Care Guides · Injectables
Lip Filler Pre-Care & Aftercare Instructions
Everything you need to know before and after your lip filler appointment at Revel Beauty Club, including cold sore prevention and how to look after your lips while swelling settles.
Clinically reviewed by our Medical Director, Kelly Ross, NP
Before your appointment · After your treatment · When to contact us
Prone to cold sores?
let your nurse know before your appointment
No straws
for 24 hours after treatment
No lip makeup
for 24 hours after treatment
No travel abroad
within 24 hours of your appointment
Pre-care
Before your lip filler appointment
Swelling and bruising are common after lip filler, so leave some time before a special event or trip. We are happy to help you plan the timing.
- If you are prone to cold sores, take valacyclovir within 24 hours of your appointment. If you do not have a prescription, let your nurse know and one can be arranged for you.
- No active infections or antibiotics within 2 weeks of your appointment.
- No dental work for 2 weeks before your appointment.
- Do not book lip filler if you are travelling out of the country within 24 hours of your appointment, so we are nearby if you have any concerns.
- Avoid blood thinners for 72 hours before. This includes Advil and other blood-thinning medications. Tylenol is OK.
- No alcohol, smoking, cigarettes or vapes for 24 hours before your appointment.
- No vaccines of any kind within 4 weeks of your injections.
- Tell us about any changes to your health, medications or recent treatments.
Aftercare
After your lip filler treatment
Bruising and swelling are common after lip filler and usually improve over the following days. Follow these steps to stay comfortable and protect your results.
First 4 hours
- Nothing on your lips yet.
- After 4 hours, Polysporin and Aquaphor are OK.
First 24 hours
- Do not massage or manipulate your lips.
- Apply a clean cold compress to help with swelling.
- No drinking from a straw or other cylinder-shaped objects.
- No lip makeup.
- No alcohol, smoking, cigarettes or vapes.
- No strenuous exercise.
- No saunas, hot tubs, hot baths or steam rooms.
First 72 hours
- No blood-thinning medications, including Advil.
- Tylenol is OK if you need it.
When to contact us
Some swelling, tenderness and bruising is normal after lip filler. Please call us right away at (416) 766-0066 if you notice:
- Pain that is severe or getting worse instead of better
- Skin on or around your lips that turns white, grey, blue or dusky, or looks blotchy or mottled
- Blisters, sores or a cold sore outbreak on or around your lips
- Swelling, lumps or redness that keep increasing, or signs of infection such as warmth, pus or fever
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching or swelling
Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department right away if you have any changes to your vision, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Lip filler aftercare FAQ
Why do I need to take something for cold sores before lip filler?
Lip injections can trigger a cold sore outbreak in people who are prone to them. Taking valacyclovir within 24 hours of your appointment helps prevent this. If you do not have a prescription, your nurse can arrange one.
Why can’t I use a straw after lip filler?
Sucking on a straw puts pressure on your lips while the filler settles. Avoid straws and other cylinder-shaped objects, like water bottles, for 24 hours.
When can I wear lipstick or lip balm after lip filler?
Avoid lip makeup for 24 hours. Polysporin and Aquaphor are OK after the first 4 hours.
When can I exercise after lip filler?
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after your lip filler treatment.
Can I take Tylenol after my treatment?
Yes. Tylenol is OK. Avoid Advil and other blood-thinning medications for 72 hours after your treatment.
Interested in learning more? Book a complimentary consultation for a personalized treatment plan with our expert Nurse Injectors