No, you should not rub your black eye directly.
While it might be tempting to rub a black eye, direct rubbing can actually worsen the bruising and inflammation. It's important to be gentle with the injured area. However, there's a way to help the healing process.
How to Help a Black Eye Heal
Instead of rubbing the bruise itself, consider gently massaging the *area around* the black eye. According to research, this can promote faster healing by increasing blood flow to the surrounding tissue. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Proper Care for a Black Eye
| Action | Description | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Avoid Direct Rubbing | Refrain from directly rubbing the bruised area. | Direct rubbing can increase inflammation and potentially worsen the injury. |
| Gentle Massage Around Bruise | Use your fingertips to lightly massage the skin surrounding the black eye, using gentle circular motions. | According to information, this will increase blood flow to the tissue surrounding your eye, potentially speeding up the healing process. |
| Cold Compress | Apply a cold compress (like a bag of ice wrapped in a towel) to the eye for 15-20 minutes at a time. | Helps to reduce swelling and inflammation. |
| Rest | Avoid strenuous activities that could increase blood flow to the head. | Promotes rest and allows the injury to heal more quickly. |
| Pain Relievers | Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, following package instructions. | Can help reduce pain and discomfort. |
| Monitor for Changes | Watch for signs of severe injury like vision changes, persistent pain, or double vision. Consult a doctor if these appear. | Ensure that there are no underlying issues. |
Important Considerations
- Timing: Start with gentle massage once initial swelling subsides.
- Pressure: Use a very light touch. Avoid any deep pressure.
- Duration: Massage for a few minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Listen to Your Body: If the massage causes pain, stop and try again later.
- When to See a Doctor: If your vision is affected, the pain doesn't subside, or your black eye seems to get worse, see a doctor to make sure there isn't another injury.
By following these steps, you can help reduce discomfort and promote faster healing after a black eye.
