How do you reduce the appearance of bruises?

To reduce the appearance of a bruise, immediately apply an ice pack to the affected area for 10 minutes, allowing at least 20 minutes between each icing, states Best Health. After icing the bruise, rest to minimize blood flow to the area, and begin applying heat after 24 hours.

Applying ice to a bruise minimizes the amount of blood that leaks into the surrounding tissue by cooling the blood vessels around the area. Icing should be done as soon as possible, according to Best Health. After 24 hours of icing, begin applying heat in the form of a warm compress. Using heat on the bruised area increases circulation and expels blood from the bruised area.