6 Tips for Bruising
Bruising is a major concern for patients receiving injectable treatments. This page will give you tips on how to reduce and camouflage after-treatment bruising.
Planning Treatment
Plan time in your schedule in case you bruise. Most patients bruise from 7-10 days, occasionally longer, so it is best to have your injection 1 month prior to an important event.
Avoid Blood Thinners
The following substances decrease the formation of clotting, and thus may increase the risk of bruising: Motrin, Aspirin, St. John's Worth, and Fish Oil.
DermaSculpt
Minimize after-treatment bruising with the new DermaSculpt Microcannula injection method. These blunt ended Microcannulas ("Cannulas") cut fewer arteries and veins than needles, resulting in significantly less after-treatment bruising and swelling. Dr. Mabrie is excited to offer Dermafiller treatments with Cannulas upon request, and has found the reduction in bruising amazing!
*The blunt tip of the cannula's may cause patients to experience more "pinching and popping" sensations during treatment.
Arnica Montana
This natural homeopathic remedy has been used since the 1500's. Though not scientifically proven, many rave about its ability to reduce pain, swelling and bruise discoloration. For optimum benefit of this product, start taking immediately after treatment.
Cold Compresses
Cold compresses can help keep the treated area cool and thus decrease bruising. However, patients need to take care not to overdo it with the ice. Overdoing it with extreme cold can be irritating to some skin, so we recommend using cold gel packs in moderation.
Concealer
Concealer can be used immediately after treatment for bruising and discoloration. Light bruising may be camouflaged by complexion colored foundation alone, however, darker bruises may require the neutralizing method first, followed by foundation. Below is a list of some popular concealer brands, as well as tips for application.
Popular Products:
Product: 5 Camouflage Cream Palette - No. 1
Brand: Make Up For Ever
Retailer: Sephora
Product: Concealer 101 - Perfecting Concealer Duo
Brand: Physician's Formula
Retailer: Target, CVS, Walgreens, Ulta Beauty
Application Tips
A: Neutralize: Neutralizing colors appear opposite each other on the Color Wheel. Use the Color Wheel above to determine which concealer color will neutralize the color of your bruise. For example - to cover blue bruises, you would start by neutralizing the color of your bruise with orange makeup concealer. For red blemishes, you would neutralize the blemish color with green makeup concealer.
B: Apply: Use light fingertips to apply the concealer in blending motions, being sure to camouflage the entire bruise. Allow the concealer to set.
C: Finish: If desired, you may then apply a layer of foundation that best matches your skin complexion (be careful not to rub in the concealer while applying).
