An aesthetic treatment is so much more than the moment itself in the treatment room. It is an investment in yourself — in your wellbeing, your confidence, and your relationship with the person you see in the mirror every morning. And just like all meaningful investments, the preparation plays a decisive role in the final result.
Over our years at Dibélle, we have seen it time and again: the clients who take the time to prepare properly, who follow our advice and who approach the treatment with the right expectations — they are the ones who leave the happiest. Not because the treatment itself is any different, but because the entire experience, from the first thought to the finished result, becomes more reassuring and harmonious.
This guide is our most comprehensive collection of advice, timelines and aftercare instructions. We have written it for you — whether you are visiting us for the first time or are a returning guest who wants to do everything right.
Why Preparation Matters So Much
It can be tempting to view an aesthetic treatment as something quick and simple. And indeed — many of our treatments take only 15–45 minutes. But the body and skin are complex systems, and what happens in the days and weeks before a treatment directly affects how your body responds.
Better healing. A well-prepared body heals faster. Skin that is hydrated, free from irritation and unaffected by blood-thinning substances reacts more predictably to all types of treatment.
Reduced risk. By informing us about medications, allergies and health conditions in advance, we can tailor the treatment to your specific needs and minimise the risk of unwanted reactions.
Realistic expectations. Perhaps the most important aspect of preparation. We want you to come to us with a clear picture of what the treatment can — and cannot — achieve. A good conversation beforehand, ideally during a complimentary consultation, lays the foundation for genuine satisfaction.
Better results. It is simply this: preparation + professional treatment + proper aftercare = optimal results. None of these three elements can compensate for a weakness in the others.
"I always tell my clients that the result begins before you walk through the door. The person who takes care of their skin, avoids the right things beforehand and comes here with an open dialogue — that is the person who ends up the happiest. My job becomes easier, and your result becomes more beautiful. It is a partnership."
— Abir Mustafa, registered nurse and founder of Dibélle
Preparing for Injection Treatments (Botox & Fillers)
Injection treatments are among our most popular services. Whether it involves botulinum toxin (Botox) to soften wrinkles, hyaluronic acid fillers for volume in the lips or cheekbones, or Rejuran for deep skin rejuvenation — the preparations follow similar principles.
One Week Before Treatment
This is the most important preparation period. What you do — and above all, what you avoid — during the week before treatment can directly impact how much you swell, whether you bruise and how quickly you recover.
- Stop blood-thinning medications and supplements. Ibuprofen, aspirin, omega-3 supplements, high-dose vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, ginseng and St. John's wort — all of these can increase bleeding tendency and the risk of bruising. If you take prescription blood thinners such as warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto or Pradaxa: contact us before making any changes. Never stop prescription medication without first consulting your prescribing doctor.
- Avoid alcohol. Ideally for the entire week before, but an absolute minimum of 48 hours prior. Alcohol dilates blood vessels and significantly increases the risk of bruising and swelling.
- Inform us about your health. Are you pregnant or breastfeeding? Do you have autoimmune conditions? Have you had cold sores (herpes simplex) in the treatment area? Are you currently taking antibiotics or other medications? The more we know, the better and safer we can treat you.
- Avoid intensive facial treatments. Do not schedule chemical peels, microneedling or laser treatments in the week before injections. The skin needs to be calm and unaffected.
- Start taking Arnica (optional). Some of our clients swear by arnica montana, a natural herbal remedy that may reduce bruising. Available as tablets or gel at pharmacies. The scientific evidence is limited, but it does no harm either.
2–3 Days Before Treatment
- Drink plenty of water. Good hydration helps the skin respond better to treatment, particularly with hyaluronic acid fillers that bind water. Aim for 1.5–2 litres of pure water per day.
- Sleep well. Sleep is the body's most important recovery tool. Try to get 7–8 hours of sleep the night before.
- Plan your calendar. Mild swelling and occasionally minor bruising are common after injections. Avoid scheduling important events, photo shoots or presentations 3–5 days after treatment. Most swelling subsides within 48 hours, but bruises can take up to a week to fully disappear.
