Lip Balm Usage Following Lip Augmentation
If you’ve gotten lip injections, you may be wondering if you can apply lip balm during the healing process.
At Bellava MedAesthetics & Plastic Surgery Center, we recommend using lip balms and ointments selectively after lip filler procedures. Read on as we discuss when and how to use lip products after injections.
Lip Fillers Explained
First, let’s review what lip fillers are and how they work. Lip augmentation is a popular minimally invasive treatment for enhancing the shape, size and contour of the lips. There are three main FDA-approved dermal filler substances used:
- Hyaluronic acid – Gel-like products like Juvederm and Restylane integrate into the skin’s existing hyaluronic acid. Provides a temporary plumping effect lasting 6-12 months.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite – Radiesse stimulates collagen production for longer-lasting enhancement up to 18 months.
- Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) – Sculptra induces gradual collagen growth over time. Effects can last around 2 years.
Our skilled injectors use ultra-fine needles to precisely place tiny amounts of these filler substances under the mucous membrane of the lips. The materials integrate within surrounding tissues to add subtle volume and definition.
Some common side effects in the 2-4 weeks after injections include swelling, bruising, tenderness, and redness as the fillers settle into their final position. Avoiding irritation and pressure is crucial during this initial healing period to prevent issues like filler migration, nodules, and asymmetry. That’s why we’re selective about lip balm use after lip fillers.
When Can I Put on Lip Balm After Injections?
In general, we recommend waiting 48-72 hours after your lip filler appointment before applying any lip balms, ointments or cosmetics. Why the waiting period? Immediately after injections, your lips are extra vulnerable. Any products applied could:
- Transfer dirt, oil and bacteria into micro-punctures from the needle.
- Irritate tender tissues and worsen inflammation.
- Disrupt newly placed filler while it integrates.
- Cause unevenness if rubbed in too vigorously.
We ask patients to avoid applying anything to their lips during the first few days except for a thin layer of antibiotic ointment provided. This protects the treatment area while allowing close monitoring of your response.
After 2-3 days, your provider will assess your healing and may clear you to start using lip balms sparingly 1-2 times per day. We recommend choosing a gentle, nourishing formula free of potential irritants. Avoid thick, waxy balms that can drag on the delicate tissue. Always apply lightly using clean fingers rather than directly from the tube.
Continue using lip products conservatively as swelling subsides over the first 7-14 days post-treatment. Avoid rubbing or massaging balms to prevent filler displacement. Follow all your provider’s guidelines for protecting results during the full recovery period.
Can I put chapstick on after lip fillers?
Refrain from using any chapsticks, balms or ointments for at least 72 hours after your lip filler appointment. This allows time for new filler to integrate properly. Later your injector may approve applying a mild lip balm conservatively as your lips heal.
How long after lip filler can I eat?
Avoid chewing movements for 24-48 hours after getting lip fillers. Then slowly add in soft, cool foods. Most patients can resume a normal diet after 5-7 days. But avoid very hot or spicy foods for 2 weeks. Ask your provider for personalized diet guidelines.
Tips for Choosing a Lip Balm After Injections
The ingredients and formula of your lip balm matter after getting lip fillers. We recommend selecting products that:
- Are fragrance-free, chemical-free and non-comedogenic.
- Contain skin-soothing ingredients like aloe, shea butter, vitamin E.
- Provide broad spectrum SPF 30+ sun protection.
- Have a lightweight, emollient consistency (not thick and waxy).
- Come in a squeeze tube or rollerball applicator (no finger application from a pot).
Avoid minty, tingly, or plumping lip balms as these can further irritate freshly injected lips. Always check with your provider before trying any new skin care products following treatment.
We also don’t recommend glossy lipsticks, longwear lip colors, or liquid lipsticks until at least 2 weeks post-injections when swelling is minimized. These can tug on delicate skin and get messy in the crevices around injection sites. Light lip stains, glosses, and creamy lipsticks are gentler options once your provider approves.
Applying Lip Balm Properly After Filler
When your injector clears you to start using lip balms after your lip fillers, follow these tips for proper application:
- Always start by washing your hands thoroughly.
- Use a cotton swab or Q-tip if needed to gently exfoliate any flakiness or dryness first. Avoid scrubbing.
- Select a nourishing, fragrance-free balm and apply a very light layer using your clean fingers.
