What a hickey is
A hickey, called a love bite in the UK, is a small bruise caused by sucking or kissing the skin hard enough to break tiny blood vessels near the surface. It usually appears on the neck, but can be anywhere.
It starts red or purple, then turns blue, then green and yellow as it heals, just like any bruise.
For some people a hickey is a playful sign of passion; for others it is embarrassing, especially before work or a family event. Always ask before leaving a visible one.
How to give one
Ask first, and agree where: somewhere that can be covered by clothes, such as the collarbone, chest or inner thigh, is often better than the neck.
Start by kissing the area gently, then place your lips on the skin, create light suction and hold for 10 to 20 seconds. More suction makes a stronger mark; less makes a lighter one. Do not bite hard.
Check in as you go. If your partner pulls away or seems uncomfortable, stop; see our guide to consent and boundaries.
How long they last and how to fade one
Most hickeys fade in five days to two weeks. A cold compress or a spoon from the fridge in the first day or two can reduce swelling and stop it spreading.
After a couple of days, gentle warmth helps the blood clear. Arnica or vitamin K creams may help a little. Avoid rubbing hard or using coins and toothbrushes, which can make bruising worse.
To hide one, a high collar, scarf or colour-correcting concealer (green under red, then a skin-tone concealer) works well.
When to be careful
Hickeys are bruises, so they are harmless for most people. If you bruise easily, take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, avoid them.
There are rare reports of strong suction on the neck causing problems with blood vessels, so keep it gentle and avoid the front and sides of the neck over the main arteries.
Never give someone a hickey to "mark" them without agreement. A love bite should be fun for both of you.
Your questions, answered
How long does a hickey last?
Usually five days to two weeks.
How do you get rid of a hickey fast?
Cold compress for the first day or two, then gentle warmth; cover with clothing or colour-correcting concealer.
Are hickeys dangerous?
Rarely: they are bruises, but keep them gentle and avoid them if you bruise easily or take blood thinners.
