Arnica Instructions Before Getting Fillers

Dermal fillers are some of the quickest, most effective anti-aging products on the market.  They instantly soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles, restoring your youthful radiance with little to no downtime required. Although certain formulas may take a couple of weeks to settle, and others continue to improve results for months, dermal fillers can do more to get you ready for an upcoming event than just about any other minimally invasive lunchtime procedure. Still, it’s best not to schedule your filler injections too close to a special occasion because bruising does sometimes occur.  If you know you’re prone to bruising or you plan to take your chance on a last-minute appointment, arnica treatment may help you heal quickly and minimize your bruising. 

What is arnica and how does it work?

Arnica montana is an herbaceous plant in the sunflower family. Because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, arnica has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Arnica treatment is often topical—creams, ointments, tinctures, and gels—but it can also be found in pills, injectables, and homeopathic pellets that are dissolved under the tongue. 

Arnica is used to treat muscle and joint aches and pains, swelling, bruising, sprains, insect bites, burns, and other conditions involving certain types of pain and inflammation.  Arnica should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is not meant for open wounds, and it can be dangerous when ingested in undiluted forms. 

Treatment with arnica is said to encourage the body’s natural healing process.  When applied topically, it works by increasing blood flow through the affected capillaries, thereby reducing swelling, relieving pressure on the nerve endings, and decreasing stiffness. When taken homeopathically, Arnica’s special properties can help ease pain, decrease inflammation, and promote healing. 

How to use arnica for bruising from dermal fillers

 Arnica works as both a preventative measure and a post-procedural treatment. When using arnica to minimize bruising associated with dermal fillers, it’s best to take a dual approach. But before you run out and buy arnica for a DIY treatment, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They’ll be able to help guide you toward the highest quality formulas and instruct you on their usage to ensure optimal safety and effectiveness. In the meantime, here’s an idea of how arnica treatment can be used for bruising from dermal fillers:

Bruise prevention 

Oral Arnica (pills) or sublingual tablets 3 to 5 times per day for a few days prior to treatment can help prepare your body for minimal bruising and faster healing. 

Bruise treatment

Applying a thin layer of arnica ointment on the affected area 3 times per day can help clear up bruising within a few days.   

If you follow your practitioner’s instructions regarding the use of arnica before and after treatment, you’ll increase your chances of a rapid and smooth healing process. 

Other tips and tricks for minimizing bruising from injectable fillers

In addition to instructions for arnica treatment, your healthcare practitioner may give you a list of additional instructions aimed at keeping your bruising to a minimum. These instructions may include:

  • Stop taking aspirin, NSAIDs, and other blood-thinning medications and supplements for two weeks prior to treatment

  • Avoid alcohol for a couple of days before and after treatment

  • Use ice and cold packs following treatment 

  • Refrain from vigorous exercise for 48 hours after treatment

Remember, everyone is different. Some people don’t bruise at all after dermal fillers, while others experience some bruising no matter how well they prepare. If you’re new to dermal fillers and aren’t yet sure how your body will respond, be sure to schedule your appointment with ample time to heal before your big event. Even if you do tend to bruise, it shouldn’t last long if you follow all of the instructions provided to you by your practitioner. 

Refresh your appearance and restore your youthful radiance

Siti Med Spa is San Diego’s leading medical spa in advanced anti-aging procedures. We offer a wide range of FDA-approved cosmetic medical treatments designed to help you look and feel youthful and radiant. In addition to providing our clients with clear pre- and post-procedural instructions, our skilled and experienced practitioners use up-to-date technology and the highest quality products in order to ensure the best possible results. For more information about our treatments and services, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today. 

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