How do you properly clean lips after lip filler?

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin - Winnetka & Chicago. This is a great question. It's important to follow proper aftercare to ensure smooth healing and optimal results. To clean your lips, gently wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth or use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser if needed—avoiding any scrubbing or pressure. Avoid applying makeup or any strong skincare products to the lips for at least 24 hours post-treatment. It's also best to avoid touching or massaging the lips unless instructed. Keeping the area clean, avoiding excessive heat or sun exposure, and staying hydrated will help promote healing and minimize the risk of infection or irritation. If there's any swelling or tenderness, using a cold compress (wrapped in a clean cloth) can provide relief without disturbing the treated area. I hope this helps and best of luck!

You can gently clean the lips with unscented soap and water after treatment. A light application of Aquafor can keep them moist. You can speak with your injector if antibiotic ointment is recommended for you. Harsh chemicals such as alcohols or astringents may be too drying and irritating when lips are first treated.

When caring for your lips after receiving fillers, it is important to maintain cleanliness while avoiding irritation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help ensure proper care:

Gentle Cleansing: Use a gentle, non-alcoholic cleanser to clean your lips. Opt for a mild, fragrance-free facial cleanser and apply it gently with a soft, damp cloth or cotton pad. Avoid vigorous rubbing to prevent irritation.

Avoid Alcohol-Based Products: Alcohol can be too harsh on the sensitive skin of your lips post-filler. Instead, consider using a mild astringent like alcohol-free witch hazel to gently cleanse the area if needed.

Moisturization: Keep your lips moisturized to prevent dryness and cracking, which can increase the risk of infection. Use a gentle, unscented lip balm or ointment, ideally one recommended by your healthcare provider.

Eating and Drinking: After eating, gently dab your lips with a soft, damp cloth or tissue to remove any food particles. Avoid using napkins or tissues that might leave fibers on your lips.

Avoid Touching: Minimize touching your lips with your hands to prevent bacterial transfer. If you need to touch your lips, ensure your hands are clean.

Oral Hygiene: Be gentle around the lip area when brushing your teeth. Consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the lips.

Monitoring for Signs of Infection: Stay alert for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. Seek medical advice promptly if any of these symptoms occur.

By following these steps, you can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing after having lip fillers.