July 4, 2024

Health

Overly passionate kiss: how to get rid of a hickey quickly?

Did a moment of passion leave a little too much of an imprint on your skin? Don't worry, you're neither the first nor the last to end up with a hickey after a kiss that was a little too... sensual. Before you resign yourself to wearing scarves in the middle of summer, take a deep breath!

At ONY today, we're explaining how to get rid of a hickey and speed up your healing . Together, let's explore the best tips to say goodbye to this "love bite" :)

What is a hickey? A brief biology lesson

You've all heard of them, some of you have even proudly displayed them or, on the contrary, tried to hide them. But what exactly is a hickey , from a biological point of view?

When a part of the skin is sucked or bitten with a certain intensity, it can cause the small blood vessels, known as capillaries, to rupture . Think of them as tiny pipes carrying blood. When they break, blood escapes and spreads beneath the skin's surface.

→ Read also : How to make love without penetration?

From pink to purple: the color palette of the hickey

This process creates what we commonly call a hematoma, or more precisely in this context, a hickey.

Its color, which varies between red, pink, and purple, depends on the amount of blood accumulated and your skin's reaction. It's your body's way of telling you something is happening. A bit like a bruise after an impact!

The fate of the hickey

Like any bruise, a hickey isn't permanent . It will fade over time as the body repairs these small "damages".

In the meantime, it might be helpful to know how to get rid of it or speed up its healing. But be patient, we'll come back to that later in the article :)

4 false beliefs about hickeys

We've all heard these persistent myths about hickeys, but what's the truth? Let's explore some of the most common beliefs:

"The hickey disappears in the blink of an eye."

Some people think that a hickey fades as quickly as it appeared. However, it can persist for several days, or even a week or more, before disappearing completely.

"Only the neck is affected"

Don't be fooled, a hickey can appear on any part of the body. Especially where the skin is thin and delicate. If there are marks on your neck, it's possible that other areas of your body will also show traces of these "love bites."

"Hips are harmless to your health."

Although generally harmless, they are not always without consequences. In rare cases, they can cause complications. It is therefore best to treat them with caution and consult a doctor if any abnormal symptoms appear.

"The older you are, the fewer hickeys you get."

Many people consider hickeys to be the domain of young lovers. However, regardless of age, anyone can get one! Skin may change over time, but the body remains susceptible to hickeys, whether you're a teenager or more mature.

The facts you need to know

Now that we have cleared up the myths surrounding hickeys, let's look at some essential facts to know about this "love bite" .

The healing time varies

Every hickey is as unique as the person who has it. Some disappear within a few days, while others can linger for a week or more. Your skin type, age, and even diet can influence how long they last. So, patience and gentleness are key.

The psychological and social implications

Having a visible hickey , especially on the neck, just minutes before a meeting or date can lead to judgment and hurtful comments. This mark can tarnish your professional image and impact your mental well-being. That's why many people actively seek an effective method to get rid of their hickey in record time.

Prevention and communication with the partner:

The best way to deal with a hickey ? Talk about it before it even appears! If you're not comfortable with the idea of having one, let your partner know. And conversely, if you want one as a souvenir of a passionate night, why not? The important thing is to be on the same page.

Neck Bite GIF from Neck GIFs

Health risks

Hickeys aren't just a sign of affection; they can also have implications for our health . What are the hidden risks behind these little purple marks?

They can transmit herpes.

If your partner is a carrier of the herpes virus and gives you a hickey, it is possible that they could transmit the disease to you.

They can become scars.

Especially if your skin is sensitive and prone to scarring, or if the hickey is particularly severe.

They can cause strokes in rare cases

Indeed, in rare cases, if done with excessive pressure or in a particularly delicate area, a hickey can increase the risk of stroke .

Now that you are aware of these potential risks, let's move on to solutions for mitigating these unwanted marks.

