Whether you’re prepping for Botox, laser skin resurfacing, or dermal fillers, your diet can make or break your results. Yep, what you put on your plate matters just as much as what you put on your face. The right nutrition before and after a medical aesthetic treatment can dramatically improve healing, minimize side effects, and maximize that glow-up.

So, before you grab that double espresso or post-treatment pizza, let’s break down the dos and don’ts of eating around your appointment. Your skin (and body) will thank you.

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TLDR – Quick Guide

• Before treatment: Focus on hydration, anti-inflammatory foods, and avoiding alcohol and blood thinners like aspirin and fish oil.
  
• After treatment: Eat healing-friendly foods rich in protein, vitamins C and A, zinc, and antioxidants.
  
• Avoid: Alcohol, excess sugar, salty snacks, spicy foods, and processed meals before and after.
  
• Stay hydrated and support collagen with foods like berries, leafy greens, and bone broth.
  
• Nutrition plays a critical role in reducing swelling, bruising, and speeding up recovery.
  

Implementation Tactics

What to Eat Before a Medical Aesthetic Treatment

1. Load Up on Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Inflammation is the enemy of smooth recovery. Incorporate foods like:

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
  
• Berries (blueberries, raspberries)
  
• Fatty fish (salmon, sardines)
  
• Nuts and seeds (chia, flax, almonds)
  

These help prep your immune system and reduce your risk of post-treatment redness and swelling.

2. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job

Water improves circulation and tissue health. Aim for at least 8–10 glasses the day before and the morning of your treatment.

3. Eat Vitamin C and Zinc-Rich Foods

Vitamin C boosts collagen production and wound healing, while zinc supports immune function. Great picks include:

• Citrus fruits
  
• Red bell peppers
  
• Pumpkin seeds
  
• Chickpeas
  

4. Avoid Blood-Thinning Foods and Supplements

In the 48 hours prior, skip:

• Alcohol
  
• Aspirin and ibuprofen
  
• Fish oil
  
• Turmeric supplements
  
• Ginger and garlic in large amounts
  

These increase the likelihood of bruising and bleeding.

What to Eat After a Medical Aesthetic Treatment

1. Stick to Soft, Nutrient-Rich Meals

If you’ve had facial treatments (like fillers or microneedling), you’ll want soft foods that don’t require aggressive chewing. Try:

• Smoothies with spinach, banana, and berries
  
• Bone broth or veggie soups
  
• Mashed sweet potatoes
  
• Oatmeal topped with flax seeds
  

2. Keep the Anti-Inflammatory Train Rolling

Continue loading up on:

• Omega-3s from fish or flaxseed oil
  
• Leafy greens
  
• Fresh fruits
  

These keep swelling down and help tissues recover quickly.

3. Up Your Protein Intake

Protein is essential for cell repair. Incorporate:

• Eggs
  
• Chicken breast
  
• Greek yogurt
  
• Tofu or lentils
  

Especially within the first 24–72 hours post-treatment.

4. Watch Your Salt and Sugar

Avoid processed foods, high-sugar snacks, and salty items like chips or takeout, which can increase inflammation and cause bloating.

5. No Alcohol or Caffeine (Temporarily!)

They dehydrate you and can interfere with recovery. Swap coffee for green tea and wine for electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water.

Key Takeaways

• Your nutrition directly impacts how well your skin heals and how fast you see results.
  
• Before your appointment, aim to reduce inflammation and avoid anything that thins your blood.
  
• Afterward, focus on hydration, healing nutrients, and gentle foods to minimize downtime.
  
• With the right foods, you can speed up recovery and protect your investment in your aesthetic treatment.
  

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