Many OTCs for bruises and scars don't work

March 2012

Many OTCs for bruises and scars don't work...and might do harm.

Bruises. Suggest cold compresses for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling...then warm compresses to help lessen discoloration.

Don't recommend OTC bruise products (Bruise Away, etc). These usually contain arnica or vitamin K...but there's no good evidence that they help bruises heal faster.

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Many OTCs for bruises and scars don't work

Get concise advice on drug therapy, plus unlimited access to CE

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