Beautiful results begin long before you sit in the treatment chair. At Gifted Medspa in Cary, NC, we believe that proper preparation is key to achieving subtle, natural-looking results. Whether you’re new to neuromodulators or a seasoned pro, our goal is to help you prepare for your appointment and set the stage for the best possible outcome. From timing your treatment perfectly to knowing which medications or supplements to avoid, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your experience smooth and successful.
Preparing for Your Neuromodulator Treatment
1. Schedule Smart
At Gifted Medspa, we recommend scheduling your appointment at least two weeks before any major events to allow your results to fully develop and any potential bruising or swelling to subside. Botox typically takes around two weeks to take full effect, while Dysport works a bit faster, usually kicking in within about a week. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, reunion, or holiday celebration, giving yourself this buffer ensures you’ll look your absolute best for your special occasion.
2. Avoid Blood Thinning Medications
Some medications and supplements can increase the risk of bruising at the injection sites. A few days before your appointment, we recommend avoiding aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil and ginger supplements. Always consult with your doctor before stopping any prescribed medications, especially blood thinners for medical conditions. At your consultation, let your provider know what medications or supplements you’re taking for personalized guidance.
3. Limit Caffeine & Alcohol
Skip that morning coffee and evening glass of wine for 24 hours before your neuromodulator appointment. Both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate you and act as mild blood thinners. This can increase the risk of bruising and make your treatment a little more uncomfortable.
4. Stay Cool & Hydrated
In the days leading up to your appointment, drink plenty of water and avoid excessive heat exposure (so no saunas or hot yoga, sorry!). Well-hydrated skin responds better to treatment, while a higher body temperature can increase bruising by dilating the blood vessels.
5. Arrive With Clean Skin
The morning of your appointment, wash your face thoroughly but skip applying heavy creams, serums or makeup. While it isn’t an absolute must, arriving with clean skin keeps the area free from contaminants and allows our providers to clearly see your facial movements for precise results. If you come in with makeup, it will be removed before beginning the injection process.
6. Make an Appointment With an Experienced Professional
Having the right provider can make or break your Botox results. Make sure your provider is experienced and qualified to administer neuromodulator injections. At Gifted Medspa, our skilled injectors — Anna Ciccolini, PA-C and Darren Ciccolini, PA-C — combine an eye for symmetry and detail with extensive aesthetic training to provide beautiful and natural-looking results you’ll love.
What to Do (or Not Do) After Your Appointment
You’ve just had your treatment at Gifted Medspa — now what? Our experienced providers will walk you through the aftercare process and send you home with detailed instructions, but here is what you need to know when it comes to minimizing side effects and optimizing your results.
- Don’t touch your face. It’s best practice to keep the treated area clean for 12-24 hours after your appointment to reduce the risk of infection. You also don’t want to risk accidentally causing the neuromodulator to spread or migrate beneath the skin by touching or rubbing your face, as this could negatively impact your final results.
- Apply ice as needed. Ice is your friend when it comes to minimizing bruising, swelling and redness at the injection sites. Gently hold an ice pack or a cold compress to your skin for a few minutes after your treatment and as directed throughout the day.
- Avoid lying down for a few hours. Staying upright will help prevent spreading and bruising, so avoid activities that require you to bend over or lie down. This helps ensure the neurotoxin stays exactly where intended for optimal results.
- Hold off on strenuous exercise for 24 hours post-injection. While you can return to most daily activities immediately, skip the intense workouts for a day. Elevated blood pressure from exercise could cause bruising or swelling at injection sites.
If this was your first treatment, we recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment in a week or two. This allows us to assess your results and make any needed adjustments. Many clients also choose to book their next treatment at this time, typically scheduled three to four months out.
Book Your Appointment Today
Achieving your aesthetic goals starts with proper preparation and the right provider. At Gifted Medspa in Cary, NC, our team combines their extensive experience with an artistic eye to deliver beautiful, natural-looking results. If you’re ready to experience the transformative effects of neuromodulator injections, call us today at 919-300-8308 or book an appointment online to get started! We look forward to helping you look as confident and vibrant as you feel.
