THINGS THAT GO “BUMP!” IN THE NIGHT
Janine Mendes-Franco
We all get them — common skin injuries like cuts, bumps and bruises that put their stamp on our skin — and while they are usually not serious, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. Understanding what happens to your skin when it experiences this type of trauma can help you minimise and manage the damage.
The science behind bumps and bruises
Any type of blunt trauma to the skin naturally affects the underlying blood vessels. Swelling underneath the skin causes it to stretch. This can result in immediate redness, and perhaps even minor bleeding beneath the skin's surface.
Bumps are formed when ruptured blood vessels release blood into the surrounding tissue. Bruises happen when the capillaries break and blood leaks into the surrounding tissue, with the area turning purple thanks to the effect of oxygen-rich haemoglobin in the blood. As the body's natural healing process begins, the bruise will change colour transitioning from red to purple, then green to yellow, and eventually fading away.
Depending on the nature of the injury and the level of resilience in the skin, some people may experience an eczema-type rash that becomes bumpy or itchy, caused by the presence of the fluid under the skin.
How to help your skin bounce back
Ice, ice baby — Ice the area for about 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain, but be sure to take breaks to avoid damage from frostbite.
Don’t wait to elevate — Prop up the affected area on a pillow to reduce swelling.
Go over the counter — Non-prescription pain relievers that contain ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease pain and reduce inflammation, while topical creams containing arnica or vitamin K can help reduce bruising and promote healing. Be sure to follow the recommended dosages and instructions.
Bless the compress — Compression garments and bandages help reduce swelling and provide support for blows to the limbs. They also provide some measure of protection and prevent worsening of the injury.
Do it with diet — Proper hydration and a diet rich in vitamins C and K (think fruits, veggies, leafy greens and heart healthy oils) can promote faster healing of damaged blood vessels and skin tissue.
Above all, be patient. In most cases, bumps and bruises heal on their own, but may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.