Why is my face covered in blisters after Botox 2 weeks ago and how do I treat them? (Photos)

Question

I got Botox injections on forehead and between eyebrows, two weeks ago. My face is covered in blisters.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Botox itself doesn't cause breakouts. Some causes of breakouts after any needle is injected in the skin are:1. Skin not properly cleaned prior to the injections2. Personal history of eczema through which a needle passed causing a skin infection3. Introduction of makeup into the dermis from a needle injected through insufficiently cleaned skin4. Cross contamination in the bottle of Botox if new sterile needles are not used to draw up the Botox 5. Botox kept too long in between uses6. Botox diluted (it always has to be diluted with a sterile liquid saline as it comes in a powder) with a non sterile saline or liquid other than saline to which the skin is reacting.7. Cold soresOnce in a while, in the practice of medicine, everything may be done perfectly correctly but the result is extremely unusual because of the patient's individual unusual medical condition, immune system abnormalities, metabolic condition and reasons that are not understood. An unusual breakout shown in these photographs need to be brought to the attention of the injector immediately. If it was not a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon I suggest you see such.The information provided in Dr. Shelton's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs. If you are experiencing a medical emergency proceed to your nearest emergency room.

Kyle Coleman, MD · Answer

This appears to be folliculitis (like acne) that could be due to the technique or could be unrelated.    However, given the time course, it seems to be related to the technique.  A topical or oral antibiotic should clear it up quickly.  Follow up with the doctor who performed this to get evaluated.  Best of luck.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

It is most likely a skin infection. The area above the inner aspect of your left eyebrow is particularly suspicious for infection. I would suggest to see your provider as soon as possible for antibiotic treatment.

Hamid Sadri, MD · Answer

It is most likely a skin infection. The area above the inner aspect of your left eyebrow is particularly suspicious for infection. I would suggest to see your provider as soon as possible for antibiotic treatment.

Nicole Kafka, MD · Answer

This appears to be a skin infection, perhaps due to inadequate cleaning of the skin,  injection through existing infection/acne, non-sterile injection technique or contaminated Botox. Consult your doctor immediately for antibiotic treatment. 
Best wishes

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Angie Huffaker,You appear to have multiple soft tissue infections.  This can arise if the skin wasn't appropriately cleaned at the time of treatment, if the injection was sterile, or from actions that caused sweating immediately after the injection.  Since there is an infection I would recommend you follow up with your injector ASAP to be started on appropriate therapy.  I hope this helps and good luck.

Sagar Patel, MD · Answer

I would treat this with oral antibiotics and perhaps a topical one too. It seems to be localized and needs to Ben looked at by your injector.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

It doesn't look like blisters but more like some kind of a superficial infection in your forehead. I would most definitely contact your treating physician for an evaluation and proper treatment. Good luck from New York City

John Tanqueray, MBBCh · Answer

I agree this looks like an infection, which would be best treated with antibiotics. This isn't something I've seen in my practice, and should be very unusual. You should let your practitioner know and I'm sure they would want to see you.Best wishes.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

I think that this is an infection from non sterile Botox or the skin wasn’t properly cleaned. It needs to be treated with topical and oral antibiotics. I haven’t seen this before.

Why is my face covered in blisters after Botox 2 weeks ago and how do I treat them? (Photos)

Answers (11)

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