Let’s be real, facial bruising is no fun—no matter how old you are or how you got it. Maybe you tripped on the curb, had an argument with a kitchen cabinet, or even had a facial plastic surgery procedure. Whatever the story, one thing’s for sure: when you spot that purple (or blue…or yellow-green) beauty in the mirror, the first question is always “How do I get rid of this, fast?”

Here’s some honest advice on what actually works—and what just makes life a little easier—when you’re dealing with a bruise front and center.

First 24 Hours: Keep It Cool—Literally

As soon as you notice the bruise forming, reach for an ice pack or even a bag of frozen peas. Wrap it in a clean towel, then gently press it to the area for about 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Take breaks so you don’t freeze your skin, but keep repeating for the first day. The cold helps ease swelling and keeps the bleeding under your skin from spreading, which can mean a smaller, lighter bruise down the road.

If you don’t have ice right away, even a cold, damp washcloth is better than nothing. The important thing is to act quickly.

Rest Up, Head Up

It sounds silly, but elevating your head (especially while sleeping) can make a difference during the first couple of nights. Gravity will help reduce the flow of blood to the injured area, potentially reducing swelling and the overall bruise. Stack up an extra pillow or two and treat yourself to a comfy evening propped up with a good book or old movie.

Gentle Is the Name of the Game

Your skin’s already had a rough day—go easy! Wash your face with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, and pat everything dry softly. Skip the exfoliants, heavy creams, or anything that stings for a little while. Applying arnica or vitamin K creams, which you can find in most drugstores, may help some bruises fade faster (although results can vary).

What to Avoid

Don’t rub or massage the area, tempting as it is to “break up” the bruise. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen unless your doctor tells you otherwise, as they can thin the blood and sometimes make a bruise linger. And as for Aunt Martha’s old “put a steak on it” remedy? Save your dinner—there’s no real science there.

Conceal with Care

If you’re itching to cover it up before a big meeting or family photo, use a concealer with a yellow or peachy undertone to counteract the purple-blue hue of most bruises. A clean brush or sponge is best—your fingers might make things worse or spread bacteria. Less is more, but if it makes you feel better, go for it.

When to Call a Doctor

Most facial bruising is annoying but harmless. But if you notice your bruise spreading rapidly, have trouble seeing, or feel severe pain, it’s time to check in with a pro. Bruises after facial plastic surgery or along with head trauma especially deserve a quick phone call to your provider.

Bottom line: be gentle, be patient, and remember—every bruise eventually fades, even if your selfie game suffers for a little while.