How To Hide A Hickey: Your Ultimate Guide

Marie Blick 10 May 2025

Let’s be real, we’ve all been there—sneaking out of the house in the morning and suddenly realizing there’s a bright red hickey staring back at you in the mirror. But don’t panic! Whether it’s for work, school, or just your daily life, hiding a hickey doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In this guide, we’ll show you how to hide a hickey effectively so you can go about your day confidently.

Look, let’s not sugarcoat it. A hickey can feel like a neon sign on your skin, screaming to the world what you were up to last night. But hey, nobody needs to know about your wild side unless you want them to, right? That’s why learning how to hide a hickey is essential, especially if you’re in situations where discretion is key.

From makeup tricks to clever clothing choices, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to master the art of concealing a hickey. So grab your concealer, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the world of hickey-hiding techniques!

Understanding What a Hickey Actually Is

Before we jump into the how-to part, it’s important to understand exactly what a hickey is. A hickey is essentially bruising caused by suction on the skin, which breaks tiny blood vessels just beneath the surface. This results in that telltale red or purple mark that everyone knows too well.

Now, why does this matter when you're trying to hide a hickey? Well, knowing how a hickey forms helps you figure out the best way to cover it. For instance, fresh hickeys are usually redder, while older ones tend to turn darker shades of purple or even green as they heal. Understanding these stages will help you choose the right products and techniques.

How to Hide a Hickey with Makeup

Makeup is your best friend when it comes to hiding a hickey. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily camouflage that pesky mark. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Pick the Right Concealer

Not all concealers are created equal, especially when it comes to covering up a hickey. Look for a concealer that’s two shades lighter than your skin tone. Why? Because lighter shades help neutralize the redness and darkness of the hickey.

Go for a cream-based concealer for better coverage.
If possible, choose one with green undertones, as green cancels out red tones.

Apply the Concealer Strategically

Once you’ve picked the right concealer, it’s time to apply it. Start by dotting the concealer directly onto the hickey. Use a small brush or your fingers to blend it in gently. Don’t overdo it—less is more here. You can always add more layers if needed.

Pro tip: Apply the concealer in a circular motion to mimic the natural texture of your skin. This helps create a seamless finish.

Using Clothing to Your Advantage

Sometimes, the easiest way to hide a hickey is to cover it with clothes. Sure, it’s not always practical, but it’s definitely an option worth considering.

Scarves: Your New Best Friend

A stylish scarf can do wonders for hiding a hickey. Not only does it cover the mark, but it also adds a chic touch to your outfit. Choose a patterned scarf to draw attention away from your neck area.

Turtlenecks and High-Neck Tops

For a more low-key approach, opt for turtlenecks or high-neck tops. These pieces are perfect for covering up hickeys without drawing too much attention to yourself. Plus, they’re versatile enough to wear in both casual and formal settings.

Home Remedies to Speed Up Healing

While makeup and clothing can help hide a hickey temporarily, nothing beats speeding up the healing process. Here are some home remedies you can try:

Ice It Down

As soon as you notice a hickey forming, grab an ice pack and apply it to the area. Ice helps reduce swelling and minimizes blood flow to the area, which can prevent the hickey from getting darker.

Warm Compress

After a day or two, switch to a warm compress. Heat promotes blood circulation, which helps the hickey fade faster. Just make sure the water isn’t too hot to avoid burning your skin.

Over-the-Counter Products for Hickey Removal

If home remedies aren’t cutting it, you might want to consider over-the-counter products designed specifically for removing bruises. These products often contain ingredients like arnica or vitamin K, which are known for their healing properties.

Some popular options include:

Tropeznol
Arnica Gel
Vitamin K Cream

Just remember to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure about using any new product on your skin.

How to Prevent Future Hickeys

Prevention is always better than cure, right? If you want to avoid dealing with hickeys in the future, here are a few tips:

Be Gentle

Suction is the main culprit behind hickeys, so try to be gentle during intimate moments. It might take some practice, but trust us, it’s worth it!

Use Protective Layers

Another trick is to use protective layers, like a soft cloth or even your partner’s hair, to cushion the skin. This reduces the pressure and minimizes the risk of bruising.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, people often make mistakes when trying to hide a hickey. Here are a few common ones to watch out for:

Overloading on Concealer

Piling on too much concealer can look cakey and unnatural. Stick to thin layers and build up gradually for a more natural finish.

Using the Wrong Shade

Choosing the wrong shade of concealer can actually make your hickey stand out more. Always test the product on your skin before committing to it.

What to Do If Your Hickey Won’t Go Away

Most hickeys fade within a week or two, but sometimes they stick around longer than expected. If this happens, don’t panic. Here are a few things you can do:

Visit a Dermatologist

A dermatologist can recommend treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels to speed up the healing process. These options might be a bit pricey, but they’re effective if you’re desperate to get rid of that stubborn hickey.

Stay Patient

Time is often the best healer. Give your skin some time to recover naturally, and avoid picking at the area, as this can prolong the healing process.

Conclusion

Hiding a hickey doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right techniques and tools, you can confidently go about your day without anyone noticing. From makeup tricks to clever clothing choices, there are plenty of ways to conceal that telltale mark.

Remember, prevention is key. Be gentle, use protective layers, and take care of your skin to avoid future hickeys. And if you do end up with one, don’t sweat it—just follow our tips and you’ll be good to go.

So, what are you waiting for? Share this article with your friends, leave a comment below, or check out our other guides for more life hacks. Stay confident, stay stylish, and most importantly, stay you!

Understanding What a Hickey Actually Is
How to Hide a Hickey with Makeup
- Pick the Right Concealer
- Apply the Concealer Strategically
Using Clothing to Your Advantage
- Scarves: Your New Best Friend
- Turtlenecks and High-Neck Tops
Home Remedies to Speed Up Healing
Over-the-Counter Products for Hickey Removal
How to Prevent Future Hickeys
Common Mistakes to Avoid
What to Do If Your Hickey Won’t Go Away
Conclusion

5 Ways to Hide a Hickey Jey Pawlik

5 Ways to Hide a Hickey wikiHow

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