Understanding and Preventing Bruising: Pristine Wellness Center

Posted: August 1, 2023

Anytime we use a needle to perform any procedure, there is a risk of bruising. Bruising is a type of bleeding under the skin due to any type of trauma. Bruising might be black or blue at the beginning and gradually turn green and yellow and then disappear. In some rare cases, The Hemosiderin from crushed Red blood cells might cause a longer lasting discoloration but eventually disappears as the blood gets absorbed.

In order to have less risk of bruising before any procedure:
Patients must stop taking any blood thinners 1-2 weeks before their procedure(s) to prevent or decrease the chance of bruising and bleeding during the procedure. These supplements include (but are not limited to): Aspirin, anti-inflammatories such as Nurofen, Voltaren, Diclofenac, Naproxen; St John’s Wort, Garlic, Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba, Ginseng, Ginger, Green tea extract, omega 3, Inositol, Boswellia, Bromelain, Pandora, Policosanol, Mesoglycan, Co-Q10, Epo (Evening primrose oil)

Understanding Why Bruising Occurs After Medical Procedures

Bruising is a natural physiological reaction that occurs when small blood vessels beneath the skin are disrupted during needle-based treatments. When a needle punctures the skin, it can cause minor trauma to surrounding capillaries, leading to a small amount of blood leaking into the tissue, which manifests as a visible mark on the surface.

At Pristine Wellness Center, we prioritize patient safety by explaining that this response is common and typically temporary. While the severity of bruising can vary depending on the individual's skin sensitivity and the specific area treated, understanding this mechanism helps patients feel more prepared for their aesthetic or medical journey.

The Typical Healing Process and Color Changes of a Bruise

As a bruise heals, the body works to break down the trapped blood, causing the skin to change color over several days. Initially, a bruise may appear reddish or purple as the blood is fresh, eventually transitioning to shades of blue, black, green, or yellow as the hemoglobin is metabolized by the body.

Most minor bruises from cosmetic injections fade within one to two weeks without requiring medical intervention. In rare cases, if iron deposits known as hemosiderin remain in the skin, you might notice a lingering brownish discoloration, which our medical team can help monitor during follow-up consultations.

Strategies to Minimize Bruising Before Your Appointment

Proactive preparation is the most effective way to reduce the likelihood and intensity of bruising before your scheduled procedure. We strongly recommend that patients discontinue the use of blood-thinning medications and certain herbal supplements at least one to two weeks prior to their visit to ensure optimal clotting function.

Common substances to avoid include aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen, and supplements such as Vitamin E, fish oil, and gingko biloba. By following these pre-treatment guidelines provided by our experts at Pristine Wellness Center, you can significantly support your body’s natural healing process and achieve the best possible aesthetic results.