Do I need to clean lip product applicators more carefully after getting lip filler?

Question

I want to get lip filler but want to make sure I not only keep my lips clean but also my lip product applicators on my lip gloss and balms. Some have a silicone doughnut applicator and others have a metal applicator and others have a usual lip gloss wand you pull out the tube. So do I wipe the wand off on a napkin after every single time I use it , or do I use soap and water rinse and then wait a while for the wand to dry before inserting back into the tube? I have a busy life so waiting on it to dry isn’t practical. Do I even need to wipe the wand if I don’t share with anyone and my lips are clean? Same for the doughnut silicone applicator and a metal tip applicator. How do I clean these and how often. Again I don’t share with anyone and usually clean my lips with antibacterial soap after I eat and wake up so do I even need to clean these and if so how often and with what products? I am attaching applicator exams plea to my post

James N Long, MD, FACS · Answer

A long as you are the only one using the applicators, there is no need to clean them each time you use them.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hi there,

This is a really thoughtful question, and I appreciate how careful you are being about lip care after fillers—it shows you’re taking your health seriously.

The good news is that if you don’t share your lip products and you’re already keeping your lips clean, you don’t need to be overly meticulous with cleaning applicators every single time you use them. Most glosses and balms are designed with preservatives to help limit bacterial growth inside the tube.

Here are a few practical points:

Right after filler: For the first couple of days, it’s best to avoid using any products directly on the lips to reduce irritation and risk of infection.

After healing: Once your lips are settled, normal use of your glosses and balms is fine. You don’t need to wash or wipe the applicator every time—just make sure your lips are clean before applying.

Cleaning frequency: For extra peace of mind, you could wipe the applicator with a clean tissue every few uses or give it a quick clean weekly if it has a silicone or metal tip.

When to be cautious: If you ever notice redness, swelling, or irritation around your lips, set aside the product until everything is back to normal.

So in short—you don’t need a complicated cleaning routine. As long as your lips are clean and you’re not sharing products, simple, occasional cleaning is more than enough.

Warm regards,
Dr. Anna Chacon

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Do I need to clean lip product applicators more carefully after getting lip filler?

Answers (2)

LIP FILLERS PROVIDERS NEAR YOU