1) Understanding Hickeys
So, what is a hickey anyway? Simply put, a hickey is a bruise caused by aggressive sucking on the skin, most commonly on the neck, but it can also occur on other parts of the body.
When the capillaries and blood vessels under the skin are ruptured or damaged, they release blood which then pools under the skin, producing a red or purple mark. Hickeys are often associated with sexual activity since they typically occur during moments of intense intimacy.
They are often seen as a mark of pleasure and desire, with some people even considering them as a sign of ownership or marking of territory. However, not everyone sees them this way, and there is a certain level of social stigma attached to them.
2) Causes of Hickeys
As mentioned earlier, the primary cause of hickeys is excessive or aggressive sucking on the skin. However, not everyone is equally susceptible to getting hickeys, and the experience may vary from person to person.
Some individuals may have more sensitive skin than others and may be more prone to hickeys. Additionally, the severity of the hickey may depend on the amount of suction applied, the duration, and the location of the hickey.
3) Duration and Healing of Hickeys
The healing process for a hickey is similar to that of any other bruise. In most cases, the mark will fade away slowly over time as the body’s immune system works to break down and reabsorb the blood that has pooled under the skin.
However, the length of time it takes for a hickey to fade can vary significantly depending on the individual. Some people may find that it takes only a few days for a hickey to disappear completely, while it may take up to two weeks or longer for others.
In some rare cases, a hickey may persist for over a month.
4) Healing Hickey Naturally
Most of the time, a hickey will heal naturally without the need for medical attention. However, there are some natural remedies that can help speed up the process and reduce the severity of the mark.
Arnica gel is one such remedy that is known for its bruise-healing properties. You can apply this gel to the affected area several times a day to help reduce the inflammation and promote healing.
Vitamin K-enriched cream, aloe vera, and Bromelain are other remedies that may help reduce the appearance of a hickey. In addition to these natural remedies, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can also aid in the healing process.
Foods that are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants can help to boost the body’s immune system and reduce inflammation.
3) Getting Rid of Hickeys
While hickeys may be a mark of passionate love-making, they may not be the most socially acceptable thing and can be a cause of embarrassment. Hickeys are not harmful but can cause slight discomfort.
Immediate Treatment
When you notice a hickey, trying to attack it as soon as possible is the best option to reduce its overall impact. The application of a cold pack or a cooling agent can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
You can use an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas and wrap them in a thin cloth. Never apply ice or a frozen object directly on the skin as it causes damage.
Hold the cold agent against the hickey for 20 minutes and take a 10-minute break, repeating this process for a few hours or until the mark is no longer painful.
After 48 Hours
After the first 48 hours, the cold treatment will no longer work as effectively. Now, it’s best to promote blood circulation to the area by applying heat.
A warm bath can help relax the surrounding muscles and promote healing, or you can use a warm compress with a damp dish towel. Gently massage the area for five minutes as it helps to move the pooled blood away from the skin’s surface, reducing the discoloration.
Temporary Solutions
While you wait for the hickey to heal, you can conceal it with makeup. There is no complete removal of the hickey with makeup, but using a concealer or a color corrector matching the skin tone on the area can cover it at least partly.
Clothing options also come in handy, such as wearing a turtle neck or a scarf to hide the mark.
Establish Safe Sex Practices
Hickeys are personal preferences, and each individual enjoys them differently. It is essential to have a communicative partner who values personal preferences.
It’s always necessary to communicate with your partner and understand their preferences, likes, and dislikes. Consent is crucial and respects your partner’s boundaries and emotional safety.
4) Miscellaneous Information on Hickeys
Giving and Receiving Hickeys
Hickeys are a fun addition to love-making if done correctly and safely. It’s vital to have a partner who knows what they are doing as aggressive sucking can cause significant damage to the skin.
It’s essential to follow safe practices, communicate well, and understand the preferences of the receiver. Never do something that makes the receiver uncomfortable.
Misconceptions about Hickeys
Hickeys are not harmful as they are just bruises. Some people misconstrue them as dangerous as they form clots and increase the risk of a stroke.
This is untrue, and in most cases, they are harmless and can fade away naturally without any complications. However, there can be social judgment, and if someone considers it inappropriate, it’s respectful to avoid giving them.
Relevance to Sexual Culture
Hickeys are popular in sexual cultures, meaning they are considered as relevant additions to love-making and are often referenced by music, movies, and books. They have been a part of the Eastern culture going back to ancient times as documented in the Kama Sutra.
The marking of sexual activity is important in some communities, and these types of marks are considered a badge of honor for some people.
Hickeys as a Personal Choice
There is no right or wrong when it comes to getting a hickey, as it’s entirely an individual’s preference. Some people may not like them at all, while others may enjoy them.
It’s common to make them during the heat of passion, and it can be enjoyable. Ultimately, it’s a part of personal expression and preference, and nobody has the right to judge it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hickeys can be seen as marks of passion and a fun addition to love-making. While the mark may not be socially acceptable, it’s always important to communicate with your partner and understand personal preferences.
There are methods to reduce the impact and conceal the hickey, but it’s also okay to embrace them and wear them as a badge of honor. Hickeys are a personal expression of choice.
In conclusion, hickeys are a natural result of intimacy that may not be accepted socially. They are bruises caused by aggressive sucking, resulting in blood vessels rupturing.
While some people enjoy marking personal territory with them, others may try to conceal them due to social judgment. Hickeys can be treated with both cold and heat applications, and it’s necessary to follow safe sex practices, understand your partner’s preferences, and respect their boundaries.
Ultimately, it is a personal preference and personal expression that nobody has the right to judge. So embrace them or hide them; it’s up to you!
