Introduction
Have you ever been embarrassed by a hickey? Whether it was given intentionally or not, hickeys can be an unsightly problem that needs to be addressed. In this article, we will discuss what a hickey is and how you can get rid of one. We will also provide tips and tricks to help prevent them from happening in the first place.
Understanding Hickeys
A hickey, also known as a love bite, is essentially damaged blood vessels underneath the skin that results from excessive suction or kissing on the skin. Hickeys are usually purple or red in color and may seem like a bruise. They can be located on any part of the body that has skin and is easily accessible, typically the neck, arms, and chest.
Hickeys are caused by excessive suction which breaks blood vessels underneath the skin. Individuals vary in their susceptibility to developing hickeys. Those with thinner skin or skin with less pigment are more prone to develop a hickey.
The duration of a hickey typically depends on the severity of the bruise. While some may fade away in a few hours, others may take up to 14 days to completely resolve. The reason why they change color over time is that blood is reabsorbed into the body as it heals.
Treating Hickeys
When it comes to treating a hickey, there are a variety of options available. Each option may have its own set of benefits and risks.
One of the most commonly recommended treatments is icing the affected area. Icing helps reduce swelling and prevent further damage to the skin. You can use an ice pack or a cold spoon and place it directly on the hickey for five to ten minutes, several times a day.
Another option is applying heat to stimulate blood flow. You can warm up a compress, and place it on the hickey for five to ten minutes, several times a day. This can help alleviate bruising and improve the circulation of blood.
If you want to go the topical cream route, there are numerous options available on the market, such as Vitamin K cream, Arnica Gel, or aloe vera. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them closely to reduce the risk of side effects.
Natural Remedies
If you prefer a natural remedy for hickeys, there are a variety of solutions you can do at home. One option is massaging the affected area. Massaging can help break up the blood clot and speed up the healing process. You can use your fingers or a warm compress and massage the hickey in a circular motion for several minutes, several times a day.
Another option is applying vitamin K cream or green tea bags to the hickey. Vitamin K is known to improve blood circulation and helps to heal the bruise faster. You can apply Vitamin K cream over the hickey two to three times a day to help speed up healing. For green tea bags, soak them in warm water and place them on the hickey for 5 to 10 minutes, several times a day. The antioxidants in green tea help to reduce inflammation and bruising.
Preventing Hickeys
The best way to prevent a hickey is, of course, to avoid excessive suction on the skin. However, that is not a realistic expectation for everyone. So, some tips to reduce the risk include experimenting with different kissing techniques, starting off slowly, and stopping before the skin is affected.
If you are prone to developing hickeys, consider wearing a high-collared shirt or scarf to cover the affected area until the hickey has healed. Additionally, you can communicate with your partner about your preferences and set better boundaries to avoid this problem altogether.
Hickey Trivia, Stories, or Myths
If you’re curious about the history of hickeys, there are many facts, stories, and myths to be discovered. Did you know that ancient Egyptians used suction therapy for medical purposes? And that in some cultures, hickeys are seen as a sign of possession rather than a mark of passion?
It is also interesting to note that several famous people have been photographed with hickeys, such as Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle. Even President Barack Obama was photographed with a hickey on his neck during his time in college.
Conclusion
If you find yourself with a hickey, don’t worry, there are numerous ways to treat and prevent them. By using the methods outlined in this article, you can speed up the healing process and reduce the likelihood of getting another hickey in the future. Don’t let a hickey ruin your day, take action and reclaim your skin’s integrity.
