Steps to Reduce Bruising

Bruising is never desirable but can happen with any injection. Consider following all or some of these suggestions to help reduce or avoid the chance of bruising at your upcoming treatment.

ONE WEEK PRIOR

  • Avoid Aspirin (ASA) and vitamin E for 7 days prior to your appointment. ASA thins the blood. Vitamin E or fish oils can also result in more bruising.

  • Avoid ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), anti-inflammatory drugs (ex. Aleve, naproxen), for 3 days prior to your appointment.

  • Avoid green tea.

  • Tylenol (acetaminophen) is acceptable to take and does not increase bruising.

  • Herbal medications like ginko biloba should be avoided for 3 days prior to your appointment.

  • Load up on Pineapple fruit daily before and after your appointment. Pineapple contains bromelain, a known ingredient to help with bruising.

TWO DAYS BEFORE

  • (Optional, but helpful) Begin taking Arnica Montana homeopathic tablets. At bedtime, in a clean mouth take 5 pellets and place under the tongue allowing them to dissolve. Take 5 pellets again in the morning before your treatment. You can continue with these tablets after your treatment; 5 tablets 3 times per day if you do get a bruise as it will speed healing. Arnica Montana is available at health food stores and some pharmacies.

  • Start antiviral treatment if you are prone to cold sores.

ONE DAY BEFORE

  • Avoid alcohol for a minimum of 24 hours prior to your appointment.

  • Take 5 pellets Arnica Montana homeopathic tablets in the morning before your treatment. (Optional)

I’ve got a bruise, now what?

  • Keep up with the good stuff. Continue taking Arnica and keep consuming pineapple as they will speed healing.

  • Turn to Makeup to help hide the bruising. Cover up provides better coverage and your local makeup counter can help.

  • After a few days and the bruise is no longer tender to the touch, begin light massage to help break up the bruise to help it fade more quickly.

  • Try and relax. A bruise is temporary and the benefits of your treatment are worth it. You’ll be looking great in about a week!