To heal a bruise fast, start by applying ice to the injured area within the first 24 to 48 hours to reduce blood flow, swelling, and pain. Use an ice pack or frozen vegetables wrapped in a cloth and apply for about 10-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between to protect the skin. After 48 hours, switch to using heat therapy to boost blood circulation and help clear away trapped blood. Elevation of the bruised area above heart level reduces swelling and pain. Other effective treatments include:
- Compression with an elastic bandage to prevent further blood vessel leakage.
- Topical applications of arnica, vitamin K cream, aloe vera, or bromelain (found in pineapple) to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Ensuring good nutrition with vitamins C, K, and B12, which support blood vessel repair and clotting.
Resting the bruised area and avoiding further injury helps speed recovery. Most bruises heal in about two weeks but these steps can reduce the healing time and lessen bruising visibility.
