Hickies, also known as love bites, are caused by a suction on the skin that causes broken blood vessels, resulting in a bruise-like mark. While some may wear a hickey as a badge of honor, others may feel self-conscious about it. Fortunately, there are a few tips and tricks to make hickies go away faster.
Understanding the Psychology of Hickies
Before diving into the tips and tricks to make hickies go away, it is important to understand the psychology behind why people give and receive hickies. A hickey is often seen as a sign of passion and love between two people. It can also be used as a way to mark one’s territory. However, not everyone may feel comfortable with revealing a hickey in public, which is why it is important to know how to make it go away quickly.
Tips and Tricks to Make Hickies Go Away Faster
Apply a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress immediately after getting a hickey can help reduce the swelling and redness. Wrap ice in a towel or use a cold spoon to gently apply pressure on the hickey. Hold the cold compress on the hickey for a few minutes at a time, with breaks in between. Repeat this process several times a day for the first two days to help reduce the appearance of the hickey.
Massage the Hickey
Massaging the hickey can help break up the clotted blood and increase blood circulation to the area. Use your fingers to gently rub the hickey in a circular motion for a few minutes, several times a day. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can cause further damage to the skin. You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently massage the hickey.
Apply Heat to the Area
After the first two days of applying a cold compress, switch to applying heat to the area. This can help increase blood flow and speed up the healing process. Soak a washcloth in hot water and wring out the excess water. Place the warm washcloth on the hickey for a few minutes at a time, several times a day.
Use Vitamin K Cream
Vitamin K cream is known for its ability to reduce bruising and help heal damaged skin. Apply a small amount of Vitamin K cream to the hickey and gently massage it into the skin. Repeat this process a few times a day until the hickey fades away.
Use Concealer or Foundation
If you need to cover up a hickey quickly, you can use concealer or foundation to match your skin tone. Apply a small amount of the product to the hickey and blend it in with your fingers or a makeup sponge. Be sure to choose a product that is long-lasting and waterproof, as hickies can be difficult to hide.
Preventing Hickies
Communicate with Your Partner
If you are not comfortable with receiving hickies, it is important to communicate that with your partner. Let them know that you do not want any marks on your skin and that you prefer more subtle forms of affection.
Use Protection
Hickies can be caused by excessive sucking or biting on the skin during kissing or other intimate acts. Using protection, such as a condom or dental dam, can help prevent the formation of hickies.
Be Gentle
When engaging in intimate acts with your partner, be gentle with your movements and avoid applying too much suction or pressure on the skin. This can help prevent the formation of hickies or minimize their appearance.
Conclusion
While hickies may be seen as a sign of passion and love, not everyone may feel comfortable with revealing them in public. Fortunately, there are a few tips and tricks to make hickies go away faster. Applying a cold compress, massaging the hickey, applying heat to the area, using Vitamin K cream, and using concealer or foundation are all effective ways to make hickies go away quickly. To prevent hickies, communicate with your partner, use protection, and be gentle with your movements during intimate acts.
Common Questions and Answers
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Q: How long do hickies last?
A: It usually takes about 5 to 12 days for a hickey to completely heal. -
Q: Can hickies cause any health issues?
A: While hickies are generally harmless, they can cause some discomfort and embarrassment. In rare cases, they can also cause complications, such as infections or blood clots, especially if they occur on the neck or face. -
Q: How do I know if a hickey is serious?
A: If a hickey causes severe pain or swelling, or if it does not go away within two weeks, you should seek medical attention.
References:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hickies
- https://www.healthline.com/health/hickey#treatment
- https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/sex-and-love/how-to-get-rid-of-hickies
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-hickey/basics/art-20056669