Introduction
From time to time, we all make love bites on our partner’s neck, chest, or arm. However, what was once fun can turn into a headache once you realize you have a visible hickey that you can’t hide. A hickey, also known as a love bite, is caused by the suction and breaking of blood vessels underneath the skin. Not everyone wants to keep this as a reminder of their romantic moments. In this article, we’ll provide you with comprehensive information on how to get rid of hickeys.
Hickeys 101: The Complete Guide to Get Rid of Them
Before we dive into the ways of getting rid of hickeys, let’s first understand what causes them, how long they last, and more.
What causes a hickey?
A hickey is a result of sucking or kissing the skin too hard, causing blood vessels underneath the surface to rupture, causing a small bruise. This bruise can turn into a visible hickey once oxygen mixed with blood cells under the skin produces a reddish-purple area.
How long does a hickey last?
A hickey can last for a few days to a week or more depending on the size and severity of the bruise.
Will a hickey go away on its own?
Yes, a hickey will eventually go away on its own without treatment, but its lifespan will depend on the individual’s health. If you have a healthy immune system, the hickey will clear up faster. However, if you have weakened immunity, the hickey may last longer.
Importance of treating a hickey quickly
Treating a hickey quickly is essential if you don’t want to wait for it to disappear naturally. This is because the longer you wait, a more severe hickey will become, which can take longer to disappear. With that said, let’s delve into how to get rid of a hickey effectively.
5 Proven Ways to Quickly Erase a Hickey
If you need to get rid of a hickey fast, there are a few tried and tested methods that can help to diminish the appearance. Here are the five proven ways to quickly erase a hickey:
Massaging the hickey
Massage the hickey very gently using your fingers or a soft-bristled brush to reduce blood accumulation. Applying some massage oil on the affected area can help enhance blood flow. Dip your fingers into warm water after massaging to increase flow. This will help to break down blood clots and promote healing.
Using a warm compress
Warm compresses help to increase blood circulation, which can help the hickey to fade away quickly. Soak a cloth in hot water you can tolerate and apply it on the affected skin for about 10 to 20 minutes. Once it cools down, reheat and apply as needed.
Applying aloe vera
Aloe vera gel can help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, making it an excellent option for getting rid of a hickey. Apply aloe vera gel to the affected area and leave it on for at least fifteen minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. You can repeat this process a few times throughout the day.
Using a toothbrush
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to massage the affected area can help to break down the blood clots responsible for the hickey. Massage the area very lightly using circular motions for a minute or two. Ensure not to bruise the skin by pressing too hard.
Taking a pain reliever
A pain reliever that is safe for consumption like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with hickeys. It is advised to consult a physician before taking any medication to prevent allergic reactions or any other side effects.
The Top Home Remedies for Getting Rid of Hickeys
This section covers the top home remedies for treating hickeys. These remedies are highly effective, and you can find them in most households.
Cold spoon technique
The cold spoon technique helps to alleviate inflammation and redness around the affected area. The technique involves chilling a spoon in the refrigerator or freezer and pressing the inside part of the spoon over the hickey.
Banana peel
Banana peel is rich in antioxidants, making it a great remedy for getting rid of hickeys. Cut an inch-long piece of banana peel and place it on the affected area, ensuring the inside of the peel touches the hickey. Leave it on for about 30 minutes.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps to reduce skin inflammation and promote healing. Soak a small cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it on the hickey for about 10 minutes.
Essential oils
Essential oils like peppermint and lavender help to improve blood circulation and soothe the skin. Mix two to three drops of essential oil with a carrier oil and gently massage on the affected area.
Vitamin K cream
Vitamin K cream is known to reduce marks and destroy bruised skin cells, making it an effective treatment for hickeys. Apply a few drops of vitamin K cream over the hickey and gently rub with your fingers.
Hickey Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Concealing and Healing Love Bites
If you don’t want to wear a turtleneck sweater on a hot sunny day or don’t have makeup to conceal the hickey, here are some tips and tricks:
Clothing choices
Choose clothing that can cover the affected area, such as a jacket, a scarf or a turtleneck sweater. Wearing a high-collar shirt or blouse will cover the hickey perfectly.
Makeup Techniques
You can use makeup concealers that match your skin tone to cover the hickey. First, apply a yellow concealer around the bruised area then apply a concealer that matches your skin tone. Blend the concealer with your fingers to ensure it matches your skin tone.
Using a scarf
A scarf can help to camouflage a hickey effectively. Drape the scarf in a way that it strategically hides the hickey.
Tips for preventing future hickeys
If you want to avoid the discomfort of a hickey and the need to get rid of it, you can try the following tips:
- Be mindful: When you’re in the heat of the moment, it’s easy to get carried away with the kissing and sucking, but you need to be mindful of the force of the suction.
- Change the kissing location: Once you’ve given your partner a hickey, it’s best if you avoid the same area.
- Communicate: Communication is key when it comes to hickeys. Let your partner know if you’re uncomfortable with them giving you a hickey.
From Ice to Toothpaste: Experimenting with Different Hickey Removal Techniques
There are numerous DIY hickey removal techniques out there that you can try. However, not all of these techniques are reliable. Here’s an explanation of various DIY hickey removal techniques, how effective and safe they are, and recommendations on what to try and what to avoid:
The Dos and Don’ts of Treating a Hickey: Advice from Dermatologists and Beauty Experts
Before trying out any of the methods described above, you need to be aware of the do’s and don’ts when dealing with a hickey. These tips are compiled from dermatologists and beauty experts recommendations:
- Apply a cold compress immediately after getting a hickey to prevent swelling and pain.
- Do not massage the hickey too hard; doing so can cause more bruising and swelling.
- If the hickey lasts for more than two weeks or you experience extreme pain or in rare cases, difficulty breathing, consult a physician.
- Avoid using any technique which can cause harm or discomfort.
Conclusion
Having a hickey can be embarrassing and uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be. There are numerous ways to get rid of it or conceal it. However, the best way is to prevent it in the first place by being mindful of the force used when kissing or sucking. If you accidentally get a hickey, you can try out these proven methods to get rid of it fast. Remember to always be gentle and let it heal naturally if the methods above don’t help. Additionally, to prevent the hickey from reappearing, always communicate and set boundaries with your partner.
