Can You Exercise After Botox?
Key takeaways:
Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) is a popular cosmetic treatment for wrinkles and fine lines. The injectable is also FDA-approved to treat migraines and excessive sweating.
Experts recommend waiting at least 2 hours after a Botox injection to exercise. Many suggest waiting longer –– around 24 hours –– to avoid complications.
Exercising too soon after Botox can cause bruising and swelling. It may also make the treatment less effective if Botox migrates to other areas.
Many people have added Botox injections to their beauty and wellness routines. Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for facial wrinkles in the U.S. It’s also an FDA-approved treatment for 12 medical conditions, including migraines and excessive sweating.
Botox is a minimally invasive procedure. Still, some factors can affect your results. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions. One standard precaution involves waiting to exercise. If you’re new to the procedure, you may wonder: When can you exercise after Botox? Find out what the experts say.
Why do you have to wait to exercise after Botox?
There may be downsides to exercising too soon after Botox. Here are a few reasons to hold off on your workout.
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Bruising and swelling
Bruising and swelling at the injection site are common side effects of Botox. Increased blood flow during exercise could make bruising or swelling more likely. It can also worsen an existing bruise after Botox.
Deniz Sarhaddi, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Chesterfield, Missouri said that if she thinks her patient is going to get a bruise, she’ll ask them to keep their heart rate and blood pressure down for 24 hours to minimize bruising.
Botox migration
Exercise can trigger Botox migration, which is when it travels away from your injection site, said Aaron Gilson, DO, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Portland, Oregon.
Botox contains onabotulinumtoxinA. This complex protein blocks nerve signals to the targeted muscle, which temporarily prevents your muscle from moving. If the toxin moves to an unintended area, it may impact other muscles. This can lead to short-term weakness or drooping in those spots. For example, if a Botox treatment on the forehead migrates, it could cause a droopy eyelid or eyebrow.
In rare cases, Botox can travel to certain parts of your body and cause serious problems such as difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Less effective results
If Botox migrates away from the injection site, it could make the treatment less effective.
Real versus fake Botox: Some people have received counterfeit Botox injections that have severe side effects. Find out how to tell the difference between real and fake Botox.
How much does Botox cost? It depends on several factors, including how many units you get. Here’s what you need to know about how much Botox costs.
How to get Botox covered by insurance: Insurance providers may cover Botox for medical reasons. Learn the best way to get Botox covered by insurance.
Some research also suggests that high levels of exercise can make Botox wear off faster. A small study of 60 women found that those who exercised the most saw the shortest effects from Botox compared to those with low to moderate activity levels. The study authors say these effects may be because exercise makes muscles contract. But more research is needed.
How long after Botox can you work out?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends waiting 2 hours after a Botox injection to exercise or do other strenuous physical activities. But some cosmetic clinics suggest waiting at least 24 hours before exercising. "Some evidence suggests it can take about 90 minutes for the toxin to bind to the muscle receptors," said Dr. Sarhaddi.
It’s best to follow a healthcare professional’s aftercare instructions. They can make recommendations based on your needs after Botox.
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Tips for returning to exercise after Botox
Consider the following safety tips when you’re ready to work out after Botox.
Don’t put direct pressure on the injection site
Putting direct pressure on the Botox injection site –– such as wiping away sweat or massaging the area –– may make the ingredients travel, said Sarhaddi. Activities such as cycling and swimming call for gear that puts pressure on common injection spots like your forehead. This can make the treatment less effective. Avoid putting pressure on the injection area for at least 24 hours.
Avoid exercises that involve lying down
Experts often recommend staying upright for at least three hours after a Botox injection. This may prevent Botox from migrating to other areas. Avoid exercises –– such as crunches, glute bridges, and planks –– that involve lying face up or down.
Follow a healthcare professional’s aftercare instructions
A healthcare professional will share dos and don’ts after your Botox treatment. These instructions will help you stay safe and get the best results. They can also answer any specific questions you may have. Be sure to follow their advice for exercising after Botox.
Listen to your body
Some people experience headaches, nausea, and other symptoms after Botox.
"Some people have adverse reactions to injections in general, such as during routine vaccinations," said Dr. Gilson. Strenuous activities like running, weightlifting, and high-intensity interval training can make these symptoms more likely.
If you don’t react well to injections, you may want to avoid intense exercise for at least 24 hours. Or, you can cut your workout short if you develop symptoms.
The bottom line
Experts suggest waiting anywhere from 2 to 24 hours after a Botox injection before exercise. Exercising too soon may cause bruising, swelling, and less effective results. Also, avoid placing direct pressure on the injection sites, doing exercises that involve lying down, and engaging in intense activities immediately after your procedure. Remember, it’s best to follow a healthcare professional’s aftercare instructions.
Why trust our experts?
References
Allergan, Inc. (2021). Botox Cosmetic-onabotulinumtoxina injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution [package insert].
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Botulinum toxin therapy: FAQs.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.). What should I expect during my recovery after botulinum toxin injections?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2023). 2022 ASPS: Procedural statistics release.
Massachusetts General Hospital. (n.d.). Botox and cosmetic fillers: Aftercare instructions.
Morhy, O. N., et al. (2023.) High levels of physical activity reduce the esthetic durability of botulinum toxin type A: A controlled single-blind clinical trial. Toxins.
