Bruise Prevention
First & foremost, avoiding alcohol for at least 24 hours (3-5 days preferred) prior to your procedure and for 24 hours after your procedure can substantially reduce your chances of bruising from any injectable procedure.
Medications to Avoid: These can increase your risk of bruising by thinning the blood or affecting clotting.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications may inhibit platelet function and increase your chances of bruising with any aesthetic procedure. Stop taking these medications at least 3 days prior to your procedure unless otherwise instructed by your PCP.
Aspirin
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Naproxen (Aleve)
Excedrin
Other NSAIDs
Prescription Medications may inhibit platelet function and increase your chances of bruising with any aesthetic procedure. If you are taking one or more of these medications, be sure to inform your Aligned Aesthetics Co. provider so she can make other recommendations for you for bruise prevention. In most cases, it is not possible to take a holiday from these medications so it is simply best to plan your procedures around your social calendar and expect bruising.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Heparin
Clopidogrel (Plavix)
Apixaban (Eliquis), Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)
Supplements & Herbs to Avoid: These natural products may increase bleeding or bruising.
■ Fish Oil (Omega-3) & Flax Oil
■ Vitamin E
■ Ginkgo Biloba
■ Garlic
■ Ginseng
■ St. John’s Wort
■ Turmeric & Ginger
Supplements & Foods That May Help Reduce Bruising: These support blood vessel health, reduce inflammation, and help speed healing after injections.
■ Pineapple (rich in Bromelain)
An enzyme that reduces inflammation and swelling, promoting bruise healing
■ Arnica (topical or oral)
Traditionally used to reduce bruising and swelling
■ Vitamin C
Strengthens capillaries and supports collagen production
■ Vitamin K
Supports proper blood clotting and helps minimize bruising
■ Zinc
Supports tissue repair and healing
■ Bioflavonoids (e.g., Quercetin, Rutin)
Help strengthen capillaries and reduce bleeding tendency