The little bumps: totally normal
Profhilo is usually injected using a set number of precise points across the area (often five on each side of the face, using what is known as the BAP technique). Straight after treatment you will see and feel small raised bumps or blebs at each of these points. Do not panic, and do not massage them. This is simply the product sitting where it was placed, and it will absorb and spread naturally into the skin, usually within around 24 hours. By the next day they have almost always gone.
The first 24 hours: the key dos and don'ts
This is the most important part of your recovery window, so it is worth being a little disciplined.
- Do not touch, rub or massage the treated area. This is important with Profhilo. Unlike some filler treatments, you want the product to spread on its own, so leave those little bumps alone.
- Avoid make-up for the rest of the day, ideally for 24 hours, to keep the injection points clean and reduce any infection risk.
- Skip the gym and any strenuous exercise, as raising your body temperature and blood flow can increase swelling and bruising.
- Avoid alcohol, which can worsen bruising and swelling.
- Stay upright for a few hours and try to sleep on your back that first night if you can.
- Keep the area clean and simply let it settle. Drinking plenty of water supports the hydrating effect.
The first two weeks: helping it settle
Once you are past the first day, the rest is straightforward, but a few things are still worth avoiding while your skin does its work.
- Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga and sunbeds for around two weeks, since heat can affect the product and increase swelling.
- Postpone other facial treatments such as facials, peels, microneedling or laser for around two weeks, and mention your Profhilo at your next appointment elsewhere.
- Protect your skin with a daily SPF, which is good practice anyway and helps your results.
- Stick to your normal, gentle skincare routine and avoid harsh activities for a day or two.
What is normal, and when to call us
Some mild redness, minor swelling, tenderness or the occasional small bruise around the injection sites is completely normal, and recovery time is generally quick, with these effects settling within a few days. What is not expected is increasing pain, spreading redness or heat, or any signs of infection in the days that follow. If you have any questions or concerns, contact us on 01228 581820 and we will advise you. As a medically led clinic, we are always here to support you after treatment, not just during it.
Getting the very best results
Profhilo is designed to be given as a course, not a one-off. The standard protocol is two sessions spaced four weeks apart to kick-start collagen production, followed by maintenance every six months or so to keep your skin hydrated and firm, your skin texture smooth and your skin elasticity improved over time. Because the results build gradually over those weeks rather than appearing instantly, and develop at a pace that suits your own skin type and skin condition, patience genuinely pays off. Pairing your treatment with good sun protection, hydration and a sensible skincare routine will help your glow last. If you would like more information on how Profhilo compares with other skin treatments, our guide to polynucleotides versus Profhilo is a helpful read, along with our overview of what skin boosters are.
Common aftercare mistakes to avoid
A few simple slip-ups can undermine your result, so they are worth knowing. The most common is massaging or pressing the little bumps to try to smooth them, which can move the product from where it was carefully placed; leave them alone and let them absorb. Others include booking a workout, a sauna or a big night out for the same evening, applying make-up too soon, or having another facial treatment booked in within the next fortnight. Planning your Profhilo for a quiet day, rather than the day before a holiday or a big event, makes it far easier to follow the aftercare properly and gives your skin time to settle.
What you can do to support your results
Aftercare is not only about what to avoid; a few positive habits genuinely help. Staying well hydrated supports the hydrating action of the treatment, and a consistent, gentle skincare routine with daily SPF protects the collagen you are working to build. Completing your full course, rather than stopping after one session, is important, because the two-session protocol is what triggers the best collagen response. Finally, keeping up with maintenance sessions before your results fade will keep your skin looking its freshest all year round.
Profhilo at Oracle Aesthetics, Carlisle
At Oracle Aesthetics in Carlisle, your Profhilo is carried out by Nurse Ness Abbey and the team, who will plan your two-session course, talk you through your aftercare, and answer any questions along the way. Book your consultation to start your Profhilo journey, or your next session to keep your results topped up, for skin that looks hydrated, firm and refreshed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I massage Profhilo like other fillers?
Because Profhilo is designed to spread through the skin on its own. Massaging it can move it from where it was carefully placed, so you should leave the little bumps to absorb naturally over the first day.
How long do the bumps after Profhilo last?
The small raised points usually settle and absorb within about 24 hours, and are almost always gone by the next day.
When can I wear make-up after Profhilo?
Ideally wait 24 hours before applying make-up over the treated area, to keep the injection points clean while they close.
How long until I see results from Profhilo?
Because it works by stimulating your own collagen, results build gradually over the weeks following your treatment, with most people seeing the best effect after completing the two-session course.
When can I exercise after Profhilo?
Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours, then you can return to your normal routine.
