Bruises
10 quick ways to treat bruises effectively
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Cooling in the early phase
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Immediately after an injury it is sensible to cool the affected area – ideally within the first 30 minutes. Use ice cubes or cold packs wrapped in a towel to protect the skin. The cold causes blood vessels to constrict and reduces bleeding, which helps limit the formation of the bruise.
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Elevate to reduce blood flow
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If the bruise has formed on an arm or a leg, keep the limb elevated where possible to reduce blood flow. This supports the quick reduction of swelling and prevents significant enlargement of the affected area.
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Apply the PECH rule consistently
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The first-aid measure PECH stands for Pause, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Immediately after the trauma, press on the area for at least one minute with a spoon, your hand or a cold pack to limit the accumulation of blood.
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Warmth from the second day
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After the initial phase it is advisable to gently apply warmth to the area, for example with a hot-water bottle or a warm cloth. Moderate warmth stimulates circulation, allowing the immune system to break down the leaked fluid more quickly.
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- Use of vitamin K creams \n
Vitamin K supports blood clotting and can be applied locally to promote healing of bruises. To encourage the breakdown of the haematoma, creams containing vitamin K should be applied regularly.
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Heparin ointment for thick haematomas
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Heparin creams can help reduce the swelling of deep or pronounced bruises by promoting the drainage of tissue fluid. However, their effectiveness is debated, since heparin often does not penetrate deeply enough into the tissue.
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Arnica ointment as a gentle treatment
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Applying arnica gel or ointment to unbroken skin can reduce inflammation and support healing. Even though the exact mode of action is unclear, many people benefit from the additional massage effect when applying it, which stimulates circulation.
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Vinegar compresses to boost circulation
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Mix three tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of cold water, soak a cloth in it and place it over the bruise. Apply this compress three to four times daily. The vinegar, through its mild irritant effect, stimulates circulation and supports the healing process.
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Onion as a home remedy for small haematomas
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The essential oils in onion make the tissue contract and thus help stop further bleeding. After the initial cooling you can place half an onion on the area or carefully apply onion juice. This home remedy is particularly suited for smaller bruises.
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- Conceal with make-up and accessories \n
If the bruise is visible and you want to cover it quickly, use a colour‑correcting concealer that matches the tone of the haematoma, followed by a neutral foundation. Concealer sticks, scarves, bracelets or cleverly draped clothing can also help to hide the bruise discreetly.
editorial.facts
- Bruises occur when small blood vessels under the skin are damaged and blood leaks out. The blood collects under the skin and oxidises, causing the blue, purple or sometimes greenish discoloration.
- Sometimes a bruise appears in a different place than the injury itself. This happens when the leaked blood ‘travels’ under the influence of gravity to deeper skin areas. This is particularly common on arms or legs.
