How to Sleep After Dermal Fillers: The Do’s & Don’ts

Did you know that tossing and turning after dermal fillers can mess up your face? 

Dermal fillers are injected into specific areas of the face to add volume, smooth wrinkles, or enhance features. However, after the injection, the filler material is initially malleable and can be influenced by external pressure.

When you sleep incorrectly, such as resting on your face or side, the pressure exerted on the treated areas can cause the filler to shift or migrate from its intended position. This displacement can lead to uneven distribution of the filler, distortion of facial contours, or even premature absorption of the product.

To avoid these issues, it’s essential to follow proper sleeping techniques, which we will discuss in detail in this blog.

Table of Contents:

Side Effects of Incorrect Aftercare Post Filler Injections

After getting your dermal fillers done, sticking to the aftercare guidelines is key for getting the best results and avoiding any hiccups along the way. A comprehensive scientific review in the Journal of Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology emphasizes how preventive measures after dermal filler procedures can help avoid adverse complications, including those mentioned below. 

• Asymmetry: Uneven results can occur if the filler migrates due to improper sleeping positions or touching the treated area excessively.
• Swelling and bruising: These are common temporary side effects, but incorrect aftercare like strenuous activity or applying ice directly can worsen them.
• Prolonged redness: Irritation that persists beyond a few days might indicate infection or improper injection technique.
• Increased risk of infection: Not following sterile practices during aftercare, like touching the treated area with unwashed hands, can introduce bacteria.
• Pressure marks: Sleeping on your face can compress the filler, leaving temporary indentations.
• Displacement of filler: Movement or rubbing the treated area can cause the filler to migrate from its intended location.
• Skin indentations: Improper injection technique or trauma to the area after injection can lead to permanent depressions in the skin.
• Delayed healing: Incorrect aftercare can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
• Accentuation of fine lines: Filler can settle in a way that highlights pre-existing wrinkles, especially with poor injection technique or aftercare.
• Temporary numbness: This is a normal side effect that usually resolves within a few days, but prolonged numbness might indicate nerve damage.
  

Tips for Sleeping After Dermal Fillers Placement

Getting dermal fillers is exciting, but ensuring they settle perfectly is crucial for flawless results. How you sleep post-treatment can make all the difference. Here are some expert tips to help you rest easy and optimize your filler placement.

1. Sleep with Your Head Elevated

Elevating your head while sleeping can significantly benefit your post-dermal filler recovery. Here’s why:

• Reduced Swelling: When you sleep with your head slightly elevated, it helps drain excess fluid away from the treated areas. This can minimize swelling and promote faster healing.

• Less Pressure on Treated Areas: By using extra pillows or a wedge pillow, you create an angle that reduces direct pressure on the filler sites. This prevents unnecessary movement or displacement of the product during sleep.

2. Use a Soft Hypoallergenic Pillow to Avoid Pressure

After dermal fillers, even the subtlest pressure on your face can potentially disrupt the placement of the product. To minimize this risk, swap your regular pillow for a soft, hypoallergenic one. Choose from our selection of the best hypoallergenic pillows. 

Here’s why a soft hypoallergenic pillow is ideal:

• Conforms to Your Head Shape: A soft pillow gently cradles your head and neck, reducing concentrated pressure points on the treated areas.

• Minimizes Discomfort: Softness provides better overall comfort and pressure relief, promoting more restful sleep.

• Reduced Allergen Exposure: Opting for a hypoallergenic pillow minimizes exposure to dust mites, mold, and other allergens that can trigger allergies or worsen existing ones, especially during the healing process when your skin might be more sensitive.

Tip: Look for pillows with a zippered cover that you can easily remove and wash regularly to maintain cleanliness and reduce allergen build-up.

3. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial throughout the healing process after dermal fillers. Water helps your body eliminate waste products and toxins, promoting overall health and skin recovery. Adequate hydration promotes healthy blood circulation, which is essential for delivering nutrients to the treated area and optimizing the healing process.

Dehydration can make skin appear dull and worsen wrinkles. Drinking plenty of water plumps your skin cells, giving it a healthy glow and aiding in the recovery of the delicate tissues around the filler sites.