- Avoid dental appointments. Have you recently had facial anaesthesia, or are you planning a dental procedure the same week? Reschedule it. We want the facial muscles to be unaffected.
Treatment Day
The day has arrived. Here is what to do the morning and hours before:
- Arrive with a clean face. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser at home, without applying makeup, creams or serums. We thoroughly cleanse the treatment area at the clinic, but a clean starting point makes a real difference.
- Eat a light meal. Do not arrive fasting — low blood sugar can make you dizzy and increase discomfort. But also avoid very heavy, salty or spicy meals that can contribute to swelling.
- Avoid large amounts of coffee. One cup in the morning is fine, but excessive caffeine can raise heart rate and blood pressure, which may marginally affect bleeding tendency.
- Bring any reference photos. Do you have photos showing the look you desire? Bring them to the consultation. It makes communication so much easier.
- Be honest and open. We always ask about your health and expectations. The more honest you are, the better results we can deliver. There are no silly questions.
- Stay calm. Stress and tension can make the treatment more uncomfortable. Breathe deeply, feel at ease — you are in experienced hands.
Preparing for Skincare Treatments (Dermapen, Chemical Peel, Facials)
Skincare treatments work directly with the surface and deeper layers of the skin. Dermapen (microneedling) creates microscopic channels in the skin to stimulate collagen production. Chemical peels dissolve dead skin cells and accelerate cell turnover. Our facials combine professional products with manual techniques for deep, lasting results.
Regardless of which treatment you choose, the following applies:
One Week Before Treatment
- Pause active ingredients. Stop using products containing retinol (vitamin A), AHA acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid), BHA acids (salicylic acid), high-concentration vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid. These ingredients sensitise the skin and can lead to irritation and uneven reactions during treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure entirely. Neither sunbeds nor intense outdoor exposure. Sunburnt skin cannot be treated safely — the risk of hyperpigmentation increases dramatically. Use at least SPF 30 daily during this week.
- No waxing, threading or laser hair removal. Avoid all forms of facial hair removal during the final week. The skin needs to be intact and free from micro-wounds.
- No filler injections or Botox. If you are planning to combine treatments, consult with us on timing. Generally, we recommend at least 2 weeks between injections and surface treatments.
- Inform us about skin conditions. Do you have active acne, a rosacea flare-up, eczema, psoriasis or an ongoing herpes infection? Contact us — we may need to postpone the treatment or adjust the protocol.
2–3 Days Before Treatment
- Hydrate the skin. Use a gentle, moisturising cream without active ingredients. Hydrated skin responds better to treatment and recovers faster.
- Drink plenty of water. Just as with injections — hydration from within is just as important as external hydration.
- Avoid exfoliating products. Even mild enzyme peels or scrubs should be avoided.
- Sleep well. The skin regenerates during sleep. Give it the best possible conditions.
Treatment Day
- Arrive with completely clean skin. No makeup, no sunscreen, no serums. We cleanse the face at the clinic, but a clean base is ideal.
- Avoid intense exercise in the morning. A sweaty, overheated face is not the best starting point. Exercise the day before instead.
- Have realistic expectations. Dermapen and chemical peels often deliver the most dramatic results after a series of treatments (3–6 sessions), not after a single one. We are happy to discuss a treatment plan during your visit.
- Bring sunscreen. You will need to apply SPF immediately after treatment before going outside. We have products at the clinic, but if you have a favourite — bring it along.
Preparing for Wonder EMS Training
Wonder EMS sessions do not require the same thorough medical preparation as injections or skincare treatments, but the right preparation still makes a difference to the experience.
Wonder EMS Training
- Wear comfortable clothing. We provide the EMS equipment, but please wear comfortable undergarments or workout underwear.
- Eat lightly 1–2 hours before. EMS training is intense — you need energy, but not a full stomach.
- Drink water — before, during and after. The muscle contractions during EMS increase your body's need for water.
- Inform us about implanted devices. Pacemakers, insulin pumps or metal implants may be contraindications for EMS. Always contact us in advance.
- Have realistic expectations. EMS delivers noticeable results after 4–6 sessions, not after a single one. It is a form of training that builds strength and tone over time.
