After lip filler treatment, it’s important to drink lots of water, eat healthy, and avoid touching or massaging your lips. Following proper aftercare can minimize the risk of any complication and gives smooth, natural-looking results. Here we have shared easy 8 lip filler aftercare tips to follow.
Are you going to get lip injections but first want to know the right lip filler aftercare? That’s a smart and the right approach!
How do you take care of your lips after getting lip fillers? This is one of the most frequently asked questions people have straight after getting their lips done. You may be a first-timer or a repeat client, but good aftercare makes all the difference in getting the best out of your treatment and preventing any issues.
This blog includes all you want to know regarding lip filler aftercare: dos and don’ts, signs to return to your practitioner. Let’s get into the details.
Lip Fillers Explained
Lip filler is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that volumises and contours your lips with a gentle gel-like material (usually derived from hyaluronic acid). Though it’s fast and safe when performed by an experienced professional, the recovery process is as necessary as the procedure itself.
8 Lip Filler Aftercare TipsÂ
So, how do you take care of your lips after fillers? These easy tips will have your lips heal well and provide you with the optimum result.
Use Ice Packs
Icing reduces lip filler swelling and calms the skin. Get some ice cubes in a clothe or gauze and apply them gently to your lips for 10 minutes. Then, remove them and repeat as needed, up to 3- 4 times daily in the first 24 hours.
Drink Lots of Water
Hydration helps your skin and assists your body in flushing out any minor swelling. Try to have at least 6–8 glasses of water daily for the first few days.
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Use Arnica Cream
According to 2015 study, arnica is a home remedy that assists with swelling and bruising . If your practitioner assures you it’s okay, you may apply arnica cream carefully around the lips (not within your mouth). It will speed up your healing and prevent any purple or yellow marks.
Eat Healthy
What you eat does matter. Attempt to consume soft, healthy food for the initial day or two. Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins that support healing. Steer clear of salty crisps or spicy foods.
Keep Lips Clean
Keep your lips clean by washing your face with a gentle, fragrance-free face cleanser. Do not scrub or rub the area. Take a soft towel and pat it gently on your lips, avoid vigorous wiping.Â
Sleep with Your Head Raised
For the first two nights, sleep on your back with a slight elevation by using an extra pillow. This reduces the swelling and prevents the filler from shifting.
Wait 2–4 Weeks Before Big Events
Your lips will take time to settle and heal completely. If you’re having a wedding, photoshoot, or night out, consider getting your lip fillers done at least 2–4 weeks in advance. This allows your body to recover and your lips to look stunning.
Follow Your Practitioner’s AdviceÂ
Always follow the aftercare tips provided by your practitioner or aesthetician. They know precisely what your lips require, tailored to your treatment and body. If you’re unsure, ask.
What to Avoid after Lip Filler?
Here’s what you should avoid if you have recently got lip injections:
Don’t Touch, Press, or Massage Your Lips
It may be tempting to poke at your lips, particularly if they are bumpy or lumpy, but don’t do it! Kneading or pushing on the area can cause the filler to shift or spread, which could result in uneven outcomes.
Don’t Do Intense Exercise
Avoid any strenuous activity that elevates your heart rate for at least 24–48 hours. Activities like going to the gym, running, dancing, or taking long walks may increase swelling and bruising.
Don’t Drink Alcohol
Alcohol makes your blood thinner, which may cause additional bruising. Stay away from alcohol for a minimum of 24 hours following your treatment, longer if you continue to have swelling.
Don’t Smoke or Use Straws

Puckering your lips to smoke or drink from a straw causes tension on the filler and makes it shift. Avoid pursing your lips for the initial 48 hours, and refrain from smoking altogether if possible, as it also reduces healing.
Don’t Step into Heated Environments
No hot showers, steam room, sauna, or baths for a minimum of 48 hours. Heat can cause blood vessels to dilate, which may lead to bruising or severe swelling.
Don’t Sit in the Sun or Tanning Beds
Avoid direct sun or sunbeds for at least 24 hours after your treatment. Exposure to UV can be irritating to the skin and cause healing to take longer. If you do need to be outside, cover up with a hat and stay in the shade.
Don’t Fly for 48 Hours
If you’re going on holiday, consider delaying your flight for at least 48 hours. Air pressure fluctuations can cause the filler to swell and deteriorate further.
Don’t Take Blood Thinning Medicines
Avoid drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. These can exacerbate bruising and bleeding. For pain relief, use paracetamol (that too after consulting your practitioner).
Don’t Wear Makeup on Your Lips
Avoid makeup or lip balm for 24–48 hours. Even the cleanest products can carry bacteria, which might lead to an infection while your lips are still healing.
Don’t Get Skin Treatments
No facials, chemical peels, microneedling, or skin lasers for at least 2 weeks. Let your lips fully settle before doing anything else to your face.
Why is Lip Filler Aftercare Essential?
After your treatment, your lips may feel tender, puffy or bruised. That’s completely normal. However, suppose you don’t treat them properly. In that case, things can go wrong, such as filler migrating to the wrong location, swelling persisting for longer than necessary, or, in extreme cases, infection developing.

Lip Filler Aftercare For Best Results
Correct aftercare will:
- Speed up the healing process of your lips.
- Lessen the degree of bruising and swelling.
- Keep the filler right where it’s supposed to be.
- Provide you with smooth, long-term, natural-looking results.
Think of aftercare in the same way as taking care of a new tattoo or freshly pierced area. A bit of effort up front makes a huge difference down the line.
When to See Your Practitioner?
The majority of side effects from lip fillers are normal, such as mild swelling, redness, or small bruises. But it helps to know when to get help.
Call your practitioner if you notice:
- White, grey, or very dark lips
- Sharp, severe pain that doesn’t fade away
- Big, hard bumps or uneven swelling
- Warm, red skin that’s tender to the touch
- Any reaction that concerns you
When unsure, always call. Your safety first.
Lip Fillers from an Expert & Proper After Care is Essential

The AMS Aesthetics – Best Lip Fillers In London
Lip fillers can be stunning, but only when you take care of your lips. The recovery process is equally as important as the procedure itself.
Relax, drink plenty of water, avoid excessive heat and contact, and follow the tips above. Your lips will be forever grateful, and your results will be longer-lasting and smoother.
Still unsure about what to do? If you’re in London and seeking the best Lip Filler treatment , book a consultation with our experts at AMS Aesthetics , awarded the best lip filler clinic in London .
FAQs
1. How long after lip fillers can I wash my lips?
You can wash your face the same day, but be gentle, avoid scrubbing your lips. Use a soft towel and pat dry.
2. How long until lips are normal after filler?
Most swelling typically subsides within 2–3 days. Your lips should feel and look settled in about 1–2 weeks.
3. Can I put Vaseline on my lips after fillers?
Yes, you can, but only after the first 24 hours and if your practitioner approves. Use clean fingers and be gentle.
4. Should I smile after lip fillers?
You can smile gently, but avoid excessive lip movement for the first 24–48 hours to allow the filler to settle.