Reduce Bruising from Injectables: Prevention and Healing Tips

Why Does Bruising Happen After Aesthetic Injections?

Bruising after injectable treatments is a common, expected and natural response. The face is so vascular (see image below) that it is not possible to avoid all the capillaries during treatment, especially as many of them lie so close to the surface. Bruising occurs when a needle disrupts these tiny blood vessels under the skin, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissue. This can lead to visible discolouration, especially in delicate areas like the lips, cheeks, and under-eyes.

At Fresh Aesthetics in Portadown, all injectables are performed by Dr Jayne & Dr Brian, highly experienced medical aesthetics doctors. Their advanced techniques, anatomical precision, and gentle approach significantly reduce the likelihood of bruising. However, individual factors like skin type, medications, and lifestyle choices can still influence the outcome.

How to Prevent Bruising Before Fillers or Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Reducing the chance of bruising starts well before your appointment. Here are clinically recommended strategies:

Avoid Blood Thinners (If Safe to Do So)

Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba for 3–5 days pre-treatment — but only if medically safe. Always consult your GP before pausing any medication.

Avoid Alcohol for 24–48 Hours

Alcohol can dilate blood vessels and increase the risk of bruising. Skipping alcohol before and after treatment helps minimise this risk.

Book with Timing in Mind

Allow at least two weeks between your injectable appointment and any big social events to give your skin time to fully recover.

Consider Taking Arnica

Arnica montana is a natural supplement thought to help minimise bruising. Start a few days before treatment and continue afterwards if desired.

Post-Treatment Tips: How to Help Bruising Heal Faster

Aftercare is just as important as preparation. At Fresh Aesthetics, we’ll guide you through every step. These evidence-based tips support faster healing:

Apply Cold Compresses (Initially)

Use a clean, cloth-wrapped cold pack for 10 minutes at a time in the first few hours after treatment to constrict blood vessels and limit bruising.

Keep Your Head Elevated

Stay upright and avoid lying flat in the hours after treatment. This reduces facial blood flow and swelling.

Avoid Vigorous Exercise

Skip intense workouts for 24–48 hours to prevent increased circulation that can worsen bruising.

Avoid Saunas and Heat (Initially)

Heat dilates blood vessels, so avoid saunas, hot baths, and steam rooms for at least two days after your procedure.

Use Topical Arnica or Vitamin K Cream

These may help strengthen blood vessels and support the skin’s healing process.

Switching from Cold to Warm Compresses for Better Healing

Once a bruise has fully formed (typically after 48 hours), switch from cold to warm compresses. Applying gentle heat increases local circulation, helping your body break down and reabsorb the pigment (haemoglobin) more efficiently, which speeds up fading.

How to Safely Cover Bruises After Aesthetic Treatments

While most bruises fade within a few days, we understand the desire to cover them while they heal. Here’s how to do it safely:

Wait at Least 24 Hours Before Applying Makeup

To reduce infection risk, avoid makeup for the first day post-treatment.

Prep with Skincare

Cleanse with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and apply a lightweight moisturiser to ensure a smooth canvas.

Use a Colour Corrector

• Orange/peach corrector: for blue/purple bruises

• Yellow corrector: for red bruises

• Green corrector: for any residual redness

Apply Full-Coverage Concealer

Choose a long-wear concealer one shade lighter than your skin. Pat gently over the bruise and blend carefully.

Set with Translucent Powder

Use a light touch to set the makeup and prevent transfer.

Choose Skin-Friendly Products

Avoid heavy, fragranced, or occlusive makeup. Mineral-based formulas are ideal during the healing process.

Expert Aftercare at Fresh Aesthetics in Portadown

At Fresh Aesthetics, patient care doesn't end when your treatment does. From personalised aftercare plans to product recommendations, we’re here to support your recovery and results. With medical-grade techniques and extensive experience, our injectors ensure your treatment journey is as comfortable and confident as possible.

Whether you're in Portadown, Craigavon, Lurgan or the wider Northern Ireland area, trust Fresh Aesthetics to deliver safe, effective treatments with expert care.