How To Remove Hickey
Hickeys are all known as love bites. They are bruises that are caused by simply sucking or biting those skin. While they are harmless, they can be further embarrassing if you do not wish people to notice them. The good news is, there are several how to remove hickey and help them heal faster. If you are looking for simple tips on how to remove hickey marks, this guide will help.
Hickeys fade naturally within a few days to a week, but with some effort, you can speed up the process. Below mentioned are five effective ways to know how to remove hickey.
What Causes a Hickey?
A hickey forms when tiny blood vessels under the skin, called capillaries, break due to intense pressure. The blood leaks into the surrounding tissues, causing discoloration that ranges from red to purple. As the body heals, the color fades until it eventually disappears.
Now, let’s explore ways on how to remove hickey.
1. Apply a Cold Compress
One of the best remedies for how to remove hickey marks quickly is using a cold compress. Cold treatment reduces swelling, slows blood flow, and helps the bruise heal faster.
How to Do It:
- Wrap ice cubes in a cloth or use a cold spoon after placing it in the freezer for 10 minutes.
- Gently press the compress against the hickey for about 10-15 minutes.
- Repeat this process numerous times in the same day during those first 48 hours.
Do not apply ice directly to the skin. This can all lead to frostbite like condition.
2. Massage the Area
Massaging the hickey can help disperse the clotted blood under the skin and improve circulation, which aids healing.
How to Do It:
- Use those fingers quite gently and rub the hickey right in a good circular motion.
- Start right from the center of the hickey and move it inside to out.
- Do this for 2-3 minutes, several times a day.
Be gentle to avoid making the bruise worse.
3. Use a Warm Compress
After 48 hours, switch to a warm compress. Heat improves blood flow to the area, helping the body break down the clotted blood and remove the discoloration.
How to Do It:
- Soak those well using clean cloth in super warm water and wring out the excess.
- Press the cloth against the hickey for 10 minutes.
- Repeat this 2-3 times a day.
You can also use a heating pad or a warm bottle for this purpose.
4. Apply Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is known and holds soothing and healing properties. It can reduce inflammation, hydrate the skin, and speed up the healing process.
How to Do It:
- Extract some of the fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf or make use of some store-bought aloe vera gel.
- Apply a thin layer of gel over the hickey and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Repeat this 2-3 times daily for the best results.
5. Try Over-the-Counter Creams or Remedies
There are creams and ointments available at pharmacies that can help fade bruises, including hickeys. Look for products containing ingredients like arnica, vitamin K, or witch hazel.
How to Use Them:
- Follow the instructions on the product packaging.
- Apply the cream to the hickey as directed.
These creams work by reducing inflammation and helping the body reabsorb the trapped blood.
How Long Does a Hickey Last?
A hickey typically lasts 5-10 days, depending on its severity and your skin’s healing ability. With the methods listed above, you may be able to reduce the time it takes for the hickey to fade.
What Not to Do
While you focus on how to remove hickeys, there are a few things you should avoid:
- Do not scratch or pick at the hickey. This can worsen the bruise or cause irritation.
- Avoid applying too much pressure. Rough handling can make the bruise worse.
- Do not expose it to direct sunlight. Sun exposure can darken the bruise and slow healing.
Prevention Tips
The best way to avoid dealing with hickeys is to prevent them altogether. Here are a few tips:
- Communicate with your partner about avoiding marks during intimacy.
- If a hickey is accidental, use immediate cold treatment to minimize its appearance.
Conclusion
Hickeys may be harmless, but they can be a source of embarrassment. If you’re searching for ways to remove hickey marks, these five methods can help speed up the healing process. From cold and warm compresses to aloe vera and over-the-counter creams, there are plenty of options to try.
Remember, patience is key. While these remedies can reduce the hickey’s appearance, it is essential to let your body heal naturally. With a little care and effort, your skin will be back to normal in no time.