How to get rid of a hickey? Tips you need to know

Although hickeys often evoke steamy memories, in the light of day, these marks can be embarrassing . Who hasn't felt that little pang of self-consciousness upon discovering a hickey on their neck before a workday, an important meeting, or a family meal?

That's why we're sharing tips with you on how to say goodbye to those marks and answer that vital question: how do you get rid of a hickey?

The cooling power of cold

In the first few minutes after getting a hickey, you can try applying cold. Not only can this help reduce the size of the small bruise, but it can also lessen its redness. Use a cold compress or ice cubes wrapped in a towel (without direct contact with the skin) and gently apply it to the affected area. This technique will cause the blood vessels to constrict, thus reducing blood flow to the affected area. The result? A hickey that loses its intensity.

The spoon trick: when the kitchen saves the day

If you thought spoons were only for your favorite desserts, think again.

For this little secret, put a spoon in the fridge for about ten minutes . Then, use the back of the chilled spoon to gently press on the hickey . Combining the cold with light pressure can help reduce the redness of your skin.

And what's more, it's quite pleasant!

Getting a good massage: the key to circulation

Gently massage the area , for example, with a soft-bristled toothbrush; this will stimulate blood circulation. You can massage with oil or cream containing vitamin K, which are excellent for the skin and will help speed up the healing of bruises.

This method helps to dissipate the accumulated blood. Little by little, the color will fade, and the hickey will be less visible.

A woman holding a spoon with an ice cube

Grandma's tips: naturally effective

Our grandmothers are always right! They have a remedy for everything. For those stubborn hickeys, here's what they would advise:

Arnica oil

It is often recommended for reducing bruising. By gently applying this oil to the hickey, it can help diminish its appearance and speed up healing. A small amount of oil is enough to achieve noticeable results.

Aloe vera gel

Renowned for its soothing properties, it's a must-have for getting rid of a hickey faster. You can put the aloe vera gel in the fridge before using it for a cooling sensation on the affected area.

Banana peel

It's an unusual method, but one that has proven effective. Apply the inside of a banana peel to your hickey. This should speed up the healing process.

Tea tree essential oil

It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Applying a few drops of this oil could greatly help heal your hickey.

Treat with heat

Once the hickey has gone down, apply a gentle heat source. This can stimulate blood circulation and speed up healing.

And you, have you ever had to get rid of an unwelcome hickey before an important meeting?

The art of camouflage: when cosmetics and accessories come to your rescue!

No matter what anyone says, a hickey doesn't disappear with the snap of a finger! If this little passionate souvenir is proving a bit too persistent, gentlemen, know that other tricks exist:

Clothing and accessories

If your hickey is proving stubborn, consider scarves, high collars, or shirts buttoned high. A well-chosen accessory or strategically placed garment can camouflage a hickey.

All you can do is hope that it doesn't happen in the summer :)

Cosmetic products

Don't worry, if this happens in the summer, there's always the makeup option!

Yes, you read that right, gentlemen! With a well-chosen concealer or a foundation base adapted to your masculine complexion, you can make the trace of this... ahem... moment of indiscretion disappear.

And if your toiletry bag is sorely lacking in these magical tools, why not discreetly borrow your wife's? After all, who said masculinity couldn't go hand in hand with cosmetics? 😉

How Make Up Works Brush GIF from How Make Up Works GIFs

→ Read also : 15 fascinating facts about morning erections

How to get rid of a hickey: what you need to know

A hickey often reminds us of a burning passion . However, when romance gives way to reality, many seek remedies to speed up the healing of their skin .

While cold weather, camouflage, or old wives' tales are all effective solutions, it is crucial to remember that caution and communication with your partner remain the best prevention.

Thanks to our tips and advice , you are now equipped to answer the question: "How do I get rid of a hickey quickly?" And if by chance you find yourself with this "love bite" again, remember that it is only an ephemeral trace of a moment of happiness.

Laurie

Web editor

How to get rid of a hickey quickly?