We’ve all been there — you glance in the mirror, spot that deep red or purple mark on your neck, and think, “Uh-oh… how long is THIS going to stick around?” Whether you’re a teen sneaking around your parents or a young adult with a big presentation tomorrow, hickeys (aka love bites) can feel like a neon sign announcing your love life to the world.
So, how long do hickeys really last? And more importantly — is there a way to speed up the healing process? Let’s break it down.
What Exactly Is a Hickey?
A hickey isn’t some mysterious “mark of passion” — it’s basically a bruise. When someone sucks or kisses your skin too hard, tiny blood vessels (capillaries) under the skin break. Blood leaks out, causing the red or purple color you see.
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Day 1–2: Fresh hickeys are usually red or dark purple.
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Day 3–5: They start turning blue, green, or yellow as they heal.
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Day 6–12: They fade until they disappear completely.
So… How Long Do Hickeys Last?
On average, hickeys stick around 5 to 12 days. The exact time depends on factors like:
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Skin type & sensitivity – Fair or sensitive skin may show marks longer.
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Location – Thinner skin (like your neck) makes hickeys more visible.
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Your healing speed – Health, hydration, and circulation play a role.
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Size & intensity – The stronger the suction, the deeper the bruise.
💡 Quick takeaway: Most people see them fade within a week, but some stubborn marks can hang on for nearly two.
How to Make a Hickey Go Away Faster
While you can’t magically erase a hickey overnight, you can help your body heal quicker.
1. Apply a Cold Compress (First 48 Hours)
Cold helps reduce swelling and stops more blood from pooling under the skin.
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Wrap ice in a cloth and apply for 10–15 minutes.
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Repeat several times a day.
2. Switch to Heat (After 48 Hours)
Once the bruise forms, gentle heat improves circulation, helping your body clear the trapped blood.
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Use a warm towel or heating pad for 10 minutes, twice a day.
3. Massage the Area
Lightly massaging increases blood flow and speeds healing — but don’t do this in the first 48 hours or you’ll make it worse.
4. Try a Concealer Trick
If you need to hide it for school, work, or family gatherings:
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Use a yellow-tinted concealer for purple marks.
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Blend foundation over it for a natural look.
Things That Don’t Work
You’ve probably heard of the spoon trick or toothbrush method, but be careful. These can irritate your skin and make the bruise look worse. Stick to proven methods.
When to See a Doctor
Hickeys are harmless most of the time. But if you notice swelling, severe pain, or it doesn’t fade after two weeks, check with a healthcare provider — rare complications can happen.
The Bottom Line
Hickeys usually last about a week, but the exact timeline depends on your body and the bruise’s severity. With a mix of cold compresses, heat therapy, and a little concealer magic, you can speed up healing and save yourself some awkward stares.
So next time you’re wondering “how long will this last?” — remember, it’s temporary. And if you want to avoid them altogether… well, that’s another conversation.