Bruises are caused due to trauma, therefore they are a common result of injectable treatments and are sometimes unavoidable!
A bruise is called by small blood vessels near the skin surface are broken and they bleed under the skin. The blood then leaks out of the vessel, pooling and causing discoloration, what we know as a bruise. The pooled blood gets slowly reabsorbed into the body. During the healing process the bruise will appear a greenish yellow colour, then finally disappear. Smaller bruises can be reabsorbed in 48 hours, whereas larger bruises can take 2-3 weeks to fully heal.
1. ICE
Apply ice immediately after your treatment. The quicker you use the cold compress, the more you minimize bruising. This will slow blood flow around the area by cooling the blood vessels. This can prevent swelling and make the bruise less visible. Ice the bruise for 10 minutes at a time. Wait 20 minutes before reapplying. Continue with this for 24-48 hours following your treatment. At this state avoid massaging the bruise or applying heat because it may make the bruise larger by damaging more blood vessels. Remember not to put ice directly onto your bruise, ensure you protect your skin. It’s OK to put ice on your bruise several times a day if you take regular breaks. We recommend using one of the reusable cool packs provided at our clinic.
2. HEAT
After 48 hours, a warm compress can be used on the treatment area. You can apply heat to boost circulation and increase blood flow. This will help to clear away the trapped blood breaking the bruise apart after it has formed encouraging lymphatic drainage. Applying heat can also relieve any discomfort and loosen tense muscles. You can use a heating pad, a warm flannel, or a hot water bottle. Having in a hot bath is another option. You can do this several times a day, but ensure you are taking short breaks, it is more effective in bursts of 10-20 minutes every 1-2 hours.
3. REST
Ensure you are not overly active the day of your appointment! Speeding up your pulse and circulation will increase the blood flow and encourage more blood to pool in the treatment area. We know that we don’t have to be told twice! Its a good excuse to put your feet up!
4. PAIN RELIEF
You may experience some discomfort for 2-3 days following your treatment. It is recommended to take paracetamol. Avoid taking ibuprofen or aspirin, as this can increase in bleeding by thinning the blood and worsen the appearance of bruising. We advise to take an antihistamine to aid with swelling and irritation.
5. ELEVATION
Elevating the treatment area to ensure it is above the heart will aid to drain any fluid from the area. This can help to relieve pain and pressure. If the treatment area is your face or lips it is recommended to remain sat upright for a few hours afterwards and sleep with an extra pillow the evening of your procedure.
6. VITAMIN C
This vitamin has anti-inflammatory properties and supports the body in wound healing. You can find gels, creams, or serums containing vitamin C, to apply topically. However, you can also take it as a supplement. A Vitamin C rich diet and eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables will strengthen capillaries and skin lessening the likelihood of bruising. Vitamin C is also good for overall skin health. Combined with vitamin E it can increase the rate of cell and tissue reconstruction.
7. COMPRESSION
We recognise that this can be difficult in terms of aesthetics treatments! And we do not recommend you use compression as a part of aftercare for lip or facial filler treatments, but it is important to acknowledge as a good way to support the healing of bruises. Compression will support the bodies tissues and help prevent blood vessels from leaking or pooling blood any further. Using compression can lessen the size and severity of the bruise and helping to reduce swelling and pain.
8. HIRUDOID CREAM
Hirudoid cream reduces of swelling and inflammation it can also promote tissue regeneration. The cream should be massaged into the bruised area twice daily after the first 48 hours, avoiding any open cuts or wounds.
9. NATURAL REMEDIES
Several natural substances aid in getting rid of a bruise more quickly, including:
· ARNICA: cream or gel may help lessen the effects of a bruise and reduce inflammation. It should never be used on broken skin and people who suffer from eczema or other skin conditions should be cautious.
· PINEAPPLE: A group of enzymes called Bromelain found in the pineapple, may help speed up the healing process of the bruise.
· ALOE VERA: This plant contains vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that soothe and moisturize the skin. It is beneficial in treating many skin conditions, including bruises. It may also play a part in reducing pain and inflammation. Aloe vera can be applied topically, the gel should be pure aloe and not contain any additives.
· VITAMIN K: Phytonadione, known as vitamin K1, can speed up the healing of bruising. Vitamin K clarifying cream is recommended to strengthen the skin.
· PARSLEY: Some experts believe that parsley aids the healing process. A handful of freshly crushed parsley leaves over the bruise is said to promote healing. We advise to be cautionary if you would like to try this and ensure that the open wounds are fully healed.
Despite trying most or all the above, unfortunately for us… the best healing treatment for bruising is time! Bruising may take a few weeks to heal but using some of the advice may help in speeding up the process! Keep an eye on your progression, it may be a good idea to keep a diary or photograph your bruise at different stages of healing. Check out our blog on the healing stages of a bruise.
Contact your injector or clinic if:
· You are still experiencing pain after three days
· you develop a bump, or the swelling does not lessen
· you seem to be bruising for no reason
· The area is hot to the touch