Most doctors recommend avoiding alcohol for at least 24 hours after Botox, and ideally 24 hours before as well. Alcohol widens blood vessels and can increase bruising and swelling at injection sites. It does not usually stop Botox from working, but waiting gives the skin time to settle. Follow the specific aftercare given at Re:berry Hongdae.
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae · Information reviewed for accuracy · Results vary by individual.
Why avoid alcohol after Botox?
Botox is a botulinum toxin injected in small amounts to relax specific muscles. The injections themselves cause tiny punctures in the skin. Alcohol acts as a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels, and it also has a mild blood-thinning effect. Together these may make bruising and swelling more likely or more noticeable in the first day.
There is limited evidence that moderate alcohol affects how well the toxin works, but most clinics advise caution because the first 24 hours are when the product settles into the treated muscles.
How long should I wait?
- Before treatment: many doctors suggest skipping alcohol for about 24 hours to lower bruising risk
- After treatment: wait at least 24 hours; some doctors suggest 48 hours if you bruise easily
- Heavy drinking: best avoided for several days, as it can also cause facial flushing and puffiness that make it harder to judge results
The same caution applies to jaw Botox and skin botox.
What else should I avoid on day one?
- Lying flat for about four hours after injection, if your doctor advises it
- Rubbing or massaging the treated area
- Saunas, jjimjilbang and hot yoga
- Intense workouts that raise blood pressure
Full guidance is in aftercare after Botox and filler.
Planning around nights out in Hongdae
Hongdae is known for its nightlife, so many visitors book Botox earlier in a trip or on a quiet day, then enjoy evenings out after the 24-hour window. If you have a celebration planned, consider scheduling treatment the day after rather than the morning before. Results vary by individual.
Is alcohol a concern for other injectables too?
Yes. The same advice generally applies to filler, skin boosters and contour injections, because any injection can bruise and alcohol may make bruising more likely. For filler, many doctors suggest a slightly longer break, around 24–48 hours, since swelling is more common. If you take blood-thinning medication, do not stop it without your prescribing doctor's advice; instead, tell the Re:berry doctor so the plan can account for it. Supplements such as fish oil, ginkgo and high-dose vitamin E may also increase bruising.
At a glance
- Avoid alcohol: Typically 24 hours after; many advise 24 hours before
- Main reason: Reduces bruising and swelling
- Does it cancel Botox?: Not usually, but follow your doctor's advice
- Also avoid: Saunas, intense exercise, face massage on day one
- Results appear: Typically 3–14 days after injection
Related questions
What happens if I drank alcohol after Botox by accident?
A small drink is unlikely to ruin the result, but it may increase the chance of bruising or swelling. Avoid more alcohol for the rest of the day, keep your head elevated, and use a cool compress if you notice swelling. Contact the clinic if anything concerns you.
Can I drink alcohol the night before Botox?
Many doctors advise avoiding alcohol for about 24 hours before injections, because it can make bruising more likely. If you have already had a drink, mention it at check-in so the doctor can decide whether to proceed. Being honest about it helps the team reduce bruising risk.
Does alcohol make Botox wear off faster?
There is no strong evidence that occasional drinking makes Botox wear off faster. Duration depends more on dose, muscle strength, metabolism and treatment area. Typical results last around three to four months for wrinkle treatment, and results vary by individual.
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Before you book
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Suitability, dose, number of sessions and expected results are decided by a doctor at consultation, and results vary by individual. Possible side effects include redness, swelling and bruising. Pricing is confirmed in writing before any treatment. See our medical disclaimer.
Still have a question?
A doctor at Re:berry Clinic Hongdae can answer it for your skin specifically. Multilingual consultation support is available.