4. Consider Sleeping Alone After Filler Injection

It’s wise to consider catching your Z’s solo for the initial nights following your filler injection. Why? Well, sleeping alone helps dodge any inadvertent pressure from a partner, which could potentially disrupt your filler’s placement and lead to unwanted swelling. 

Think about it: when you’re in a starfish sleeping position, you want to ensure your filler settles undisturbed. So, for a smoother recovery and optimal results, opting for solo slumber is a smart move. It’s a small adjustment that can make a big difference in your post-filler journey.

5. Use Clean Bedding

Don’t underestimate the power of clean bedding, especially after your filler treatment. It’s all about minimizing the risk of infection and ensuring your skin stays happy and healthy. 

Swap out those pillowcases and sheets for fresh, clean ones right after your appointment. By doing so, you create a pristine sleeping environment that promotes proper healing and reduces the chances of any pesky infections sneaking in. So, make it a priority to snuggle up in clean sheets—it’s a simple yet effective step in your post-filler care routine that your skin will thank you for.

6. Extra Care for Lip Filler

If you’ve recently had lip fillers, it’s essential to take extra precautions to protect your newly enhanced pout. Consider using a travel pillow designed specifically for neck support. One such option is the Derila pillow, for its advanced design. Not only is this cervical pillow comfy and supportive, but it’s also conveniently small enough to double as a travel buddy.

Place the travel pillow around your neck to maintain a stable sleeping position. This helps prevent accidental pressure on your lips while you sleep. Avoid rolling onto your face, as this could displace the filler.

7. Follow Your Practitioner’s Aftercare Instructions

Your doctor is your partner in achieving the best possible results. Always adhere to their specific aftercare instructions following your dermal filler treatment. These instructions may include additional details about:

• Activity restrictions: Certain activities that increase blood flow or put strain on the face might be temporarily restricted.

• Sun protection: Sun exposure can worsen swelling and irritate the treated area. Be sure to diligently use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.

• Makeup application: For the first 24-48 hours after treatment, it’s best to avoid applying makeup to the treated area.

By following your doctor’s personalized aftercare plan, you can optimize your healing process and minimize the risk of complications.

8. Special Considerations for Botox and Fillers Combo

If you received a combination treatment of Botox and dermal fillers, there might be some additional considerations for sleeping. Botox works by temporarily relaxing muscles. While good for minimizing wrinkles, it can also limit facial movement during sleep. This might make it more challenging to maintain a strict “back-sleeping” position all night.

Here are some adjustments you can try:

• Use a rolled towel: Place a rolled towel on either side of your body to create a gentle barrier that discourages rolling onto your stomach or side.

• Consider a Wedge Pillow: A wedge pillow can help keep your head elevated and make back sleeping more comfortable.

Communicate any concerns you have about maintaining proper sleep positions with your doctor. They can offer personalized advice based on your specific treatment and goals.

How NOT to Sleep With Dermal Fillers

Taking certain preventive measures and being mindful of how you sleep is vital for preserving the integrity of your dermal fillers. Here’s a quick rundown of how not to sleep post-treatment to ensure your results stay flawless.

1. Avoid Sleeping on Your Face

This might seem obvious, but it’s a common culprit for filler displacement and uneven swelling. Sleeping face-down puts pressure on the treated areas, potentially pushing the filler out of place. If you’re a habitual stomach sleeper, it might take some retraining. Here are some tips:

• Use rolled-up towels: Place a rolled towel on either side of your body to create a physical barrier that discourages rolling onto your stomach.

• Invest in a back-sleeping pillow: These pillows are designed to encourage proper head and neck alignment, making back-sleeping more comfortable.

• Enlist a sleep buddy: Ask a partner or trusted friend to gently nudge you back onto your back if they see you rolling over.

2. Don’t Engage in Strenuous Exercise

While exercise is generally good for health, strenuous activity shortly after dermal fillers can be counterproductive. Increased blood flow to the face can worsen swelling and bruising. Opt for gentle activities like walking or yoga in the first few days after treatment.