- Blot rather than rub the balm in. No vigorous massage motions.
- Apply balm just 1-2 times daily maximum to avoid irritating the area.
- Reapply balm after eating/drinking, but keep use minimal.
- Ensure balm won’t interfere with any ointments or medications provided.
- Avoid getting balm inside your mouth or licking your lips as they heal.
- Check for redness, itching, worsening swelling or other signs of reaction.
- Ask your provider before trying any new lip products.
Avoid applying lip colors, stains, scrubs, masks or overnight treatments until your injector fully clears you post-recovery. Any lip balm use should be conservative and gentle initially.
Other Tips for Protecting Lip Fillers
In addition to being careful with lip products, we advise the following tips after getting lip injections:
- Drink lots of water and eat a vitamin-rich diet to nourish skin.
- Take acetaminophen only for discomfort; avoid blood thinners like NSAIDs.
- Sleep elevated on your back with extra pillows to reduce swelling.
- Wear a broad spectrum SPF 30+ lip balm or gloss daily.
- Avoid direct sun exposure which can degrade fillers.
- Quit smoking if possible which impairs circulation and healing.
- Skip steam rooms, saunas, and hot tubs which can worsen swelling.
- Go easy on exercise, especially strenuous cardio which raises blood pressure.
- Refrain from massaging or manipulating lips which can displace filler.
- Avoid straws, kissing, emoji-like expressions, dental work, and other lip movements.
Follow all aftercare instructions from your provider closely during the 2-4 week recovery period. Then you can gradually return to your normal lip care routine!
If you have any other questions about lip balms, ointments, cosmetics or skin care after getting lip fillers, don’t hesitate to contact Bellava MedAesthetics & Plastic Surgery Center today.
FAQs About Lip Balms and Fillers
Below we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about using lip balms and related products after lip injections:
Can I put lip balm on after lip fillers?
Wait at least 48 hours after lip filler injections before applying any lip balms or ointments. Your provider will advise you on gently introducing a nourishing, fragrance-free balm once initial swelling subsides, usually within 3-5 days. Use sparingly at first.
When can I put lip balm on after lip fillers?
Avoid applying lip balms or cosmetics for 2-3 days after getting lip fillers to allow proper healing. Once swelling diminishes, your provider may approve gentle use of a mild lip balm 1-2 times per day. Follow their guidelines closely for your situation.
Can I use lip balm after fillers?
We recommend no lip balm for 48 hours after getting lip fillers to avoid irritating the area. Once your provider clears you, you may apply a gentle, nourishing balm sparingly 1-2 times daily. Avoid rubbing it in vigorously or using heavily waxy formulas.
When can I use chapstick after lip filler?
Avoid applying chapstick or lip balms for 2-3 days after getting lip fillers. After your follow-up, your provider may approve gently applying a light, fragrance-free balm once swelling diminishes. Use sparingly just 1-2 times daily at first.
Can you use chapstick after lip fillers?
We recommend no chapstick or lip balm use immediately after getting lip fillers to avoid irritation and infection risk. After 2-3 days, your injector may clear you to use a gentle, nourishing balm conservatively 1-2 times a day as your lips heal.
When can I wear lip balm after filler?
Plan to go without lip balm for at least 48-72 hours after your lip filler appointment. Once swelling decreases, your provider may approve limited use of a gentle lip balm applied lightly with clean fingers 1-2 times daily. Avoid rubbing it in.
Can I wear chapstick after lip filler?
You’ll need to skip the chapstick for 2-3 days after getting lip fillers. Once your provider clears you, you may apply a mild, fragrance-free balm sparingly after swelling diminishes. Avoid rubbing it in vigorously or using waxy, medicated formulas.
Can you wear lip balm after lip fillers?
Hold off on wearing lip balms or ointments for the first 48 hours following lip filler injections. As your lips heal, your injector may approve wearing a gentle moisturizing balm applied minimally 1-2 times per day using clean hands.
What can I eat after lip filler?
Stick to cool, soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and ice pops for a few days after lip injections. Then gradually reintroduce room temperature foods of various textures. Avoid spicy, salty, citrusy, or crunchy foods and very hot drinks which can irritate treated areas.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any other questions about lip balms, eating, medications, or aftercare following your lip enhancement treatment!
