No, hickeys are generally not considered unhealthy, though they can be a source of embarrassment or discomfort.
Hickeys are essentially bruises caused by broken blood vessels under the skin due to intense sucking or pressure. They are a common occurrence and usually fade within a week or two. While they might be visually unappealing to some, they are typically harmless.
According to the reference, hickeys are usually harmless and will not cause cancer or other serious conditions. There have been extremely rare cases of blood clotting issues related to hickeys; however, these instances are exceptionally uncommon.
What are Hickeys?
A hickey, also known as a "love bite," is caused when small blood vessels under the skin break due to intense suction or pressure. The blood that escapes causes the reddish or purplish mark.
Risks Associated with Hickeys:
- Embarrassment: Hickeys are often visible and may cause social discomfort for some individuals.
- Discomfort: The area around a hickey might be slightly tender or sore, especially when first formed.
- Extremely rare cases of blood clots: While incredibly rare, blood clot formation due to hickeys has been reported. This is an exception rather than a general rule.
How to Minimize the Appearance of Hickeys:
While hickeys are usually temporary, you can minimize their visibility:
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth soon after the hickey appears might help reduce swelling.
- Warm Compress: After a day or two, a warm compress can promote blood flow and help the body clear the blood from the area quicker.
- Concealer: Makeup can be used to cover the discoloration if needed.
Key Takeaway:
The bottom line is hickeys are usually harmless. They are a form of bruising and typically resolve on their own.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Health Risk | Generally harmless; rare cases of blood clots, but exceedingly uncommon. |
| Appearance | Bruise-like mark caused by broken blood vessels; typically reddish or purple. |
| Treatment | Cold compresses, warm compresses and concealer. |
| Resolution | Fades on its own within a week or two. |