3. Avoid Alcohol and Salty Foods Before Bed

After dermal fillers, alcohol is a double whammy. It dehydrates the body, which can worsen swelling, and can also interfere with the healing process. Similarly, salty foods can lead to fluid retention and puffiness. Opt for water and avoid overly salty snacks before bed.

4. Minimize Facial Movements

During the initial healing phase, excessive facial movements like constant talking, laughing, or chewing can disrupt the settling of the fillers. This might lead to product migration or uneven results. Be mindful of your facial expressions, especially in the first few days after treatment, to ensure the longevity of the dermal fillers.

5. Don’t Use Heavy Creams or Masks Overnight

While some skincare products are beneficial, heavy creams and masks can be too much for your skin after dermal fillers. These products can put pressure on the treated areas and potentially cause irritation or disrupt the healing process. Stick to your regular gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and avoid any new products until your skin recovers.

6. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Extreme temperatures can be harsh on recently treated skin. Skip the very hot showers or saunas, and avoid using ice packs directly on the treated areas. These extremes can exacerbate swelling and interfere with the natural healing process.

7. Pay Attention to Botox Treatment Areas

If you received a combination treatment of Botox and fillers, be extra mindful of areas treated with Botox. Sleeping on these areas can affect the settling of the product and might lead to uneven results. Discuss specific precautions with your doctor, especially regarding sleep positions, if you’ve received Botox alongside fillers.

Additional Tips for Optimal Recovery After Fillers

Following these additional tips can further optimize your recovery after dermal fillers and ensure a smooth journey to your desired results:

1. Keep the Skin Clean and Moisturized

A clean and healthy canvas is essential for optimal healing. Gently cleanse your face twice daily with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs or products with irritating ingredients.

Dehydration can make your skin appear dull and potentially worsen swelling. Regularly applying a fragrance-free moisturizer helps your skin retain moisture, promoting overall healing and enhancing the plumping effects of the fillers. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin for optimal hydration.

2. Monitor for Adverse Reactions

While some minor swelling and redness are common after fillers, be mindful of potential adverse reactions. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Excessive swelling that persists for several days

• Intense redness or bruising

• Sharp pain or tenderness at the injection site

• Signs of infection, such as fever or pus

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your doctor immediately.

3. Schedule a Follow-Up  Treatment Appointment

Most doctors recommend a follow-up appointment 2-4 weeks after your initial filler treatment. This allows your doctor to assess the healing process, check for any concerns you might have, and potentially make adjustments for optimal results.

4. Practice Gentle Facial Massage

In some cases, your doctor might recommend gentle facial massage to promote blood circulation and lymphatic drainage after fillers. This can help release facial tension, reduce swelling and expedite recovery.

Here’s how to perform a gentle facial massage:

1. Apply a small amount of moisturizer to your face.

2. Using light pressure, gently massage your face in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outwards towards your temples and hairline.

3. Avoid applying pressure directly to the treated areas.

4. Repeat this process for a few minutes, focusing on areas that might feel congested or swollen.

Special tips on How to Sleep after Botox

After receiving Botox injections, it’s crucial to take special care when it comes to sleep. Avoid sleeping on your side for at least the first four hours post-treatment to ensure the Botox remains in the intended area. After this initial period, gently lying on your side is generally safe, but it’s best to consult with your provider for personalized advice. 

To safeguard the effectiveness of your Botox, refrain from rubbing or applying pressure to the treated areas immediately after the procedure. Wait until any swelling or redness subsides before engaging in safe facial exercises after Botox, which can help enhance results without compromising the treatment’s efficacy. 

By following these guidelines, you’ll optimize your post-Botox sleep routine and promote optimal results.

Summarizing Sleep After Dermal Fillers

Proper post-treatment care after receiving dermal fillers is crucial for achieving optimal results and maintaining skin health. Key do’s include sleeping with your head elevated to reduce swelling, avoiding pressure on treated areas, and using clean bedding to minimize infection risks. 

Avoid sleeping on your face, engaging in strenuous exercise, consuming alcohol or salty foods before bed, and using heavy creams or masks overnight. By following these guidelines, you give your skin the opportunity to settle and ensure smooth, natural-looking results that last.