Buzz
We've all had our share of bruises that are unsightly. Bruises take some time to heal, but there are ways to speed up the healing process and keep others from noticing the mark on your skin.
Steps
Medical Methods to Heal a Bruise
Apply ice to the bruise. Ice will help constrict the damaged blood vessels, preventing the bruise from spreading further.
Use an ice pack, a frozen vegetable bag, or a bag of frozen peas, for example.
Apply cold compress to the bruise for more than 15 minutes each hour.
After 24 hours, switch to a warm compress for the bruise. The heat will enhance blood circulation beneath the skin and help break down the blood clot.
Use a warm cloth or a hot water bottle.
Apply heat for at least one hour.
If possible, elevate the bruised leg or arm. Raising the bruised area will help the blood clot dissolve from the injured region.
Only elevate the bruised limb. Avoid attempting to raise other parts of your body.
Consume foods rich in vitamin C and flavonoids. These vitamins assist the body in regenerating collagen and supporting blood vessels.
- Foods include: citrus fruits, vegetables, bell peppers, pineapples, and plums.
Apply chamomile and aloe vera gel to the bruise. These plants contain compounds that help dilate blood vessels and accelerate the healing process.
Aloe vera and chamomile gel can be found at pharmacies near you.
Cover Bruises
Conceal bruises using clothing. This will help protect the bruised area from further pain or injury.
If the bruise is on your ankle, try wearing long socks or pants to hide your ankle.
If the bruise is on your arm, wear a headband or long-sleeved shirt.
Use makeup to cover the bruise. Your bruise might not be fully healed, but no one has to know about it!
Use a skin-colored cream to cover the bruise so it blends in with the surrounding skin. Apply a light, translucent powder on top to set it in place.
If you're inexperienced with concealer, ask someone skilled in makeup for assistance.
Advice
- Moisturizing the bruise will help it heal faster.
- If the bruise doesn’t fade after one or two weeks, or if you don’t remember how you got it, consult a doctor. It could be a sign of a more serious condition.
- Relax and avoid activities that cause pain or strain. Use gels or creams to soothe the area.
- Avoid touching the bruise as it could worsen the condition.
- Use concealer slightly lighter than your skin tone. Be sure to blend it evenly over the bruise and the surrounding area to avoid looking like you’re hiding something.
- Apply ice to the bruise as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading.
- Consult a doctor if the bruise is accompanied by swelling, severe pain, or redness.
Warnings
- Avoid letting the bruise make contact with hard surfaces or subjecting the bruised area to continuous pressure. This will cause pain and worsen the bruise.
