It is an inconvenient fact that women bruise more easily than men. And I’m not talking about our fragile hearts after a bad break-up. I mean literally.
It’s because women’s skin is thinner, and the fat and blood vessels are organised a little differently to men’s. And with skin also thinning as it ages, losing fat and providing less cushioning, an increased tendency to bruise is a common part of the ageing process. It’s cheerful, isn’t it?
But if you do whack your previously pristine shin on the coffee table, what can you can do to minimise the bruising and swelling?
- • Apply ice for 10 to 20 minutes
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- Keep the leg elevated
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- Administer arnica, a natural anti-inflammatory that is highly effective on bruises, soothing the pain and helping to prevent discoloration.
The new Bumps & Bruises Skin Salve from Weleda is handy for the family first aid kit – immediate application will help prevent the development of bruising.
Made in Britain, it’s created with organic arnica tincture from fresh whole plants grown biodynamically in the Scottish Black Isle, where the extreme cold and intensity of light are ideal for this alpine plant. The natural base contains the finest lanolin, sunflower oil, olive oil and unbleached beeswax, so the salve absorbs more slowly than a water-based cream, to allow for gentle massaging. But the top quality ingredients can be absorbed by the skin and won’t leave a sticky, greasy residue which is a common problem with paraffin-base ointments.
Alternatively Arnica Massage Balm is ideal for large bruised areas as this fine body oil can be applied gently to the skin, to ease inflammation and soothe the stiffness that often accompanies bruising.
Available from natural health stores and pharmacies nationwide, or from the Weleda online store.
