What Is a Hickey? Causes, Treatment & How to Hide It

A hickey—also known as a love bite or kiss mark—is a common form of minor skin trauma that often sparks curiosity, embarrassment, or amusement. While some view it as a sign of affection, others find it awkward or unwanted. Regardless of how you feel about them, understanding what a hickey is, how it happens, how to treat it, and how to conceal it can be helpful.

In this article, we’ll explain what a hickey is, the science behind it, how to treat it safely, and practical ways to hide it when needed.

 What Exactly Is a Hickey?

A hickey is a bruise caused by suction on the skin, usually from kissing or sucking. The suction breaks small blood vessels (capillaries) beneath the surface of the skin, allowing blood to leak out and form a visible mark.

What Happens Under the Skin?

When strong suction is applied:

• Tiny capillaries break
• Blood leaks into surrounding tissue
• A reddish or purple mark forms
• Over time, the hickey changes color as the body breaks down the blood

The body naturally reabsorbs this blood, causing the hickey to fade over several days.

 How Long Does a Hickey Last?

A typical hickey:

• Appears within minutes to hours
• Lasts anywhere from 5 to 12 days
• Fades in stages—red or purple at first, then greenish-yellow, then brown before disappearing

Duration can vary based on:

• Skin sensitivity
• Location (neck and chest bruise more easily)
• How forceful the suction was
• Your body’s healing process

 Most Common Hickey Locations

Hickeys usually appear on soft, sensitive skin that’s more prone to bruising, such as:

• Neck (most common)
• Collarbone
• Chest
• Inner thighs
• Arms

The visibility of the area makes neck hickeys more noticeable—and often more concerning to hide.

Are Hickeys Harmful?

Generally, hickeys are harmless and don’t require medical attention. However, in very rare cases, they’ve been associated with:

• Blood clots
• Skin damage if repeated in the same spot
• Infections, if the skin is broken

People with blood disorders or who take blood thinners should avoid strong suction, as they may bruise more easily or heal more slowly.
For more safety tips and remedies, read the full guide on hickeys and their treatment.

 How to Treat a Hickey

If you want to speed up healing, try these safe, at-home remedies:

1. Cold Compress (First 24–48 Hours)

• Apply a cold spoon or ice pack wrapped in a cloth
• Reduces swelling and prevents more blood from spreading
  Apply for 10–15 minutes a few times a day

2. Warm Compress (After 48 Hours)

• Use a warm cloth to stimulate blood flow
• Helps the body break down trapped blood
• Do this 2–3 times a day

3. Gentle Massage

• Lightly massaging the area in circular motions can improve circulation
• Don’t overdo it—aggressive rubbing can make it worse

4. Topical Creams

• Arnica cream or vitamin K cream may help reduce bruising
• Aloe vera can soothe irritation and reduce inflammation

5. Hydration and Nutrition

• Stay hydrated to help your body flush out broken blood cells
• Eat foods rich in vitamin C and K (e.g., citrus, broccoli, spinach)

 What Not to Do

Avoid these methods—they can irritate the skin or make the hickey worse:

• Scraping with a coin or toothbrush
• Using toothpaste or mouthwash
• Applying extreme heat
• Popping or poking the area

These tricks may seem popular online but can damage your skin and delay healing.

 How to Hide a Hickey

If you’re looking to cover up a visible hickey, here are some quick fixes:

1. Use Makeup

• Apply green-tinted concealer to neutralize redness
• Cover with full-coverage foundation and setting powder
• Blend carefully to match your skin tone

2. Dress Smart

• Wear turtlenecks, scarves, or collared shirts
• Long hair can also help cover marks on the neck or chest

3. Accessorize

• Bandages or adhesive patches can work if placed cleverly
• Statement necklaces or layered scarves may draw attention away

 How to Talk About It

If someone notices your hickey and you feel uncomfortable:

• You can keep it lighthearted: “It’s just a bruise—no big deal.”
• Or be direct if needed: “I’d prefer not to talk about it.”

Remember, you’re not obligated to explain anything about your body if you don’t want to.

 Can You Prevent Hickeys?

Yes. If you want to avoid getting one:

• Ask your partner to be gentle during intimate moments
• Use communication and mutual consent
• Apply less suction or avoid sensitive areas

For couples who enjoy giving them, using less pressure or avoiding vulnerable spots can prevent long-lasting marks.

 Final Thoughts

A hickey is a temporary mark of affection—but also a minor bruise that your body will naturally heal over time. While usually harmless, it can be inconvenient depending on where it appears. Whether you’re treating it, hiding it, or preventing it, understanding how hickeys form and heal can help you make informed decisions.

If you’re ever unsure about a mark or it doesn’t fade as expected, consult a healthcare provider to rule out other skin conditions complications