While it is true that some people bruise more easily than others, there are things that anyone can do to prevent turning black and blue at the slightest touch!

First of all, familiarize yourself with things that make you more susceptible to bruising: St. John's Wort, NSAIDS (like aspirin or ibuprofen), green tea, Vitamin E, ginko, and ginseng all have a blood-thinning effect that can do just that.

Of course, you might decide that the benefits of these items outweigh their side effects (my love of green tea, for example, has been well documented in this blog!), and that's OK, too - a little normal bruising does not usually pose a health risk. Furthermore, if you are taking aspirin or blood thinners for medical reasons, do not stop taking them; talk with your doctor about your bruising concerns.

Another approach is to simply eliminate items from the list above as a preemptive measure before activities that could lead to bruising, like playing sports, moving houses, or undergoing certain dermatological treatments. I ask patients to avoid unnecessary blood-thinning items for ten days before treatment with a dermal filler, for example.

Next, talk to your doctor about bromelain supplements, which have been shown to minimize bruising - I always recommend that my patients take 500mg, twice a day after treatment with a dermal filler or other bruising injury. If you are particularly prone to bruising, you should consider adding this supplement to your daily regimen. It is available at drugstores over the counter.

Once you've undergone a physical trauma or dermatological treatment that could lead to bruising, there are still steps you can take to minimize the resulting discoloration.

Topical products that contain arnica, or vitamin K can help minimize the appearance of bruises. (I like Donell Super Skin K-Derm Gel and Bioron Arnica Cream) You should also avoid hot showers, saunas, and other sources of heat for 24 hours following the trauma or dermatological treatment.

Wishing you great skin!

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Dr. Baumann is author of the best-selling book, " The Skin Type Solution." To learn more about her revolutionary skin typing system, visit her Web site, SkinTypeSolutions.com. 

All of Dr. Baumann's recommended skin care products are available online, and a portion of proceeds goes to The Dermatology Foundation.

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