How to Help a Bruise on the Face Heal Quickly

The Mayo Clinic states that bruises occur when blood vessels are broken near your skin's surface. This causes some blood to leak into the tissues under your skin, causing a black and blue color. Women bruise more easily than men, according to WebMD. If you have a bruise on your face, don't hide from the world. There are methods to help a bruise on the face heal quickly.

Apply a cold compress to the bruised area of the face. The cold helps to reduce blood escaping into the surrounding tissue, reports Sheryl Clark, MD. The bruise will be smaller and less severe. You must apply a compress as soon as you become bruised. Hold on the area for 20 minutes. Repeat every two hours.

Put heat on the bruised area. Use the cooling method for 24 hours. Then apply a washcloth soaked in hot water to the bruised area. Dr. Clark states that heat can open up the blood vessels, allowing them to get rid of fluids and blood cells more quickly. Apply the heat for 20 minutes three times a day.

Apply arnica oil or gel to the bruise 3. WebMD states that arnica may reduce swelling and even reduce pain 3. Arnica is available at most health-food stores 3. Follow the directions on the package.

Use a vitamin K cream 4. Look for an over-the-counter cream and follow the directions on the package. Vitamin K is used after surgery to speed up the process of skin healing and reduce bruising and swelling, WebMD reports 4.

Apply witch hazel to the bruise 5. Witch hazel contains chemicals called tannins, which, according to WebMD, may reduce swelling, heal broken skin and even fight bacteria 5. Follow the directions on the package for application instructions.