What to Do If You Experience Bruising After Fillers

Dermal fillers are a fantastic way to enhance facial contours, restore volume, and smooth out wrinkles without surgery. But if you’ve noticed bruising after fillers, you’re not alone! Bruising is a common side effect, but the good news is that it’s temporary and manageable with the right post-filler aftercare. Knowing what causes bruising, how to prevent it, and the best ways to speed up healing will help you get the best results from your treatment. Let’s break it all down, from pre-treatment tips to long-term strategies.

Why Does Bruising Happen After Fillers?

How Fillers Work

Dermal fillers are injected under the skin to add volume, smooth wrinkles, or enhance facial features. Even with a skilled injector, the process involves tiny needles or cannulas, which can accidentally puncture small blood vessels. When that happens, you might see some bruising—it’s just your body’s natural response to healing the minor trauma from the injection.

Common Causes of Bruising

Some people bruise more easily than others, and several factors can increase the likelihood of bruising, such as:

• Needle insertion – Even the smallest needles can break tiny blood vessels.
• Personal factors – Skin type, age, and general health all play a role.
• Medications & supplements – Blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen, omega-3s, and vitamin E can make bruising more likely.
• Lifestyle habits – Drinking alcohol or caffeine before your treatment can increase bruising risk.
• Injection technique – Some areas or deeper injections may lead to more noticeable bruising.

Where Is Bruising Most Common?

Certain areas of the face are more prone to bruising:

• Lips – Because they have so many blood vessels.
• Under-eye area – The skin here is delicate and thin.
• Cheeks – Bruising can happen when fillers are placed deeper.
• Nasolabial folds – Since this area moves a lot, bruising may last longer.

How Long Does Bruising Last?

Typically, bruises from fillers fade within 5 to 10 days, though deeper bruising might take up to two weeks. If bruising lasts longer or worsens, checking in with your injector is always a good idea. Proper post-filler aftercare can make a big difference in recovery time.

Pre-Filler Preparation: How to Reduce the Risk of Bruising

Medications & Supplements to Avoid

Want to minimize filler bruising? Here’s what to skip at least a week before your appointment:

• Blood thinners like aspirin and ibuprofen
• Omega-3 supplements, vitamin E, and garlic supplements
• Alcohol and caffeine (avoid them 24-48 hours before treatment)
• Green tea (it has natural blood-thinning properties)

Hydration & Skincare Prep

• Stay hydrated – Healthy skin heals faster.
• Use vitamin K and arnica for bruising prevention.
• Follow pre-treatment skincare recommendations.
• Avoid harsh exfoliants right before your appointment.

Choosing an Experienced Injector

The right injector makes all the difference! A skilled professional knows how to minimize trauma and bruising risk. Click here if you want to learn more about how to prepare for filler injections.

Immediate Aftercare: First 24-48 Hours

Cold Compress Application

Using a cold compress post fillers within the first 24 hours is a game-changer. Wrap an ice pack in a soft cloth and apply it for 10-minute intervals every few hours. This helps constrict blood vessels, reducing swelling and bruising.

Activity Restrictions

• Skip the gym – Avoid heavy workouts for at least 24-48 hours.
• Stay cool – Avoid saunas, hot showers, and direct sun exposure.
• Hands off! – Don’t touch, press, or massage the treated area.
• Limit facial expressions – Too much movement can affect the filler.

Elevation & Sleep Position

For the first couple of nights, sleep with your head slightly elevated. This helps reduce swelling and bruising after fillers by preventing fluid from pooling in your face.

What NOT to Do

• No blood-thinning medications (unless prescribed by a doctor).
• Avoid alcohol and smoking – They slow down healing.
• Don’t sleep on your face – Try to sleep on your back.
• Skip makeup for the first 24 hours to avoid irritation and infection.

Speeding Up Bruise Recovery: Expert-Backed Remedies

Topical & Natural Treatments

• Arnica Gel & Bromelain – Arnica reduces bruising, and bromelain (from pineapples) has anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Vitamin K Cream & Aloe Vera – These help with healing and skin repair.
• Pineapple Extract – Eating fresh pineapple may help bruises fade faster.
• LED Light Therapy – Red and blue light therapy can improve circulation and speed healing.

Concealing Bruising with Makeup

If you need to cover up bruising:

• Use green concealers to neutralize redness.
• Yellow/orange tones help hide purple or blue bruises.
• Full-coverage foundation evens out skin tone.
• Setting spray keeps everything in place.

When to Seek Professional Help

Most bruising is harmless, but sometimes it can indicate a problem. Contact your injector if you experience the following:

• Severe swelling or pain lasting more than two weeks.
• Skin discolouration (white or dark patches could indicate a vascular issue).
• Worsening warmth or discomfort over time.
• Lumps or nodules that don’t go away.

Not sure what’s normal? It’s always best to ask! Knowing when to call your injector ensures you stay safe and get the best results.

Long-Term Prevention & Best Practices for Future Treatments

Want to minimize filler bruising next time? Here’s what helps:

• Stick to pre- and post-care tips.
• Choose an experienced injector who uses advanced techniques.
• Plan your appointment well ahead of important events.
• Consider cannula injections for less trauma in sensitive areas.
• Eat a diet rich in vitamins C and K to support skin health.

Thinking about lip fillers? Learn why everyone is raving about this hot lip filler craze.

Get Post-Filler Aftercare Tips From New You

Bruising after fillers is expected, but with the proper post-filler aftercare, you can speed up healing and get back to enjoying your refreshed look in no time. Cold compresses, avoiding blood-thinning medications, and using arnica for bruising all help ensure a smooth recovery.

For expert guidance and personalized aesthetic treatments, schedule a consultation with New You’s professionals today. Whether you need post-treatment care or are ready for your next session, book an appointment now to achieve the best possible results!

New You Cosmetic Centres is Canada’s leader in medical aesthetics and has pioneered some of the nation’s most sought-after treatments and procedures. Our skilled professionals at New You offer more than 30 quality services and lead the industry in laser aesthetics, dermal fillers, lip fillers, non-surgical facelift, body contouring, skin rejuvenation and anti-aging solutions.

With over 15 years of experience, our commitment to delivering quality client care is of the highest importance across our several locations throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Each New You location offers the fullest range of state-of-the-art services for both men and women, including acne treatment for teenagers.

Our dedicated team of medical experts, clinicians, physicians, and customer care executives prides itself on keeping up with the latest market trends and technologies. This ensures they offer our clients the best-tailored services and care.

Searching for your new you? Look no further! Contact us at 844-311-4684 or fill out our convenient online form to learn more about our services.