubbing your lips too hard can cause irritation and slow down the healing process. Your lips need time to settle, and scrubbing them too soon can lead to uneven healing or even disrupt the filler placement.

If your lips feel dry, don’t peel or pick at them. Instead, stay hydrated and let them heal naturally. Once the swelling is gone, you can gradually return to your usual lip care routine.

Applying Lipstick or Lip Balm

While it might be tempting to apply lipstick or lip balm to cover swelling or dryness, it’s best to avoid them for at least 24 hours. Makeup products and lip balms can introduce bacteria to the injection sites, increasing the risk of infection. Some products also contain ingredients that may cause irritation or make your lips feel even more sensitive.

If your lips feel dry, ask your provider if you can use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. Otherwise, staying hydrated will help keep your lips soft and prevent unnecessary irritation.

By giving your lips a break from exfoliation and makeup, you’ll help them heal smoothly and reduce the risk of any complications. Once your lips feel back to normal, you can go back to your usual beauty routine!

 

Sleeping & Positioning

How you sleep and position your lips in the first few days after fillers can make a big difference in your healing process. Pressure on your lips can affect how the filler settles, so it’s best to be mindful of how you sleep and what your lips come into contact with.

Sleeping Face Down

If you tend to sleep on your stomach or side, try to switch to sleeping on your back for at least the first few nights. Sleeping face down can put unnecessary pressure on your lips, which might lead to uneven filler distribution or prolonged swelling.

To keep yourself comfortable and prevent rolling over in your sleep, consider using an extra pillow to support your head and keep it elevated. This can also help with swelling and promote better healing.

Pressing Lips Against Objects

It’s easy to forget how often we press our lips against objects, like cups, bottles, or even our hands. However, these small habits can put unwanted pressure on your lips and increase the risk of irritation or infection.

To avoid this:

• Drink from a wide-mouthed glass instead of bottles with narrow openings.
• Avoid biting or pressing your lips together unnecessarily.
• Be mindful of resting your face on your hand, as this can also introduce bacteria to the injection sites.

By being careful about how you sleep and what your lips come into contact with, you’ll help your filler settle properly and reduce any discomfort during the healing process.

 

Medical Concerns

Swelling and bruising are normal after getting lip fillers, but knowing what to expect can help you feel more at ease. It’s also important to be aware of any signs that something isn’t healing properly. Here’s what you need to know:

How Long Swelling and Bruising Lasts

Right after your procedure, you can expect some swelling and minor bruising. This is completely normal and usually peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours. Over the next few days, the swelling will gradually go down, and your lips will start to look more natural.

In most cases:

• Swelling improves within 3 to 5 days.
• Minor bruising may take about a week to fade.
• Your final lip shape will be visible after about two weeks, once the filler has fully settled.

To help reduce swelling, you can gently apply a cold compress (without pressing too hard) and drink plenty of water. Avoid salty foods and alcohol, as they can make swelling worse.

Signs of Complications

While most people heal without any issues, it’s good to be aware of warning signs that may need medical attention. If you notice any of the following, contact your provider:

• Severe or worsening pain – Mild discomfort is normal, but sharp or intense pain isn’t.
• Excessive swelling or bruising – If your lips continue to swell significantly after 3 to 5 days, it could be a sign of an issue.
• Lumps or uneven filler placement – Some minor unevenness is normal at first, but if you notice persistent lumps or an irregular shape after two weeks, consult your provider.
• Signs of infection – Redness, warmth, pus, or fever may indicate an infection and should be checked immediately.
• Skin discoloration or numbness – If any areas of your lips or surrounding skin turn pale, blue, or feel numb, this could be a sign of a rare but serious complication, and you should seek medical attention right away.

If you’re ever unsure whether something is normal, it’s always better to check with your provider. Being informed and cautious will help you enjoy your new lips with confidence!

How to Care for Your Lips After Fillers

Taking care of your lips after fillers is just as important as getting them done. The first few days matter most, so avoiding certain foods, activities, and habits can help your lips heal faster and keep your results looking great.

A little swelling and bruising are normal, but things like skipping intense workouts, being gentle with makeup, and watching how you sleep can make a big difference. If something feels off, like sharp pain, lumps, or signs of infection, don’t wait to check in with your provider.

With the right care, your lips will heal beautifully and you’ll be able to enjoy your new look with confidence!

 

FAQs

How Long Should I Avoid Certain Activities After Lip Fillers?

For the first 24 to 48 hours, try to avoid things like exercise, alcohol, and makeup. Swelling can take up to a week to go down, so be gentle with your lips during that time.

Can I Drink Coffee After Getting Lip Fillers?

Yes, but let it cool down first. Hot drinks can make swelling worse, so it’s better to stick to lukewarm or cold drinks for the first day or two.

When Can I Wear Lipstick Again?

Give it at least 24 hours before applying lipstick, lip balm, or anything else on your lips to avoid introducing bacteria. If your lips still feel sensitive, waiting a little longer might be a good idea.

Is It Normal for My Lips to Feel Lumpy After Fillers?

Yes, a little unevenness or small lumps are normal in the first few days as swelling goes down. If your injector says it’s okay, gentle massage can help smooth things out. But if the lumps are still there after two weeks, check with your provider.

How Long Does It Take for Lip Fillers to Settle?

Your lips will start looking more natural after about a week, but full results usually take two weeks.

What If My Lips Look Uneven After Fillers?

Swelling can make lips look uneven at first. Give it at least two weeks for the swelling to go down before deciding if they need a touch-up. If they still look uneven, check with your provider.

Can I Sleep on My Side After Getting Lip Fillers?

Try to sleep on your back for the first few nights so you don’t put pressure on your lips. If you’re a side sleeper, an extra pillow can help keep you in place.

What Should I Do If My Lips Feel Too Swollen?

Swelling is totally normal, especially in the first couple of days. A cold compress (don’t press too hard) and staying hydrated can help. Try to avoid salty foods and alcohol since they can make swelling worse.

When Should I See a Doctor After Lip Fillers?

If you have severe pain, extreme swelling, hard lumps that don’t go away, or signs of infection like redness, warmth, or pus, call your provider. If your lips or skin turn pale or blue, get medical help right away.

Can I Touch My Lips After Getting Fillers?

It’s best to leave them alone for the first day or two. Touching or pressing them too much can cause irritation or move the filler around. If your provider says gentle massage is okay after a few days, follow their advice.