The Surprising Reason Why Toothpaste Removes Hickeys
What To Know
- However, if the hickey is particularly large, painful, or does not fade away after a week, it is important to see a doctor.
- The time it takes for toothpaste to remove a hickey varies depending on the size and severity of the hickey.
- If you have sensitive skin, it is best to test the toothpaste on a small area of skin before applying it to the hickey.
Hickeys, those telltale purple or red marks on the skin, can be embarrassing and unsightly. While they usually fade away in a few days, there are times when you may want to speed up the process. One common home remedy that is often touted as an effective hickey remover is toothpaste. But why does toothpaste remove hickeys? Let’s delve into the science behind this curious phenomenon.
The Science of Hickeys
Hickeys are caused by broken capillaries under the skin’s surface. When someone sucks on your skin, it creates suction that causes the capillaries to burst. This results in blood leaking into the surrounding tissue, which appears as a bruise.
How Toothpaste Works
Toothpaste contains several ingredients that may contribute to its ability to remove hickeys. These include:
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): SLS is a surfactant that helps to break down the proteins in the blood. This can help to dissolve the blood clot that is causing the hickey.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that can help to lighten the discoloration of the hickey.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help to remove dead skin cells and promote healing.
How to Use Toothpaste to Remove Hickeys
To use toothpaste to remove a hickey, follow these steps:
1. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the hickey.
2. Rub the toothpaste in gently for a few minutes.
3. Rinse the area with cool water.
4. Repeat the process several times a day until the hickey fades.
Other Home Remedies for Hickeys
In addition to toothpaste, there are several other home remedies that may help to remove hickeys. These include:
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the hickey can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Vitamin K Cream: Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting. Applying a vitamin K cream to the hickey may help to speed up the healing process.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and healing properties that may help to reduce the appearance of the hickey.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, hickeys will fade away on their own within a few days. However, if the hickey is particularly large, painful, or does not fade away after a week, it is important to see a doctor. This could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
Recommendations: The Efficacy of Toothpaste in Hickey Removal
While toothpaste is not a guaranteed cure for hickeys, it may help to speed up the healing process. By breaking down the blood clot and lightening the discoloration, toothpaste can make hickeys less noticeable. However, it is important to note that toothpaste should not be used on open wounds or broken skin.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: How long does it take for toothpaste to remove a hickey?
A: The time it takes for toothpaste to remove a hickey varies depending on the size and severity of the hickey. In general, it can take several days to a week for the hickey to fade completely.
Q: Can I use any type of toothpaste to remove a hickey?
A: It is best to use a white toothpaste without any added ingredients. Gel toothpastes may not be as effective as paste toothpastes.
Q: Is it safe to use toothpaste on my face?
A: Toothpaste is generally safe to use on the face, but it is important to avoid getting it in your eyes. If you have sensitive skin, it is best to test the toothpaste on a small area of skin before applying it to the hickey.
