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Bruises
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Symptoms

Bruises

A bruise is a mark on the skin caused by blood trapped under the surface following an injury that crushes small blood vessels.

Overview

A bruise occurs when an injury crushes small blood vessels without breaking the skin. These vessels break open and leak blood under the surface of the skin. While bruises are often painful and swollen, they can occur in the skin, muscle, or bone, with bone bruises being the most serious.

Healing and Management

While it can take months for a bruise to fade, most last about two weeks. They typically progress through a series of color changes:

  • Start as a reddish color
  • Turn bluish-purple
  • Fade to greenish-yellow
  • Return to normal

To reduce bruising, ice the injured area and elevate it above your heart. You should see your health care provider if you seem to bruise for no reason or if the bruise appears to be infected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Healing time depends on the depth of the injury, your age, and your overall health. Bruises in muscles or bones take longer to heal than those in the skin because blood is trapped in deeper tissues where it is harder for the body to reabsorb. Older adults often bruise more slowly due to thinner skin and reduced blood flow. Certain medications, such as blood thinners or steroids, and conditions like liver disease can also prolong the healing process.
Signs of infection include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or pus draining from the site, often accompanied by fever. If a bruise appears after a significant fall or impact and is accompanied by severe pain, inability to move the limb, or swelling that does not improve with ice and elevation, it could indicate a fracture or deep tissue damage. Unexplained bruising in unusual locations, such as the trunk or face, without any known trauma, should also be evaluated by a doctor to rule out clotting disorders.
While there is no magic cure, applying ice for the first 24 to 48 hours helps reduce swelling and limits further bleeding. After 48 hours, switching to warm compresses can increase blood flow and help the body reabsorb the trapped blood. Some people find that applying arnica gel or vitamin K cream helps, though scientific evidence is mixed. Elevating the injured area above heart level also aids in reducing swelling. Avoid massaging the area in the first few days, as this can worsen the bleeding.
diet rich in vitamin C supports collagen production, which strengthens blood vessel walls and helps them heal faster. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and can help prevent excessive bleeding under the skin. Antioxidants found in berries and leafy greens may also support tissue repair. Conversely, excessive alcohol consumption can thin the blood and impair liver function, making you more prone to bruising and slowing down the healing process.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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