13 Natural Remedies And Tips To Get Rid Of A Black Eye Fast
Gentle home treatments use common pantry items to soothe inflammation and fade bruises.
A black eye can be both unsightly and uncomfortable, often resulting from a direct blow to the area around the eye. While such bruising typically resolves in one to two weeks, several home remedies and expert tips may help you heal quicker, minimize swelling and reduce pain. This comprehensive guide explains the causes, symptoms, best home remedies, and essential precautions to treat and even prevent black eyes.
What Is a Black Eye?
Black eye, medically called periorbital hematoma, refers to bruising and discoloration around the eye caused by broken blood vessels under the skin following an injury or trauma. It typically appears as a blue, black, or purple bruise and may be accompanied by swelling, tenderness, and sometimes vision changes.
Key Takeaways
- Injury is the most common cause of a black eye. Trauma leads to swelling and discoloration.
- Cold and warm compresses are standard for reducing swelling and aiding healing.
- Avoid excessive pressure. Keep the area clean.
- See a doctor if vision changes, severe pain, or additional symptoms arise.
What Causes a Black Eye?
The main causes of a black eye include:
- Direct injury: Trauma to the face from falls, accidents, sports injuries, or being struck by an object causes small blood vessels below the skin to burst. Blood collects in tissue around the eye, resulting in visible discoloration.
- Cosmetic procedures or dental work: Surgery involving the face or jaw, such as rhinoplasty (nose surgery) or dental procedures, can occasionally cause bruising around the eyes.
- Medical concerns: In rarer cases, a black eye may signal an underlying condition, such as bleeding disorders or, if bruising occurs around both eyes, a more serious injury like a skull fracture.
Symptoms of a Black Eye
- Pain and tenderness around the eye
- Swelling and puffiness
- Discoloration that may progress from red-purple to blue, green, and yellow as it heals
- Possible blurry vision or headaches
Most black eyes are minor, but monitor for more serious symptoms, such as persistent pain, vision changes, bleeding in the eye, or signs of infection. Seek medical attention if these occur.
How To Get Rid Of A Black Eye Naturally
Black eyes typically heal on their own, but the following remedies can support your body’s recovery, reduce swelling, and relieve discomfort. Always consult your doctor before trying new treatments, especially if you have allergies or pre-existing conditions.
Home Remedies For A Black Eye
Cayenne Pepper And Vaseline
What You Need: 1 tsp. powdered cayenne pepper & 5 tsp. Vaseline
Directions: Mix cayenne pepper with Vaseline (5:1 ratio). Apply gently around the eye (avoid direct eye contact) and leave for 1–2 hours. Rinse with water.
Frequency: Twice daily.
Why It Works: Capsaicin in cayenne pepper is anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Coconut Oil
What You Need: Virgin coconut oil
Directions: Massage a thin layer around the eye gently. Leave overnight.
Frequency: Once nightly.
Why It Works: Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties soothe the area; massage improves blood flow and helps disperse clotted blood.
Toothpaste
What You Need: Non-gel toothpaste
Directions: Dab a small amount on the affected area at night and rinse off in the morning.
Frequency: Once daily at night.
Why It Works: Ingredients like menthol and baking soda provide a cooling effect, potentially reducing swelling.
Essential Oils
What You Need: Lavender or chamomile essential oil (diluted)
Directions: Mix a few drops with a carrier oil and gently apply around the bruise.
Frequency: Once per day.
Why It Works: Essential oils possess anti-inflammatory and calming effects, providing minor relief.
Cucumber
What You Need: Fresh cucumber slices
Directions: Place cold slices over closed eyelids for 10–15 minutes.
Frequency: Multiple times daily.
Why It Works: Cucumber cools, hydrates, and reduces swelling and irritation.
Green Tea Bags
What You Need: Used, chilled green tea bags
Directions: Place cooled tea bags over eyes for 15–20 minutes.
Frequency: 2–3 times daily.
Why It Works: Antioxidants and tannins reduce swelling and expedite healing.
Petroleum Jelly
What You Need: Petroleum jelly (e.g., Vaseline)
Directions: Apply a thin layer around the bruise (never inside the eye).
Frequency: Twice daily.
Why It Works: Keeps the skin moisturized and prevents scabbing.
Pineapple Juice
What You Need: Pineapple or pineapple juice
Directions: Consume fresh pineapple or apply juice-soaked cotton to the bruise for 10–15 minutes.
Frequency: Once daily.
Why It Works: Contains bromelain, which may reduce inflammation and speed healing.
Lemon Juice
What You Need: Diluted fresh lemon juice
Directions: Dab gently around the bruised area (never in the eye). Rinse after 10 minutes.
