How to quickly remove a hickey

Generally speaking, there is no such thing as a quick way to remove a "hickey." Medically known as "mechanical purpura," a hickey is a bruise caused by broken capillaries and resulting blood pooling. It can be improved through methods such as cold compresses, warm compresses, and massage. If these are ineffective, medical aesthetic treatments like cryotherapy, microneedling, hyaluronic acid injections (hydroquin), photorejuvenation (IPL), and ultra-picosecond laser therapy may help. It is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and choose an appropriate method under the guidance of a physician.

1. Cold Compress

In the early stages, applying a cold compress causes local blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood leakage and accumulation. Use an ice pack or wrap ice in a towel and apply it to the affected area for 15–20 minutes at a time, repeating every 1–2 hours.

2. Warm Compress

If more than 24 hours have passed since the injury, a warm compress can help improve circulation and accelerate the absorption and dissipation of the bruise. Apply a warm towel or hot water bottle to the area for 20–30 minutes at a time, 3–4 times per day.

3. Massage

Massage can enhance blood circulation in the affected area and speed up the absorption of bruising. Gently massage in circular motions around the bruised area using your fingertips. Be gentle—avoid pressing too hard—and massage for 3–5 minutes each session.

Analysis of Medical Treatments for Removing Mechanical Purpura:

Treatment Name	Cryotherapy	Micro-needling Therapy	Hyaluronic Acid Injection (Hydroquin)	Photorejuvenation (IPL)	Ultra-picosecond Laser
Example Image
Treatment Principle	Using liquid nitrogen on the affected area, the extremely low temperature causes blood vessels in the skin to constrict, reducing blood accumulation.	Micro-needles create numerous tiny channels in the skin, stimulating the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.	Nutrients such as hyaluronic acid are directly injected into the dermis to improve skin metabolism, accelerating the absorption of bruising and pigment breakdown.	Intense pulsed light (IPL) targets the skin; areas with pigmentation absorb photon energy and gradually fade.	Ultra-short pulse lasers instantly shatter pigment particles in the bruise into smaller fragments, which are more easily cleared by the body's immune system.
Advantages	1. Simple procedure 2. High safety	1. Multi-functional 2. Promotes absorption	1. Deep hydration 2. Improves skin texture	1. No side effects 2. Improves telangiectasia (dilated capillaries)	1. Minimal invasiveness 2. Low risk of complications
Potential Risks	1. Hyperemia (increased blood flow) 2. Pigmentation	1. Redness, increased pain 2. Allergic reactions	1. Inflammation 2. Localized nodules	1. Allergic reactions 2. Burns	1. Infection 2. Local skin damage
Reference Price	1,000–4,000 RMB per session	500–2,000 RMB per session	1,000–3,000 RMB per session	1,000–3,000 RMB per session	3,000–5,000 RMB per session
Duration of Effect	5–10 years	3–6 months	1–3 months	1–3 months	1–2 years

After treatment, proper wound care is essential. Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid spicy or irritating foods such as pepper, chili, and garlic to prevent interference with healing.