A black eye, medically known as a periorbital hematoma, is a common injury resulting from trauma to the face or head. The characteristic discoloration and swelling occur because small blood vessels beneath the thin skin surrounding the eye break and leak blood into the tissue. This pooling of blood creates the dark bruise, which changes color from purple/black to green/yellow as the body reabsorbs the blood products over one to two weeks. Although most black eyes are minor and heal on their own, the discomfort leads many people to search for quick home remedies.
Does Toothpaste Help a Black Eye?
Toothpaste does not help a black eye and should not be used as a treatment. This persistent folk remedy likely stems from the temporary cooling sensation provided by ingredients like menthol or peppermint oil. However, this cooling feeling does not address the underlying cause of the black eye: internal bleeding from broken capillaries. Applying toothpaste does nothing to constrict blood vessels, reduce blood leakage, or speed up the reabsorption process.
The discoloration is caused by blood pooling underneath the skin, not on the surface. An effective treatment must either stop the bleeding immediately or help the body break down the collected blood over time. Since toothpaste is formulated for dental hygiene, not deep tissue trauma, it cannot perform these functions. Using toothpaste only delays the application of proven first aid methods.
The Risks of Applying Toothpaste to Skin Injuries
Applying toothpaste to the sensitive skin around a black eye carries significant risks of irritation and further injury. Toothpaste contains ingredients that are abrasive and caustic to non-oral tissue. Common components like calcium carbonate or silica, which polish teeth, can physically irritate or damage compromised skin.
Many toothpastes also include detergents, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which can cause contact dermatitis or chemical irritation on the thin periorbital skin. Strong flavorings, such as concentrated peppermint or cinnamon oils, may trigger painful burning sensations and allergic reactions. Furthermore, introducing a non-sterile substance like toothpaste increases the risk of bacterial infection, especially when applied near the eye.
Proven First Aid for a Black Eye
Immediate first aid for a simple black eye focuses on minimizing swelling and internal bleeding. As soon as the injury occurs, apply a cold compress to the area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. The cold temperature constricts small blood vessels, slowing internal bleeding and limiting the amount of blood that leaks into the tissue. Always wrap the ice pack or frozen vegetables in a thin cloth to prevent ice burn.
Repeat this cold therapy regularly during the first 24 to 48 hours. After 48 hours, when swelling has stabilized, switch to a warm compress. The warmth helps dilate blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the area, which aids the body in reabsorbing the pooled blood. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can manage discomfort. Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, as they can thin the blood and potentially worsen bruising.
Warning Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While most black eyes are minor bruises, they can signal a more serious underlying injury requiring professional medical evaluation. Immediate attention is necessary if the injury is accompanied by changes in vision, such as blurriness, double vision, or complete loss of sight. The inability to move the eye normally or persistent, severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter medication are urgent red flags.
Other serious symptoms include seeing blood in the clear part of the eye (hyphema) or having an irregularly shaped pupil. Bruising around both eyes (“raccoon eyes”) may indicate a skull fracture, especially if accompanied by clear fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears. Persistent headache, dizziness, nausea, or loss of consciousness following the injury also warrant an emergency medical visit to rule out a concussion or other head trauma.