The desire to enhance one's appearance is universal. Using hyaluronic acid injections for wrinkle reduction has become a common cosmetic procedure. But what precautions should be taken? How should one care for the treated area afterward?Let's break it down for you today~
The hyaluronic acid used for injections must be cross-linked. It is generally categorized into: single-phase cross-linked and dual-phase cross-linked. Dual-phase cross-linked hyaluronic acid is further divided into three types: high molecular weight, medium molecular weight, and low molecular weight. Different types should be selected based on the specific area being treated.
High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid
High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid has the firmest texture and longest-lasting results, making it ideal for facial contouring. Examples include rhinoplasty and chin augmentation.
Medium-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid has a slightly softer texture, best suited for soft tissue filling and deep wrinkles. It is therefore more appropriate for areas like tear troughs, cheekbones, temples, and the forehead.
Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid is primarily used for full-face dermal injections. It replenishes moisture in the dermis, repairs damaged skin, and provides hydrating and skin-softening benefits.
What to Do About Post-Treatment Redness and Swelling?
Due to hyaluronic acid's high water-absorbing capacity, swelling within the first 3 days after injection is normal. For those with sensitive skin, the swelling period may last 4-7 days.Immediately after hyaluronic acid injection, avoid applying heat or cold compresses, refrain from massaging the area, and avoid touching the injection site for at least 6 hours. Avoid spicy or irritating foods for one week. If redness, swelling, or hard lumps persist beyond two weeks, consult your injecting physician for an in-person evaluation.
Bruising on the skin after hyaluronic acid injection is a common post-procedure reaction. This primarily occurs because the area beneath the skin is rich in blood vessels, which may be encountered during the injection process. If bruising appears, avoid applying ice or heat packs, as this can affect the efficacy of the hyaluronic acid. Bruising typically resolves on its own within 4-7 days.
Hyaluronic acid absorbs too quickly after injection!
Some patients report rapid absorption shortly after injection. This phenomenon can stem from several factors:
1. First-time hyaluronic acid injections may be absorbed slightly faster. However, skin absorption capacity is limited, so subsequent treatments typically yield longer-lasting results.
2. Absorption rate also depends on the dosage administered and individual physiology.
3. Late-night activities and alcohol consumption accelerate absorption, as does dry skin. Post-treatment skincare is therefore crucial.
4. Numerous hyaluronic acid brands exist on the market.
3. Lack of sleep, alcohol consumption, and dry skin can accelerate absorption. Post-injection skincare is therefore crucial.
4. Different hyaluronic acid brands on the market absorb at varying rates.
5. Psychological factors play a role: initial swelling after injection may be mistaken for absorption once it subsides.
Within 24 hours post-injection: Keep injection sites dry and clean; avoid wetting or pressing the area.
Within 72 hours post-injection: Refrain from applying medications or cosmetics around injection sites to prevent skin irritation. Keep the area bare.
Avoid facial massage, excessive smiling, or crying to prevent shape distortion. Maintain a neutral facial expression.
For one week post-injection, avoid spicy foods like chili peppers, seafood, beef, and lamb. Refrain from saunas and minimize intake of health supplements, aspirin, or similar blood-activating/stasis-resolving medications.When using hyaluronic acid for extensive filling—such as enhancing cheekbones, nasolabial folds, temples, or chin augmentation—patients may initially feel discomfort or a foreign body sensation. This is not due to facial muscle issues. If no other abnormalities arise, the sensation typically improves within one to two weeks as the hyaluronic acid gradually integrates with the skin.
Can I engage in strenuous exercise after hyaluronic acid injections?
Intense physical activity and sweating accelerate hyaluronic acid metabolism. It is advisable to wait approximately two weeks until the filler has fully stabilized before undertaking vigorous exercise.
After hyaluronic acid treatment, opt for selective phototherapy skincare procedures only after one month. Otherwise, accelerated absorption may cause treated areas to rapidly revert to their original appearance.
Precautions for Hyaluronic Acid Injections
1.Pre-injection precautions:
Before treatment, ensure skin is thoroughly cleansed. Remove all cosmetics and skincare products. Use a facial cleanser and toner to cleanse the skin. Rinse with cold water to minimize pores. Patients are strongly advised to avoid anti-inflammatory medications (such as aspirin) for at least 3–4 days prior to treatment.
2. Post-injection precautions:
After treatment, keep your face relaxed and avoid excessive facial expressions. Avoid exposure to high-temperature environments for at least two weeks post-treatment. Do not touch or massage the injection sites.
3. Adverse Reactions:
Inflammatory skin reactions may occur, typically accompanied by tenderness upon pressure, lasting about one week. Temporary swelling at the injection site is normal. Notify your injecting physician immediately if persistent adverse reactions occur.