Analysis: Arnica’s Popularity on Social Not Supported by Data for Post-Procedure Recovery
Key Takeaways
Most social media content reviewed favored Arnica use for aesthetic injectables, though few posts provided scientific backing.
Literature review found minimal and mixed evidence supporting Arnica’s effectiveness for post-procedure bruising.
Only one clinical study directly addressed Arnica use in dermatologic injectables.
Social media users and health care professionals frequently endorse Arnica montana for reducing bruising and swelling following aesthetic injectables, but a recent analysis shows scientific support for its use may be lacking.
Researchers reviewed 48 TikTok and 305 Reddit posts referencing Arnica use in aesthetic procedures over a 2-year span. The overwhelming majority of content analyzed (91.7% on TikTok and 58% on Reddit) endorsed the product’s use. A concurrent literature search of OVID Medline and Embase showed limited and inconsistent evidence for Arnica’s efficacy, particularly in dermatologic procedures, according to the study researchers. Just one clinical study addressed Arnica in the context of aesthetic injectables. Systematic reviews focused on surgical outcomes, finding small but statistically significant benefits in some settings.
“Despite its popularity on social media and frequent use by health care providers, scientific evidence supporting Arnica's efficacy in reducing bruising and swelling after aesthetic procedures remains inconclusive,” the authors wrote. “Social media discussions predominantly supported Arnica use, with limited opposition noted.”
Source: Ryshaya N, et al. Dermatologic Surgery. 2025;51(7):668-672. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000004599