BOTOX Aftercare: What Is the 4-Hour Rule?

July 31, 2025

a patient undergoing BOTOX treatment

While developing fine lines or wrinkles is a natural part of the aging process, it doesn’t mean you have to settle for a look that you aren’t comfortable with. Fortunately, you can effectively rejuvenate your skin with BOTOX, allowing you to take years off your appearance. Keep reading to learn how this treatment works and several essential aftercare tips to help you make the most of your results.

How Does BOTOX Work?

BOTOX involves your physician utilizing a botulinum toxin solution to inject into the areas of your face that you want to address. The treatment is designed to relax the muscles responsible for creating wrinkles and fine lines by blocking nerve signals. Afterward, your skin can appear smoother, and you’ll end up preventing new lines from forming.

What is the 4-Hour Rule for BOTOX?

Once you’ve undergone BOTOX treatment, it’s important to adhere to your doctor’s aftercare instructions. One of the main things to keep in mind is the 4-hour rule, which involves avoiding any excessive activity for at least four hours after receiving the injection. Having blood rush to your face can reduce the effectiveness of the medication as well as increase the risk of bruising. Not only do you want to avoid lying down, but you’ll also want to refrain from massaging your face or going into a sauna or hot tub.

What to Expect After BOTOX Treatment

After the four hours are over, patients can usually resume their normal activities. This rule is mainly to allow the BOTOX solution ample time to work itself into the muscle. Most people can notice the effects of the treatment after around three days, and you might expect your results to last around three to six months before needing to get touchups. Though it’s normal to experience mild discomfort when receiving BOTOX injections, you should feel back to normal in no time.

To enjoy your treatment results, make sure to follow your doctor’s aftercare guidelines. By applying the 4-hour rule, you’ll be able to make the most of a smoother and more youthful appearance.

About the Author

Dr. Rubina Azam brings over a decade of experience as an aesthetic physician and strives to ensure patients receive incredible results. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and offers various skin rejuvenation treatments, including BOTOX. To learn more about this process and helpful aftercare tips, feel free to visit our website or reach out to our team at 850-819-4723.