No, there's little scientific evidence to support the claim that toothpaste helps bruises. While some anecdotal evidence suggests it might reduce the appearance of bruises, this is not backed by research. Many sources explicitly state that toothpaste does not effectively treat or heal bruises.
Understanding Bruises
Bruises, or contusions, occur when small blood vessels under the skin break, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. This results in discoloration and sometimes swelling. The body naturally reabsorbs this blood over time, leading to the gradual fading of the bruise.
The Toothpaste Myth
The purported benefit of toothpaste on bruises is based on the idea that it somehow breaks up blood clots and increases blood flow. However, reputable medical sources and studies do not support this claim. The perceived effectiveness is likely due to other factors, such as the placebo effect or the simple act of applying pressure to the bruise.
Several articles directly refute the effectiveness of toothpaste for bruises:
- NBC News: States that there's little evidence toothpaste helps bruises, referring to it as a "hack" with no scientific basis. https://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/smart-facts/how-get-rid-bruises-n991541
- 1311 Jackson Ave Dental: Explicitly states that toothpaste does not get rid of bruises. https://www.jacksonavedental.com/post/toothpaste-does-not-get-rid-of-bruises
- YourTango: Points out that there's no scientific evidence to support the claim that toothpaste breaks up clots and increases blood flow to treat bruises. https://www.yourtango.com/2020337724/how-get-rid-bruises-fast-12-home-remedies
Effective Bruise Treatments
Instead of using toothpaste, consider these proven methods to reduce the appearance and healing time of bruises:
- Ice: Applying ice immediately after the injury can help minimize swelling.
- Arnica: A topical cream or gel containing arnica may help reduce bruising and inflammation.
- Elevation: Elevating the bruised area can reduce swelling.
- Compression: Gently compressing the area with a bandage can also help.
While some websites mention applying toothpaste and covering it with a bandage overnight, this is not a scientifically supported treatment and should not be considered an effective remedy for bruises.
