What is a Hickey?
A hickey, also known as a love bite or a kiss mark, is a bruise-like mark caused by sucking or biting the skin. When someone kisses or sucks on your skin aggressively, they may break small blood vessels under the surface, resulting in a hickey.
How long do hickeys last?
The duration of a hickey typically depends on various factors, such as the severity of the hickey and your body’s healing process. On average, it takes about 5 to 12 days for a hickey to heal completely.
Tips and Tricks for Removing a Hickey:
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress as soon as possible can help reduce blood flow to the area and minimize the size of the hickey. Wrap some ice cubes in a clean cloth and gently press it against the hickey for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Warm Compress: After 48 hours, when the hickey has already formed, applying a warm compress can encourage blood circulation and aid in healing. Soak a clean towel in warm water, wring out the excess, and gently place it on the hickey for about 10 minutes.
- Massage: Massaging the hickey can help break up the clotted blood and disperse it, accelerating the healing process. Use your fingers to gently massage the area in a circular motion for a few minutes a few times a day.
- Toothbrush: After a couple of days, when the hickey is no longer as tender, gently brush over the affected area with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This helps stimulate blood circulation and speeds up the healing process.
- Concealing: If you need to hide the hickey quickly, you can use makeup techniques. Apply a green-tinted color corrector to neutralize the redness of the hickey, then layer with a concealer that matches your skin tone. Blend it well and set it with powder for a natural look.
Prevention is better than cure:
While it’s not always easy to prevent hickeys, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk:
- Communicate with your partner about boundaries and limits.
- Be cautious during passionate moments to avoid excessive sucking or biting.
- Use your hands or lips instead of teeth if you want to leave a mark.
- Wear clothing that covers sensitive areas.
- Consider using a scarf or a turtleneck to hide any marks.
By following these tips and tricks, you should be able to remove a hickey quickly and with minimal effort. Remember, patience is key, and it’s essential to let your body heal naturally. If you have any concerns or the hickey doesn’t improve within a reasonable time frame, consult a healthcare professional.