Hickeys, also known as love bites or bruises, occur when blood vessels under the skin break, usually due to sucking or biting the skin. While they may be seen as a sign of affection, they can be a source of embarrassment, especially when they appear in visible areas like the neck. If you’re looking for ways to get rid of a hickey fast, there are several remedies that can help reduce the appearance and speed up the healing process.
In this article, we will explore seven effective remedies that actually work how to get rid of a hickey fast. Whether you’re preparing for an important event or just want to hide the hickey for personal reasons, these remedies are tried and tested to provide relief.
Apply a Cold Compress
One of the most effective methods for reducing the appearance of a hickey is by using a cold compress. The cold temperature helps constrict the blood vessels, which can prevent the bruise from spreading and reduce swelling.
How to Apply a Cold Compress:
- Wrap some ice cubes in a clean cloth or use a cold pack.
- Gently apply it to the hickey for 10 to 20 minutes.
- Repeat this process a few times a day for the first 48 hours after the hickey appears.
This method works best right after the hickey forms, as it helps to limit the damage by restricting blood flow to the area. However, it’s important not to apply ice directly to the skin, as this could lead to frostbite.
Massage the Area
Massage is another effective remedy to get rid of a hickey fast. Gently massaging the area can help break down the blood clot that causes the purple or red discoloration. Massaging also improves blood circulation in the area, which promotes faster healing.
How to Massage a Hickey:
- Use your fingers to gently massage the area in a circular motion.
- Apply light pressure to avoid causing additional bruising.
- Massage the hickey a few times a day for about 10 minutes each session.
While massaging can be helpful, you should avoid being too aggressive, as it may worsen the hickey. Gentle pressure and consistency are key to making this technique effective.
Use Heat After the First 48 Hours
Once the first 48 hours have passed, you can switch from cold treatment to heat. Heat helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can help disperse the blood that has pooled beneath the skin and accelerate the healing process. Applying heat can also relax the muscles and reduce any discomfort associated with the hickey.
How to Apply Heat:
- Use a warm compress or a heating pad.
- Place it over the hickey for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
- Repeat this process a few times a day after the initial 48-hour period.
Be cautious not to apply excessive heat to the skin, as this can cause burns. The heat should be warm, not scalding.
Apply Arnica Cream or Gel
Arnica is a natural herb that has been used for centuries to reduce bruising, swelling, and inflammation. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular remedy for treating hickeys. Arnica is available in various forms, including creams, gels, and ointments, and can be applied directly to the skin to speed up healing.
How to Use Arnica:
- Apply a thin layer of arnica gel or cream to the hickey.
- Gently massage it in to ensure it penetrates the skin.
- Use it 2 to 3 times a day until the hickey fades.
Arnica can be found in most health stores, and it’s a safe and effective way to reduce the appearance of a hickey. Just be sure to do a patch test before applying it to a larger area of your skin to ensure you don’t have any allergic reactions.
Use Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is another natural remedy known for its soothing and healing properties. It can help reduce swelling, provide relief from discomfort, and promote faster healing of the bruise. Aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help your skin recover from the trauma caused by a hickey.
How to Use Aloe Vera:
- Cut a fresh aloe vera leaf and extract the gel.
- Apply the gel directly to the hickey and massage it in.
- Leave the gel on the skin for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this process 2 to 3 times a day.
Aloe vera is not only effective for treating hickeys but is also great for soothing any irritation or pain that may accompany them. The cooling effect of aloe vera can also provide immediate relief, making it a great option for when you want to reduce swelling.
Try Vitamin K Cream
Vitamin K is known for its ability to help with blood clotting and healing bruises. It plays a vital role in helping the body repair damaged tissues and can significantly speed up the recovery time for a hickey. Vitamin K creams are available over-the-counter and can be applied directly to the affected area.
How to Use Vitamin K Cream:
- Apply a small amount of Vitamin K cream to the hickey.
- Gently massage it in to help with absorption.
- Use it 2 to 3 times a day until the hickey disappears.
This remedy works especially well when combined with other treatments, such as cold compresses or massaging, to enhance the healing process. Vitamin K is commonly found in topical creams, which are easy to apply and non-invasive.
Apply a Toothbrush or Finger Tap Method
Another unconventional but effective method to get rid of a hickey fast is by using a toothbrush or your fingers to gently tap or brush the skin. This technique can help break up the blood clot and redistribute the blood more evenly throughout the skin, which may reduce the appearance of the hickey.
How to Apply the Toothbrush or Finger Tap Method:
- Take a soft-bristled toothbrush or your fingers and gently tap or brush the hickey in small circular motions.
- Apply light pressure to avoid causing more bruising.
- Perform this for a few minutes, several times a day.
The idea behind this method is to stimulate circulation in the affected area, which can encourage the blood to spread more evenly. However, this should be done with caution, as too much pressure could worsen the bruising.
Conclusion
A hickey can be embarrassing, but with the right remedies, you can get rid of it quickly and effectively. Applying a cold compress immediately after the hickey forms, massaging the area, using heat after 48 hours, and trying natural remedies like arnica, aloe vera, and Vitamin K cream can help reduce the discoloration and speed up the healing process.
Remember that everyone’s skin heals at a different rate, so while these remedies can significantly improve the appearance of your hickey, they may take some time. If you’re in a hurry, using a combination of these methods and being consistent with treatment will help you get rid of a hickey fast.
