Posted August 17, 2025 in Botox
Neurotoxin treatments like Botox®, Dysport®, Daxxify™, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin® have become some of the most popular ways to smooth wrinkles, refresh your appearance, and achieve a youthful, natural look. At Mountcastle Medical Spa & Laser Center in Ashburn, Virginia, we perform thousands of these treatments every year, and patients are always thrilled with their results—when they prepare properly.
Unfortunately, many people make mistakes before or after treatment that can negatively impact their results. Some are small, but one is the #1 mistake that can ruin your experience and put your investment at risk. Let’s dive into the Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid Before and After Botox, Dysport, Daxxify, Jeuveau, and Xeomin—with special emphasis on the most important one.
The #1 Mistake Before Botox and Other Neurotoxins: Not Choosing the Right Injector
Without question, the biggest mistake people make is not doing their research and choosing an inexperienced injector or chasing the cheapest price.
Why this matters:
- Neurotoxin injections require precise knowledge of facial anatomy, dosing, and placement.
- An inexperienced injector can cause drooping eyelids, uneven brows, a “frozen” look, or even asymmetry that lasts for months.
- Cheap deals often mean watered-down product, over-dilution, or even counterfeit injectables purchased outside of FDA-approved channels.
In Virginia, neurotoxin treatments should only be performed by licensed medical professionals such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or physicians. At Mountcastle Medical Spa, our injectors, including Meredith West, PA-C and Dr. Madeline David, NP, each have more than a decade of advanced experience and are recognized as some of the best injectors in Northern Virginia.
Tip: Always verify credentials, training, and patient reviews before booking. If the price sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
The Top 10 Mistakes Before and After Botox, Dysport, Daxxify, Jeuveau, and Xeomin
1. Not Choosing the Right Injector (The #1 Mistake)
We can’t emphasize this enough—skill and experience matter more than price. Your injector is the single most important factor in your results.
2. Taking Blood Thinners or Certain Medications Before Treatment
Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, or even certain supplements (like vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, or St. John’s wort) can increase your risk of bruising. Always let your injector know what you’re taking.
3. Drinking Alcohol Before Your Appointment
Even one or two drinks can thin your blood and make bruising worse. Avoid alcohol for at least 24–48 hours before treatment.
4. Working Out Right Before or After Treatment
Exercise increases blood flow and can cause your Botox or Dysport to migrate, reducing its effectiveness. Avoid intense workouts for at least 24 hours after injections.
5. Touching or Rubbing Your Face After Injections
One of the most common mistakes is rubbing, massaging, or even lying face-down right after treatment. This can move the product out of place. Avoid touching the treated area for 4–6 hours after injections.
6. Expecting Results Too Quickly
Botox and similar products don’t work instantly. Results typically appear in 3–7 days, with full results at around two weeks. Be patient—your injector may recommend a follow-up to fine-tune results.
7. Scheduling Too Close to a Big Event
If you’re getting Botox before a wedding, photoshoot, or vacation, don’t wait until the last minute. Bruising or swelling is always a possibility. Book at least 2–4 weeks before your event for best results.
8. Ignoring Pre- and Post-Care Instructions
Your injector will give you detailed instructions for before and after treatment. Following them is critical. Skipping steps like avoiding alcohol, sleeping elevated, or delaying workouts can directly affect your results.
9. Over-Treating or Trying to “Freeze” Your Face
Many first-timers ask for the maximum amount to get dramatic results. In reality, the best outcomes come from a balanced, natural approach. Over-treating can lead to stiffness and unnatural movement.
10. Not Scheduling Regular Maintenance
Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin typically last 3–4 months, while Daxxify may last up to 6 months. Skipping maintenance leads to results wearing off completely before your next session, which can make wrinkles reappear more noticeable.
Why Patients in Virginia Trust Mountcastle Medical Spa
At Mountcastle Medical Spa & Laser Center in Ashburn, VA, we’re proud to be recognized as:
- Best Medical Spa – Best of Ashburn 2025
- Best Injector – Meredith West, PA-C
- Best Plastic Surgeon – Dr. Timothy Mountcastle
- Best of Loudoun Award Winners
Our award-winning team has helped thousands of patients achieve natural, beautiful results with Botox, Dysport, Daxxify, Jeuveau, and Xeomin. We believe education is key, so we spend time making sure every patient understands pre- and post-care, so you feel confident and safe at every step.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering Botox, Dysport, Daxxify, Jeuveau, or Xeomin in Virginia, remember: the #1 mistake you can make is choosing the wrong injector. Saving a few dollars isn’t worth the risk of bad results that last for months.
By avoiding these Top 10 mistakes before and after treatment, you’ll give yourself the best chance for smooth, natural, and lasting results.
✨ Ready to refresh your look? ✨
Call or text 571-266-1776 or visit mountcastlemedicalspa.com to book your consultation today.