Why It Works: Vitamin C supports collagen repair and may lighten discoloration.
Orange Juice
What You Need: Fresh orange juice
Directions: Drink daily to boost vitamin C intake and aid healing.
Why It Works: Vitamin C can improve blood clotting and breakdown of bruises.
Raw Potato
What You Need: Slices of raw potato
Directions: Place a potato slice on the closed eyelid for 10–15 minutes.
Frequency: Few times daily.
Why It Works: Potato reduces swelling and may lessen dark coloration with starches and antioxidants.
Ice Pack (Cold Compress)
What You Need: Ice pack, cold spoon, or bag of frozen peas
Directions: Wrap in a cloth and gently apply for 10–15 minutes. Repeat every 1–2 hours during the first 24–48 hours.
Why It Works: Cold therapy reduces swelling, restricts blood flow, and relieves pain.
Warm Compress
What You Need: Warm towel or cloth
Directions: Apply gently to the area for 10 minutes after 48 hours when swelling has gone down.
Why It Works: Heat improves circulation and supports the breakdown and removal of pooled blood.
What others are reading
Evidence-Based Options
- Arnica: Research shows that oral or topical arnica may reduce bruising after injuries and cosmetic surgery. Avoid if on blood thinners or with certain allergies.
- Vitamin C: Boost oral or topical vitamin C to promote healing and reduce discoloration. Or eat citrus fruits.
- Massage: Gently massage around (not on) the bruise after 2–3 days to disperse blood. Never apply pressure when swelling or pain persists.
Prevention Tips
- Always wear protective eyewear (face shields, goggles) during contact sports, hazardous work, or DIY projects.
- Reduce fall risks at home – ensure good lighting, use non-slip mats, and keep walkways clear.
- Use seat belts and appropriate child restraints in vehicles.
- If you notice new black eyes without injury, discuss with a medical professional to rule out underlying conditions.
When To See A Doctor
- Increased pain, swelling, or redness
- Vision changes, double vision, or persistent blurry vision
- Bleeding within the eye or from the nose/ear after head injury
- Signs of infection (pus, warmth, fever)
- Bruising around both eyes
These may be signs of a more serious injury, such as an orbital fracture or concussion. Prompt medical attention prevents complications.
Additional Home Care & Pain Management
- Pain relievers: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed to relieve pain (avoid aspirin as it can worsen bleeding).
- Rest with your head elevated: This can help reduce swelling in the first couple of days.
- Avoid wearing makeup or contact lenses over the bruised area until healed.
- Do not rub, scratch, or apply pressure to the eye area.
Black Eye Healing Stages Table
| Stage | Color | Timeframe | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate | Red/Purple | First 1–2 days | Active bleeding under skin; swelling highest |
| Intermediate | Blue/Purple | 2–5 days | Blood starts to break down; swelling reduces |
| Late | Green/Yellow | 5–10 days | Bruise gradually fades as blood is reabsorbed |
| Healed | Normal | 10–14 days | Skin returns to original color; tenderness resolves |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I speed up the healing of a black eye?
A: While there is no instant cure, consistent use of cold and warm compresses, anti-inflammatory remedies, vitamin C, and good self-care may speed healing modestly.
Q: Is it safe to use makeup to cover a black eye?
A: You may gently use concealer or foundation to cover a bruise after the skin has closed and swelling reduced—never over open wounds or active swelling.
Q: How long does a typical black eye last?
A: Most black eyes fade within 1 to 2 weeks. If symptoms worsen or do not resolve after 2 weeks, seek medical advice.
Q: When should I avoid home remedies and see a doctor?
A: If you experience vision changes, severe pain, bleeding within the eye, double vision, or bruising without an obvious cause, consult a physician promptly.
Q: Are black eyes dangerous?
A: Most are minor facial bruises and not dangerous. However, black eyes with other symptoms can signal a more serious head or facial injury requiring immediate care.
Summary And Final Precautions
- Apply cold compress immediately after injury, then switch to warm compresses after 48 hours.
- Use home remedies cautiously; avoid anything that irritates your skin or eyes.
- If you observe worsening symptoms or persistent swelling, contact your healthcare provider.
A black eye may be bothersome, but with sound care and a gentle approach, most people recover without complications or lasting damage.
References
- https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/how-to-get-rid-of-a-black-eye/
- https://www.evansvilleeyecare.com/eye-health-and-diseases/what-is-a-black-eye/
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-a-black-eye
- https://iris.ca/en/blogs/blog/black-eye-how-to-treat-it
- https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/
- https://www.youtube.com/stylecraze
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