The holidays bring parties, family photos, travel and New Year's Eve. If you want to look rested and refreshed for all of it, timing matters. Botox needs about two weeks to take full effect. Filler can cause swelling or bruising for several days. Peels and resurfacing need time to heal.
Book too late and you might be bruised or peeling for the event you were preparing for. Here is how to plan.
Key takeaways
- Book Botox at least two weeks before your event. Three to four weeks is even better.
- Book filler at least two weeks before, to allow for swelling and bruising to settle.
- Light peels and HydraFacial can be done about one week before.
- Stronger treatments like CO2 resurfacing or deeper peels need a month or more.
- Holiday weeks fill up quickly, so schedule in early to mid November.
Why timing matters
Every treatment has a window between the appointment and its best result.
- Botox and similar neurotoxins start working in three to five days and reach full effect at about two weeks.
- Dermal fillers look good right away, but swelling can last a few days, and bruises can take a week or more to fade.
- Chemical peels can cause redness and peeling for a few days to a week, depending on strength.
- Microneedling leaves skin pink for one to three days, and results build over weeks.
- Laser resurfacing can involve a week or more of downtime.
Planning backward from your most important event is the best way to avoid surprises.
A simple holiday timeline
Early November: consult and plan
This is the ideal time for a cosmetic consultation. Your provider can recommend a plan and schedule treatments in the right order. It is also the time for treatments with the most downtime.
Mid November: Botox and filler
Botox given in mid November will be at full effect for Thanksgiving and the December holidays, and it usually lasts into the new year. This is also a good time for dermal fillers, leaving plenty of time for swelling to go down and for a touch-up if needed.
Late November to early December: skin quality
Microneedling and medium chemical peels done in late November give skin time to heal and glow by mid December.
One week before: a quick refresh
Light peels and treatments like HydraFacial can give skin a boost with little or no downtime. Many people book these the week before a big party.
The week of your event
Avoid new treatments, new products and anything that might cause irritation. Keep your routine simple, sleep well and wear sunscreen.
Treatments to book, and how far ahead
- Botox for frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet: 2 to 4 weeks before
- Lip filler: 2 to 3 weeks before, because lips can swell more than other areas
- Cheek, jawline or under-eye filler: 2 to 4 weeks before
- Sculptra: start months ahead, because it builds gradually over a series
- Microneedling: 2 to 4 weeks before
- Medium chemical peel: 2 to 3 weeks before
- Light peel or HydraFacial: about 1 week before
- CO2 laser resurfacing, at offices that offer it: 4 to 6 weeks or more before
Tips to reduce bruising and swelling
- Avoid alcohol for a day or two before injections
- Ask your doctor before stopping any prescribed blood thinner, but tell your provider about it
- Stop optional supplements that thin the blood, such as fish oil and vitamin E, about a week before, if your doctor agrees
- Ice the area after treatment
- Skip hard workouts for the rest of the day
- Keep a concealer on hand for small bruises
Planning for photos and travel
Holiday photos are unforgiving. Flash and bright light show every bit of redness, dryness and shine. A few tips from our providers:
- Schedule treatments that cause redness at least a week before photo day
- If you are flying, remember cabin air is very dry. Pack a moisturizer and a lip balm
- If you are headed somewhere sunny, avoid peels and resurfacing right before the trip, since fresh skin burns easily
- If you are getting filler and flying soon after, ask your provider about timing
- For a big family photo, a light treatment a week ahead and good sleep the night before go a long way
If you are traveling between our offices over the holidays, for example from New York to Palm Beach County, keep in mind that treatments vary by office. Your provider can help plan around where you will be.
Holiday skin care at home
Holiday season is hard on skin: late nights, rich food, drinks, cold weather and travel. A few habits help:
- Moisturize more in cold, dry weather
- Keep up with sunscreen, especially if you are traveling somewhere sunny
- Drink water, especially on flights and at parties
- Take makeup off every night, even after a late party
- Do not try a new product right before a big event
Frequently asked questions
Can I get Botox a few days before a party?
You can, but you will not see the full effect. Botox takes up to two weeks to settle, so earlier is better.
What if I bruise from filler?
Most bruises fade within a week to ten days. Booking at least two weeks ahead gives you a buffer. Makeup can cover small bruises.
Is it too late to start if it is already December?
Not at all. Botox and light treatments can still be ready for late December or New Year's if you book early in the month.
Where can I see prices?
Our upfront pricing page lists current starting prices by treatment.
Book your holiday treatments
Holiday appointments fill quickly. We offer injectables and skin treatments at all of our offices, including Palm Beach Gardens and Downtown Brooklyn. Treatments vary by office, so check the service page or ask our team. Book a visit online to get on the calendar.