how long does it take for hickeys to go away

Hickeys form when the small blood vessels beneath your skin break, resulting in a visible bruise that can last anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks. To conceal one, you might need turtlenecks or concealer touch-ups. Within a day or two, the hickey darkens as hemoglobin in your blood changes color. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein responsible for the red color of blood. By day four or five, the hickey starts fading in some areas. Hickey marks can appear within 5 to 10 minutes, and the duration and intensity depend on the sucking pressure – longer and harder sucking leads to darker and more intense bruising.

How Long Does It Take for Hickeys to Go Away?

Introduction

Hickeys, also known as love bites or kiss marks, are a common occurrence in romantic relationships. These marks are caused by suction and pressure on the skin, which result in broken blood vessels beneath the surface. While hickeys are usually harmless and temporary, they can be a cause of embarrassment or concern for some people. In this article, we will explore what hickeys are, how long they typically last, and methods to speed up their healing process.

Understanding Hickeys

What Are Hickeys?

A hickey is a bruise-like mark that appears on the skin, typically on the neck, chest, or arm, after intense kissing or sucking on the skin. The pressure applied during this action causes blood vessels to break, leading to the characteristic reddish or purple discoloration.

Why Do Hickeys Form?

Hickeys form due to the rupture of capillaries beneath the skin. When the skin is subjected to prolonged suction or pressure, the tiny blood vessels are damaged, and blood leaks into the surrounding tissues, giving rise to the visible mark.

How Long Do Hickeys Last?

The duration of a hickey’s presence varies from person to person and depends on several factors such as:

1. Intensity of the Hickey

The more intense the sucking or kissing, the more likely the hickey is to last longer.

2. Individual Healing Ability

Each person’s body heals at a different rate, so the time it takes for a hickey to fade can vary.

3. Location of the Hickey

Areas with more blood flow may heal faster than those with lesser blood circulation.

How to Make Hickeys Go Away Faster?

If you want to speed up the healing process of a hickey, here are some tips to consider:

1. Apply a Cold Compress

As soon as you notice the hickey, apply a cold compress to the area. The cold temperature helps constrict blood vessels, reducing the extent of internal bleeding and the size of the hickey.

2. Use Arnica Gel

Arnica gel or cream is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Applying a small amount to the hickey can aid in reducing swelling and discoloration.

3. Massage the Area

Gently massaging the hickey helps disperse the pooled blood and aids in the healing process. However, avoid applying excessive pressure, as it may worsen the bruise.

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4. Warm Compress After 48 Hours

After 48 hours of the hickey’s formation, switch to warm compresses. The warmth will promote blood circulation and help the body reabsorb the trapped blood.

5. Keep the Area Elevated

Raising the affected area above the heart level can prevent blood from pooling and reduce the hickey’s intensity.

6. Vitamin K Cream

Topical creams containing vitamin K can be beneficial in breaking down blood clots and reducing the appearance of hickeys.

Conclusion

Hickeys, though temporary, can be an unwelcome sight for some individuals. While there is no instant cure for hickeys, following the above methods can help expedite the healing process. Remember that each person’s body reacts differently, so the time it takes for a hickey to vanish completely may vary. Embrace open communication with your partner to avoid any awkwardness or misunderstanding regarding hickeys.

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