Difference Between Hickey And Bruise


Have you ever woken up with a mark on your skin that you couldn’t explain? It’s important to know the difference between a hickey and a bruise, as they often look the same at first glance. In this article, we will explore the differences between a hickey and a bruise and provide some tips on how to treat them.

What is a Hickey?

A hickey is also known as a love bite, kiss mark, or a bite mark. It is a bruise-like mark that appears on the skin when someone sucks or bites too hard on the skin, causing blood vessels to break. Hickeys are usually found on the neck or anywhere else where the skin is thin and delicate. They can range in color from pink, red, purple, or almost black depending on the severity.

Hickeys are often a sign of affection or intimacy, but they can also be embarrassing or inappropriate depending on the context. For example, getting a hickey at a family event might not be the best idea.

What is a Bruise?

A bruise, on the other hand, is a mark that appears on the skin when blood vessels underneath the skin break or leak blood. Bruises can be caused by a variety of things, including falls, bumps, or hitting a hard object. They usually start out as red or purple and then turn yellow or green as they heal. The color change is due to the body breaking down the blood cells and reabsorbing them.

Unlike a hickey, bruises can occur anywhere on the body and are not necessarily a sign of affection. They are usually painful to the touch, and the surrounding area may be swollen or tender.

Differences between Hickey and Bruise

The main difference between a hickey and a bruise is the cause of the mark. A hickey is caused by someone sucking or biting on the skin, usually during an intimate moment. A bruise, on the other hand, can be caused by anything from a fall to a sports injury.

Another difference is the location of the mark. Hickeys are usually found on the neck, chest, or inner thighs, whereas bruises can occur anywhere on the body.

The color of the mark is also a distinguishing factor. Hickeys usually start out red, purple, or pink and then turn a darker shade over time. Bruises often start out red and then turn blue or purple before fading to yellow or green.

Treating Hickeys and Bruises

If you have a hickey or a bruise, there are a few things you can do to help the healing process.

For a hickey, you can try applying a cold compress to the area to help reduce swelling and discomfort. You can also apply a warm compress after a few days to help the blood vessels heal. If the hickey is particularly noticeable or embarrassing, you can try using makeup to cover it up.

For a bruise, you can apply a cold compress to the area to help reduce swelling and pain. You should also elevate the affected area if possible. If the bruise is particularly large or painful, you may want to see a doctor to make sure there is no underlying damage.

In general, it’s best to avoid getting hickeys or bruises in the first place. If you’re engaging in intimate activities, make sure both parties are comfortable with the level of intensity. If you’re playing sports or engaging in other physical activities, make sure to wear protective gear if necessary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between a hickey and a bruise comes down to the cause of the mark and the location on the body. Hickeys are caused by someone sucking or biting on the skin during an intimate moment, while bruises can be the result of a variety of causes. Both can be treated with cold compresses and elevation, but it’s best to avoid getting them in the first place.