Bruise Easily? Toughen Up With These Tips

Date: 12.12.2011

Does it seem like your epidermis is a constantly polka-dotted patchwork of bruises, bumps and discolorations? You may not be as clumsy as you think you are – another issue could be to blame. Believe it or not, factors like diet, lifestyle and even genetics can play a major role in determining how prone you are to bruises. Use these expert tips to avoid bruises and speed healing when you do get injured.

• Lower on the body, slower to heal. The location of your bruise may determine how long it takes to heal. Generally, bruises that are lower on the body take longer to heal, whereas those on your face or upper body are likely to heal at a more rapid clip. 
• Boost your bioflavonoids. Foods like strawberries, mangoes, papayas, spinach, and garlic contain powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can speed healing times.
• Add more vitamin-rich citrus to your diet. A vitamin C deficit can make your skin more prone to bruising, so up your intake of vitamin C-laden foods such as oranges, guavas, kiwis, and leafy greens.
• Vitamin K cream can help. The topical application of skin products that contain vitamin K can diminish the appearance of bruises.
• Protect yourself. If you regularly engage in sports or other vigorous activities that result in bruises, make sure you’re wearing enough protective gear.

If your propensity to bruise easily comes from your parents, there may not be a lot you can do to change things. However, in some cases, a few tweaks to your diet a­­nd lifestyle may be all it takes to significantly clear your skin of these unsightly discolorations.