A black eye usually takes about 1–2 weeks to fade, but you can reduce swelling and help it heal as fast as possible with proper care. Always get urgent medical help if you have vision changes, severe pain, or symptoms of concussion like vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness.

First 24–48 hours

• Rest and avoid exercise or anything that raises your heart rate, because that can increase swelling and bruising.

• Apply a cold pack (ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in a clean cloth) to the area around the eye for 10–20 minutes at a time, then remove it for at least the same amount of time; repeat several times a day.

• Keep your head elevated, including when sleeping, to reduce fluid pooling around the eye.

• Use over‑the‑counter pain relief such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen if you need it, following package directions and any advice from a healthcare professional.

After 48 hours

• Switch to warm (not hot) compresses on the area for 10–20 minutes, several times a day, to increase blood flow and help the bruise clear faster.

• Once swelling is down and it is not very tender, gentle massage around (not on) the bruise can support circulation, but stop if it hurts.

• Some people use arnica gel or vitamin C (by mouth or as a cream) to support bruise healing; evidence is limited, but these are commonly suggested options when used as directed and not in the eye itself.

Things to avoid

• Do not put raw meat on the eye; it does not help and can introduce bacteria and cause infection.

• Do not press directly on the eyeball, rub the area, or continue contact sports or risky activities until the eye has largely healed.

• Do not ignore red flags such as worsening vision, blood inside the eye, severe headache, fluid leaking from the nose or ears, or a black eye after a serious head injury; these need urgent medical assessment.

Covering it up

• If the skin is intact and not very tender, cosmetic concealer that matches your skin tone can help hide discoloration while it heals.

• Apply makeup gently with clean brushes or fingers, and remove it carefully at night to avoid irritating the area.