Can I Wear Lipstick After Lip Filler
Lip fillers are one of the most popular aesthetic treatments at our downtown Bethesda medical spa, giving you a quick and effective way to enhance your lips. But if you're new to the treatment, you probably have questions - especially about what happens afterward. One of the most common questions our patients ask is, "Can I wear lipstick after lip filler?" We get it! You want to show off your new lips. In this blog post, our expert injectors break down everything you need to know about post-filler care, from minimizing swelling to knowing exactly when it’s safe to get back to your usual beauty routine. So, let’s dive in!
What is Lip Filler?
Lip filler is a quick, non-surgical way to enhance your lips - whether you’re looking for more volume, added definition or extra hydration. The most common fillers are made with hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance your body naturally produces to keep skin smooth and hydrated. When injected with precision, lip filler can give you a fuller, more defined pout while still looking natural.
Who is a Good Candidate for Lip Filler?
Lip filler is a great option if you want to:
-Add volume to naturally thin lips
-Restore fullness lost with age
-Improve lip symmetry
-Smooth out fine lines around the mouth (aka “smoker’s lines”)
-Achieve a more hydrated, plump look
If you're in good health and have realistic expectations, chances are you're a great candidate for a lip filler treatment!
Your Most Common Lip Filler Aftercare Questions Answered:
1. “Can I Wear Lipstick After Getting Lip Filler?”
Yes - but not right away.
After your treatment, your lips will likely feel tender, swollen, and possibly bruised. To prevent irritation and reduce the risk of introducing bacteria to the injection sites, it’s best to avoid lipstick, lip liner, or any other lip products for at least 24 hours. Once the swelling goes down, you can resume your normal beauty routine. If you notice lingering sensitivity or irritation, wait a little longer before applying products.
2. “How Long Will My Lips Be Swollen?”
Swelling is completely normal after getting lip filler and typically peaks within the first 24–48 hours. By day three or four, most of the swelling will have subsided, but some residual puffiness can linger for up to a week. Applying a cold compress (without pressing too hard) and staying hydrated can help reduce swelling more quickly.
3. “Can I Drink From a Straw After Lip Filler?”
We would recommend not drinking from a straw for at least 24 - 48 hours. The suction motion from using a straw puts pressure on your lips and may cause uneven filler distribution. Try and stick to drinking from a regular cup during the initial healing period!
4. “How Soon Can I Eat After Lip Filler?”
You can eat soon after getting lip filler, but it's important to take a few precautions. Stick to soft foods for the first few hours to minimize excessive lip movement. Avoid spicy, salty, or hot foods that could irritate the injection sites, and steer clear of crunchy or tough foods that require a lot of chewing. Staying hydrated is also key, so be sure to drink plenty of water to support the healing process.
5. “Is It Normal for My Lips to Feel Lumpy?”
Yes! Mild lumpiness is completely normal as the filler settles. You may feel tiny bumps when pressing your lips together, but these typically smooth out within a week. If you notice persistent lumps beyond two weeks, check in with your injector for an evaluation.
6. “Can I Kiss After Lip Filler?”
As tempting as it may be to test out your newly plumped lips, it’s best to avoid kissing for at least 24 - 48 hours. Kissing puts pressure on the lips and can increase swelling or lead to uneven filler distribution.
7. “Can I Exercise After Lip Filler?”
We recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours after getting lip filler. Elevated heart rate and body temperature can increase swelling and bruising. Once the initial swelling has subsided, you can return to your normal workout routine.
8. “How Can I Minimize Bruising?”
Some bruising is common after lip filler injections, but there are a few things you can do to minimize it. Avoid alcohol, aspirin, and ibuprofen for at least 24 hours before and after your appointment, as these can increase the risk of bruising. Applying arnica gel or taking oral arnica supplements may help reduce swelling and discoloration. Using a cold compress gently on your lips for short intervals can also help, but be careful not to apply too much pressure. Lastly, keeping your head elevated while sleeping can prevent fluid retention and further reduce swelling.
9. “When Will My Lips Feel Normal Again?”
Most patients say their lips feel completely normal within one to two weeks after getting filler. The initial swelling, tenderness, and mild tightness typically resolve within a few days, and the filler integrates naturally into your lips over time!
10. “How Long Does Lip Filler Last?”
The longevity of your lip filler depends on the type of filler used and your individual metabolism. On average, hyaluronic acid fillers last 6–12 months. Factors like smoking, frequent lip movement, and metabolism can affect how quickly your body breaks down the filler. Many patients choose to schedule touch-up treatments every 6–9 months to maintain their results.
11. “What Should I Avoid After Lip Filler?”
To ensure the best healing process, it's important to avoid certain activities for the first 24–48 hours. Refrain from excessive touching or massaging your lips to prevent irritation and uneven filler distribution. Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can slow down healing and increase swelling. Stay away from excessive sun or heat exposure, including hot tubs, saunas, and tanning beds, as heat can worsen inflammation. Try not to sleep on your face to prevent unnecessary pressure on your lips, and avoid taking over-the-counter blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil, as they can increase the risk of bruising.
If you have any questions about your post-treatment care or are considering getting lip filler for the first time, our expert injectors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you're interested in filler, Botox/Dysport, collagen-boosting skin treatments, or want to learn more about our Defy Monthly Facial Membership (a perfect choice for those who want to transform their skin without the price tag over the course of a year!), we’d love to see you in our Bethesda medical spa soon.