Hickeys, also known as love bites or kiss marks, are bruises caused by intense kissing or sucking on the skin. They occur when small blood vessels under the skin, called capillaries, burst and leak blood, leading to discoloration. While hickies are generally harmless, they can be embarrassing or unwanted, especially if they are visible.
If you’re looking for a quick cover-up, accessories like scarves, high collars, or turtlenecks can be your immediate go-to. Makeup concealer is also a handy temporary solution. However, these methods only conceal the hickey; they won’t speed up the healing process.
Unfortunately, there’s no magic trick to make a hickey disappear overnight. But, the following remedies and treatments can help accelerate the healing process and potentially shorten the lifespan of a hickey by a day or two.
1. Apply a Cold Compress or Chilled Spoon
In the first 24 to 48 hours after getting a hickey, applying cold therapy is crucial. A cold compress or a chilled spoon can significantly reduce swelling and minimize the bruise’s appearance. Cold temperatures help constrict blood vessels, slowing down blood flow to the affected area from the broken capillaries. This action can limit the size and intensity of the hickey.
To use a chilled spoon, place a spoon in the freezer or refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Once adequately chilled, apply it directly to the hickey. Keep it in place for approximately 10 minutes, and repeat this process several times within the first 48 hours or until you notice the bruise starting to fade. If you have an ice pack, it works just as effectively. Alternatively, a washcloth dampened with cold water serves as a convenient cold compress.
2. Utilize Aloe Vera Pulp for Inflammation
The gel-like pulp found inside an aloe vera leaf is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Aloe vera can be beneficial in reducing inflammation, skin swelling, and pain associated with a hickey. Research suggests that aloe vera can effectively reduce inflammation and promote healing.
To use aloe vera, extract the pulp from a fresh aloe vera leaf or use a pure aloe vera gel product. Apply a thin layer of the pulp or gel directly onto the hickey twice a day. If you experience any skin irritation or sensitivity, discontinue use immediately.
3. Massage with Peppermint Oil (Diluted)
Peppermint oil, rich in menthol, is believed to stimulate blood circulation in the applied area, which might accelerate the healing of bruises like hickies. Increased blood flow can help clear away the pooled blood causing the discoloration. However, it’s crucial to note that peppermint oil is potent and can cause skin irritation if used undiluted.
Always dilute peppermint oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. A recommended dilution ratio is 1 to 2 drops of peppermint oil to 15 drops of a carrier oil such as jojoba, almond, or coconut oil. Gently massage the diluted oil into the hickey area with light pressure. Avoid applying too much pressure, as it could potentially worsen the bruise.
4. Apply Cocoa Butter for Skin Elasticity
Cocoa butter is a popular ingredient in various skincare treatments, valued for its moisturizing and skin-enhancing properties. While scientific research on cocoa butter’s direct effect on bruises is mixed, many people advocate for its effectiveness in improving skin elasticity and reducing skin marks, including scars and stretch marks. This improvement in skin elasticity might help in diminishing the appearance of a hickey.
Apply a generous amount of cocoa butter cream to the hickey area once or twice daily. Gently massage it into the skin without applying excessive pressure, which could potentially enlarge the bruise.
5. Use Pineapple for its Bromelain Enzyme
Pineapple is a tropical fruit packed with bromelain, an enzyme known for its potential health benefits. Bromelain has been recognized for its anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties. When applied topically, bromelain may assist in reducing inflammation and swelling associated with bruises like hickies.
A simple way to use pineapple is to apply a fresh slice directly to the hickey. You can do this four to five times a day. However, be mindful of potential skin irritation, as pineapple is acidic and might irritate sensitive skin, especially on the neck. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or discontinue use.
6. Apply Vitamin K Cream
Vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting. Vitamin K cream, when applied topically, may expedite the healing process of bruises by promoting blood coagulation and helping the body reabsorb the leaked blood. Studies suggest that topical vitamin K can accelerate bruise resolution.
Apply vitamin K cream directly to the hickey once or twice daily. Consistent application might help in fading the hickey faster.
In addition to topical application, increasing your vitamin K intake through diet can be beneficial. Foods rich in vitamin K include leafy green vegetables, soybeans, pork, and poultry.
You can easily find vitamin K creams online or at most pharmacies.
7. Utilize Banana Peel for Soothing Effects
Don’t discard banana peels! Banana peels are rich in various vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. They are known to have soothing and calming effects on the skin and may help in reducing the signs of bruising and irritation associated with a hickey.
To use banana peel, simply apply the inner side directly onto your hickey. Leave it in place for about 30 minutes, or until the peel turns brown. You can repeat this treatment two to three times per day. If you notice any skin irritation, stop using banana peel immediately.
8. Apply Vitamin C Cream for Collagen Boost
Vitamin C is widely recognized for its immune-boosting properties, but it’s also vital for collagen production. Collagen is a protein that maintains skin strength and elasticity. Applying a vitamin C cream directly to a hickey may promote skin healing and help the bruise disappear more quickly. Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties can also aid in reducing discoloration.
Apply vitamin C cream to the bruised area as directed on the product label. Regular application might contribute to faster healing and fading of the hickey.
While these remedies can help speed up the healing process, remember that patience is key. A hickey is essentially a bruise, and like any bruise, it needs time to heal. If you are concerned about a hickey or if it doesn’t improve over time, consult a healthcare professional.