What to Wear and Bring to Your Treatment
It may seem like a detail, but the right clothing and prepared belongings make your experience with us significantly smoother.
Clothing
- For facials and injections: Avoid clothing with tight necklines or jumpers that must be pulled over the head. A buttoned shirt or blouse with a wide neckline is ideal — you avoid the risk of dragging fabric against freshly treated skin when getting dressed.
- For body treatments: Comfortable, loose clothing that is easy to take on and off.
- For EMS training: Comfortable underwear. We provide the EMS suit.
Bring With You
- Any reference photos (for injections and aesthetic treatments)
- A list of all medications and supplements you take regularly
- Sunglasses (if you are treating the area around the eyes — light sensitivity may temporarily increase)
- Sunscreen SPF 50 (after skincare treatments)
- A cap or hat (if it is sunny outside, especially important after peels or Dermapen)
- Patience and good spirits — we will take care of the rest
Mental Preparation and Managing Expectations
The psychological aspect of aesthetic treatments is rarely discussed, but it is just as important as the physical preparation. Here we share some thoughts we believe are valuable.
Be Honest With Yourself About Why
The very best candidates for aesthetic treatments are those who do it for their own sake — not to fulfil someone else's expectations. Consider what it is you want to achieve. Is it to look more rested? Soften a wrinkle that has bothered you for years? Regain volume you have lost with age? All of these are entirely legitimate reasons.
Understand That Natural Is Key
At Dibélle, we always work towards natural, harmonious results. We do not believe in excessive transformation. Our goal is for you to look like the best version of yourself — not like an entirely different person. If you come in with photos of extreme results from social media, we will have an honest conversation about what is possible and appropriate for your face.
First Time? It Is Normal to Be Nervous
Many of our first-time visitors tell us they were nervous beforehand. That is completely understandable. Here is what we want you to know:
- The pain is manageable. We always use numbing cream for injections and can adjust our technique to your pain threshold.
- We go at your pace. Want to take a break in the middle of the treatment? Absolutely. Want to ask questions throughout? Of course.
- The consultation is complimentary and obligation-free. You do not need to decide on the spot. Come, ask questions, get a feel for the atmosphere — and then make your decision at home in your own time.
Timeline for Results
Understanding when you can expect to see the final result helps enormously with the mental journey:
- Botox: Begins to show after 3–5 days, full result after 10–14 days
- Fillers (hyaluronic acid): Immediate volume, but swelling subsides after 5–14 days — the final result is assessed after 2–4 weeks
- Rejuran: Gradual improvement over 4–8 weeks
- Dermapen: Visible improvement after 2–4 weeks, cumulative results after a series
- Chemical peel: The skin "peels" for 3–7 days, fresh new skin emerges after 1–2 weeks
- EMS training: Noticeable results after 4–6 sessions
Aftercare Guide — Treatment by Treatment
Proper aftercare is at least as important as proper preparation. Here we go through specific instructions for each type of treatment we offer.
