Bleeding hickeys, often called love bites or kiss marks, occur when suction breaks small blood vessels beneath the skin. This specific type of hickey results in a visible bruise that may bleed slightly under the surface, creating a dark purple or reddish mark that can be alarming if unexpected. While usually harmless, understanding the mechanics, risks, and aftercare of a bleeding hickey is essential for anyone engaging in intimate contact.
What Causes a Bleeding Hickey
The primary cause of a bleeding hickey is intense suction applied to the skin, typically on the neck or chest. This suction ruptures capillaries, the tiny blood vessels near the surface, allowing blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. The difference between a standard hickey and a bleeding one lies in the force used; more aggressive sucking creates enough pressure to break these vessels, leading to the characteristic discoloration and tenderness associated with bruising.
Identifying the Symptoms
Dark red or purple discoloration at the site.
Tenderness or pain when touched.
Minor bleeding or oozing immediately after the suction.
Formation of a small hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside the vessels).
These symptoms usually appear immediately after the act and can resemble a regular bruise as the day progresses. The center of the mark might feel slightly raised or swollen, indicating localized inflammation.
Potential Risks and Complications
While generally harmless, a bleeding hickey is not without risks. The break in the skin and blood vessels creates an entry point for bacteria, increasing the likelihood of infection if the area is not kept clean. There is also a risk of developing a more significant hematoma if the bleeding does not stop naturally, which might require medical drainage if it becomes too large or painful.
Concerning Location Factors
The location of the hickey can influence the severity of the outcome. Areas near major blood vessels or arteries, such as the side of the neck, carry a rare but serious risk. Excessive force in these zones could potentially contribute to blood clots or vascular damage. If the mark is accompanied by dizziness, difficulty moving the limb, or severe pain, seeking medical attention is strongly advised.
Immediate Aftercare Steps
Treating a bleeding hickey correctly can minimize its appearance and speed up healing. The first step is to apply gentle pressure to the area immediately after the incident to stop any active bleeding. Following this, a cold compress should be used for 10 to 15 minutes to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Avoid applying heat at this stage, as it can encourage more bleeding into the tissue.
Ongoing Treatment
In the hours following the incident, keeping the area clean is the priority to prevent infection. Arterial blood thinnerners like aspirin should be avoided. As the initial bleeding subsides, switching to a warm compress can help disperse the trapped blood and accelerate the healing process. Gently massaging the bruise (once the acute bleeding has stopped) can also promote blood flow and fade the mark faster.
Healing Time and Expectations
The duration of a bleeding hickey varies depending on the severity of the bruise and the individual’s skin tone. Minor cases might fade within a few days, while more significant bleeding bruises can take one to two weeks to disappear completely. The color of the bruise will evolve over time, shifting from red and purple to green and yellow as the body metabolizes the trapped blood.
Covering and Concealing
If the timing is inconvenient, cosmetic cover-up is possible. Using a green color corrector can neutralize the red and purple tones of the bruise. Following this with a concealer that matches your skin tone can effectively hide the mark. It is crucial to allow the skin to breathe, so avoiding heavy coverage for extended periods is recommended to prevent irritation.
