1. Immediate Care:

• Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress wrapped in a cloth to the bruised area for 15-20 minutes every hour for the first day. This helps reduce swelling and minimizes bruising.
• Elevation: If possible, keep your head elevated, especially when sleeping. This helps to reduce blood flow to the face and can minimize swelling.

2. Care for Bruised Skin:

• Arnica Gel or Cream: Apply arnica gel or cream to the bruised area. Arnica is a natural remedy that can help reduce bruising and swelling. Follow the instructions on the packaging.
• Avoid Heat: Do not apply heat to the bruised area for the first 48 hours. Heat can increase blood flow and worsen the bruising.
• Gentle Massage: After 48 hours, gently massage the bruised area. This can help disperse the trapped blood under the skin and reduce the appearance of the bruise.

3. Attenuating Bruise Duration and Concealing Bruises:

• Diet: Consume foods rich in Vitamin K (such as kale, spinach, and broccoli) which can help with blood clotting and bruise healing.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and support the healing process.
• Makeup: Once the skin is no longer broken (after the initial 24-48 hours), you can use makeup to conceal the bruise. Use a color corrector (yellow or peach-based) under your concealer to neutralize the bruise’s color.
• Sun Protection: Protect the bruised area from direct sunlight. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to prevent further skin damage.

4. Expected Signs During Healing:

• Color Changes: Bruises typically change color over time, starting from red or purple and fading to green or yellow before disappearing completely.
• Tenderness: It’s common for the bruised area to be tender to the touch during the healing process.
• Itchiness: Some itchiness might occur as the bruise heals. Do not scratch; instead, apply a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer.

5. Unexpected Signs and When to Seek Medical Attention:

• Increased Pain: If the pain around the bruised area worsens or becomes intolerable.
• Signs of Infection: If you notice increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus-like discharge from the bruised area.
• Numbness or Tingling: If you experience numbness or tingling around the bruised area.

Remember, every individual heals differently. It’s crucial to be patient during the healing process. If you have concerns, we encourage you to contact our expert clinical staff for personalized advice and guidance. If you observe any of these unexpected signs, contact your be Medispa provider promptly at 859.266.5483 or afterhours 859.266.0117