Aftercare: Botox
The first 4 hours:
- Stay upright — do not lie down
- Do not touch, massage or press on the treated area
- Avoid bending forward repeatedly
- Feel free to make gentle, natural facial expressions — this helps the product distribute within the muscle
The first 24 hours:
- No exercise or physical exertion
- No alcohol
- No sauna, steam baths, hot baths or sunbeds
- No makeup on the treated area
The first week:
- Sleep on your back if possible (the first 1–2 nights)
- Avoid facial massage and facial treatments
- Contact us if you experience severe headache, drooping eyelids or asymmetry
Long-term:
- Botox typically lasts 3–5 months
- We recommend maintenance treatments before the effect wears off completely — this gives more consistent results over time
- Book a follow-up after 2 weeks — we adjust free of charge if needed
Aftercare: Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid)
The first 6 hours:
- Avoid touching or massaging the treated area (unless we have specifically instructed you to do so)
- Some swelling, redness and tenderness is completely normal
- Apply cold gently (a cold compress wrapped in a towel, never ice directly against the skin) in 10-minute intervals
The first 24 hours:
- No intense exercise
- No alcohol
- Avoid extreme heat (sauna, steam baths)
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated the first night if possible
The first 3–5 days:
- Swelling peaks around day 2–3 and then gradually subsides
- Minor bruising may occur — concealer is fine to use after 24 hours
- Avoid dental appointments during the first week after lip fillers
The first week:
- No facial massage or facial treatments
- Avoid extremely salty food (can contribute to water retention and swelling)
- Be careful with physical contact in the treated area
Long-term:
- Fillers last 6–18 months depending on the product, area and your metabolism
- Book a follow-up after 2–4 weeks for assessment
- We recommend maintenance treatments for consistent results
Aftercare: Rejuran
The first 24 hours:
- Mild redness and swelling in the treated area is normal
- Apply only the cream we recommend — nothing else
- No makeup
- No exercise
The first 3–5 days:
- Small raised dots at the injection sites disappear within 1–3 days
- Continue with gentle, moisturising skincare without active ingredients
- SPF 50 every day
Long-term:
- Rejuran provides gradual improvement in skin quality, elasticity and radiance
- We recommend 3–4 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart for optimal results
- Maintenance with 1–2 treatments per year
Aftercare: Dermapen (Microneedling)
The first 12 hours:
- The skin will be red, warm and sensitive — like a mild sunburn
- Apply only the products we recommend (typically a soothing serum and a barrier cream)
- No makeup, no sunscreen with chemical filters — mineral filters are fine after 12 hours
- Do not touch your face with unclean hands
Day 1–3:
- Redness gradually subsides
- The skin may feel tight and dry — moisturise generously
- Avoid exercise and sweating
- No baths, saunas or swimming pools
Day 3–5:
- Mild flaking may occur — do not pick or scrape
- Begin applying SPF 50 (if you have not already done so with mineral filters)
- You can start using light makeup again
Day 5–7:
- Most people are back to their normal skincare routine
- Continue to avoid retinol and strong acids for another 3–5 days
Long-term:
- We recommend 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart
- Results: more even skin tone, reduced scarring and fine lines, firmer skin
- Maintenance: 1–2 times per year after completing a series
Aftercare: Chemical Peel
The first 24 hours:
- The skin may be red and tight — completely normal
- Use only the products we recommend
- No makeup
- No exercise
Day 2–5:
- Peeling usually begins on day 2–3 depending on the depth of the peel
- Never pick at peeling skin. Allow it to shed naturally — otherwise you risk scarring and hyperpigmentation
- Moisturise intensively
- SPF 50 is absolutely mandatory
Day 5–10:
- Peeling subsides and fresh, new skin emerges
- The skin may be more sensitive to the sun for 2–4 weeks
- Gradually reintroduce your regular skincare — start with gentle products
Long-term:
- Superficial peels can be repeated every 2–4 weeks
- Medium-depth peels: every 6–8 weeks
- Daily sunscreen, year-round — the single most important step in your skincare
Aftercare: Wonder EMS Training
- Drink at least 0.5 litres of water immediately after the session and continue drinking extra throughout the rest of the day
- Mild muscle soreness on day 1–2 is normal and desirable — it indicates the muscles were working
- Eat protein-rich food within 1–2 hours after the session to support muscle recovery
- Wait at least 48 hours between EMS sessions for full recovery
Day-by-Day Recovery — An Overview
| Day | Botox | Fillers | Dermapen | Chemical Peel | |-----|-------|---------|----------|---------------| | Day 0 | Mild needle marks | Swelling, tenderness | Redness, warmth | Mild redness | | Day 1 | No visible signs | Increased swelling | Redness subsides | Tightness | | Day 2 | No effect yet | Swelling peaks | Dryness, tightness | Peeling begins | | Day 3 | Effect begins to show | Swelling decreases | Mild flaking | Visible peeling | | Day 5 | Noticeable effect | Nearly normal | Normal skin | Peeling subsides | | Day 7 | Clear result | Assess the result | Radiance visible | Fresh, new skin | | Day 14 | Full result | Final result | Good improvement | Final result |
When Should You Contact the Clinic?
