Is it fine for me to go tanning in a tanning bed after Botox or is there a certain amount of time I should wait before going?

Question

I went tanning after i did botox and i’m afraid i might have made a mistake. The area where i got botox shots is swollen. Is that normal? i’ve been using cold compressions to help it go away but it seems as if every time i go tanning, the area becomes swollen all over again.

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

While tanning beds are discouraged for numerous reasons, there is no relationship between botox and tanning beds. Spray on tans produce the same or better results than tanning salons so you might want to consider a spray tan. I have tried them and I have been completely satisfied!

Vasileios Pagkalos, MD, MSc, PhD · Answer

Although you should definitely avoid tanning beds, botox injection could rarely lead to swelling. The condition could last from a couple of hours to a couple of weeks. Cold compressions can temporarily suppress the swelling, whereas rising temperature of the skin during tanning-bed session could re-induce it. You should consult your doctor if the swelling persists.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There can be some swelling after injections, which can last 1-2 weeks. However, I don't recommend using tanning beds, because of the skin cancer risk. Best, Dr. Emer

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  In most cases it is fine to go to a tanning bed as it relates to Botox administration after a couple of hours.  That said the risks of a tanning bed are significant so you should try and refrain from this habit.  Best wishes.

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

Some injection site swelling is normal the first few hours after Botox/Dysport treatment. I do not think this was caused by the tanning bed although I would avoid tanning beds for other reasons (skin cancer and premature aging).

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There is sometimes minor swelling from Botox, but this usually resolves within an hour or two.  Tanning beds are not recommended at any time and can cause premature aging.  If the swelling persists, return to your injector for an evaluation.

Melvin Elson, MD · Answer

I am glad you asked as it has nothing to do with Botox but tanning beds are never safe. They wrinkle the skin much faster than the sun, contribute to the development of malignant melanoma and decrease your ability to fight infections as well as cause cataracts. Just stay away from them--they are shaped like a cofffin for a reason

Jo Herzog, MD · Answer

You should ot lie down for four hours after Botox. Other than that it has nothing to do with going to tanning bed but you should NEVER go to tanning bed. If you don't think that cancer will happen to you then maybe you can worry about wrinkles. The tanning bed is dangerous as far as cancer goes and will also age your skin prematurely. You can look like peaches and cream at 50 or like a raisin-your choice.

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Tanning shouldn’t effect the Botox injected. But if you go tanning right after the injection, the sweat may seep in the injection sites and cause some irritation and/ or infection. Wait a few hours...or better yet try tanning creams that won’t have the skin cancer risks.
Best. Dr Brecht

Is it fine for me to go tanning in a tanning bed after Botox or is there a certain amount of time I should wait before going?

Answers (9)

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