The short answer
Wait until the next day before strenuous exercise after Botox. Light walking is fine the same day, but save the gym, running, hot yoga, spin classes and heavy lifting for at least 24 hours after your treatment.
Why you should wait
Right after your injections, Botox is still settling into the muscles where it was placed. Strenuous exercise raises your heart rate and blood flow, and some positions put pressure on your face or strain the treated muscles. Many injectors recommend waiting to lower the chance that the Botox spreads beyond where it was placed, and to reduce bruising and swelling.
What's okay, and what to skip
| Activity | After Botox |
|---|---|
| Walking and normal daily activity | Fine the same day |
| Running, spinning, HIIT or weightlifting | Wait until the next day |
| Hot yoga, saunas and steam rooms | Wait 24 hours |
| Yoga poses with your head down, or face-down positions | Wait until the next day |
| Face massages or facials | Wait 24 hours |
The 4-hour rule
For about the first 4 hours, stay upright and don't rub, press or massage the treated areas. That's when the Botox is settling most. After that, you can go about your normal day, just without the hard workout.
What about gentle facial exercises?
Some injectors suggest making the treated expressions, like frowning or raising your brows, a few times in the first hours. Follow your injector's advice at your appointment, since instructions can vary.
See the full Botox aftercare guide, learn more about Botox in Boca Raton, or read your first Botox appointment.