The vast majority of treatments proceed without complications. But it is important that you know what to watch for. Contact us immediately if you experience:
After Injections (Botox, Fillers, Rejuran)
- Severe, increasing pain that is not relieved by paracetamol
- Blue-white or whitish discolouration of the skin in the treated area — this may indicate vascular compression and requires immediate assessment
- Vision changes — blurred vision, double vision or visual field loss (extremely rare but requires emergency assessment)
- Significant asymmetry that does not match the expected swelling
- Signs of infection — increasing redness, warmth, swelling and pus after more than 48 hours
- Fever in combination with pain in the treated area
- Allergic reaction — rash, itching, breathing difficulties (call 112 for severe breathing difficulties)
After Skincare Treatments (Dermapen, Peel)
- Blisters or severe skin reaction that differs from normal peeling
- Infection — persistent redness, pus, increasing pain
- Dark spots (hyperpigmentation) that do not fade
- Severe stinging that is not relieved by the products we recommended
Important to Know
- We always respond to messages — never hesitate to get in touch, even if you are just unsure
- Better to contact us one time too many than one time too few
- We offer complimentary follow-up after all treatments
- Acute symptoms (breathing difficulties, severe allergic reaction): call 112
Long-Term Care and Maintenance Schedule
Aesthetic treatments deliver the best results when viewed as part of a long-term plan, not one-off interventions. Here are our general recommendations for maintenance:
Injections
- Botox: Every 3–5 months. Regular treatment can over time extend the effect, as the muscles are "trained" to relax.
- Fillers (lips): Every 6–12 months. Hyaluronic acid breaks down naturally, but with maintenance you often need a smaller amount each time.
- Fillers (cheekbones, jaw, chin): Every 12–18 months.
- Rejuran: An initial series of 3–4 treatments, then 1–2 maintenance treatments per year.
Skincare
- Dermapen: A series of 3–6 treatments, then 2–4 maintenance treatments per year depending on skin condition.
- Chemical peel: Can be done regularly every 4–8 weeks as part of your skincare routine.
- Facials: Once per month for optimal skin quality.
Body and Wellbeing
- Wonder EMS: 1–2 times per week during a build-up phase (6–8 weeks), then once per week for maintenance.
Your Daily Routine Matters
No treatment in the world can compensate for a lack of daily skincare. Our core recommendations:
- Cleansing — morning and evening, with a gentle cleanser
- Serum — tailored to your skin condition (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C)
- Moisturiser — always, regardless of skin type
- Sunscreen SPF 50 — every day, year-round, regardless of weather. Sunscreen is the single most important anti-ageing product there is.
Build a Treatment Plan With Dibélle
We do not believe in one-off interventions. We believe in partnership. When you become a client at Dibélle, you do not just receive a single treatment — you gain a long-term partner who cares about how you look and feel, year after year.
How Does It Work?
- Complimentary consultation. We always begin with a conversation. What do you want to achieve? What is your budget? What timeline suits you? We listen, assess and give honest recommendations.
- Tailored treatment plan. Based on the consultation, we design a plan that may include a combination of treatments, adapted to your goals and your lifestyle.
- Gradual implementation. We often start cautiously and build up gradually. Especially with injections, we prefer to add a little at a time rather than too much at once. You can always add more — but removing is more difficult.
- Regular follow-ups. We follow up after every treatment to ensure you are satisfied and that the result is developing as planned.
- Adjustment over time. Your skin and your needs change with the years. We continuously adapt your plan.
Why Dibélle?
With over 1,027 reviews and an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 on Bokadirekt, we have built our reputation on results, trust and genuine care. Every treatment is performed or supervised by our registered nurse Abir Mustafa, who has worked in aesthetic medicine since 2011. You are in safe, experienced hands.
Book Your Consultation
You have read this guide — that shows you take your treatment seriously, and that makes us happy. Now the next step is simple.
Book a complimentary consultation with us at Dibélle, Kullagatan 40 in Helsingborg. We will sit down together, discuss your wishes and create a plan that is entirely tailored to you.
You can book directly via Bokadirekt or contact us on Instagram if you have questions beforehand.
We look forward to welcoming you.
With care, The team at Dibélle