What to Do When You’re Black and Blue

Bruising is a normal part of life, especially for active kids and clumsy adults. Soft tissues of the body are easily injured by bumps, blows, or falls, and when that happens, blood pools under the skin to form a bruise. Other than discoloration and soreness, these kinds of bruises are not a cause of concern and will go away on their own.

Unfortunately, it can take up to 2 weeks or more for unsightly marks to fade, depending on the location. Even if bruises seem unavoidable, there are ways to speed up healing and help your skin go from black and blue to beautiful faster.

The R.I.C.E. Method

Like with athletic injuries or surgery, the R.I.C.E. method (which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation) can limit the pain and swelling of bruises. Start this treatment as soon as possible after minor injury to reduce bruise formation and repeat every three hours for the first two days.

Heat Application

Heat will boost circulation to the area and flush away fluid under the skin. Try this after the R.I.C.E. method or on bruises that have already formed by using a hot water bottle, heating pad, or warm bath. For facial bruises, a washcloth moistened with hot water can easily be placed over the face.

Anti-Bruise Foods

According to Cleveland Clinic recommendations, a diet with enough vitamin C and vitamin K can help keep skin bruise-free. Load up on green, leafy vegetables, which contain the highest amounts of vitamin K to support healthy blood clotting. Vitamin C, easily found in citrus fruits, increases collagen production that strengthens blood vessels. 

Arnica Montana

Centuries ago, mountain climbers in the Alps turned to a native flower called Arnica montana to naturally heal their pains and injuries. You can find this same plant as the active ingredient in Arnigel. Designed to spot treat the pain, swelling, and discoloration of bruises, this unscented gel cools on contact and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no greasy or sticky residue. It works best when used soon after impact, so make sure you keep some handy in your medicine cabinet, kitchen, or purse for quick application.

Arnigel is available at Mannings. Shop online