A few weeks ago I received a text from someone who was just about to undergo blepharoplasty, otherwise known as eyelid surgery. This surgery is used to correct drooping upper eyelids or to reduce “bags” under the eyes. The internet tells me it’s the most popular cosmetic procedure in the world (Bido 2025), but it’s still rather uncommon (less than .1% of the population). However, I personally know 4 people who have had it done.
Blepharoplasty is a 1-3 hour surgery and recovery consists of 7-10 days of swelling and bruising, with full recovery about 2-4 weeks later.
This person who texted me had a friend who recently had the procedure done and apparently used Arnica. I suggested they also purchase some Staphysagria, Calendula and, Hypericum, just in case.
I heard from them again when they went for their follow up and texted me a photo of a product being sold in the office — called Skinuva “bruise”*.
Skinuva is a seemingly one-stop supplement for bruising, containing: Vitamin C, Zinc, Rutin, Grape Seed Extract, Bromelain and, homeopathic Arnica!
One bottle of Skinuva “bruise” costs $40 for a bottle of just 14 capsules (suggested use of twice daily for 7 days).
Skinuva “bruise” uses Arnica 30x. (30x is roughly equivalent to a 15c, in case you’re interested.) A quick look at the internet shows Arnica 30x or Arnica 15c can be purchased for $7-10 a tube and will most likely last you a lot longer than 7 days.
I’m not knocking Skinuva — I’m really excited that this product exists. I love supplements like Vitamin C and Zinc and Bromelain — they all have a place, but as a homeopath, they are outside my wheelhouse.
Why Arnica?
Arnica is a level 4 remedy in Murphy’s bruises rubric (the other one listed is Ledum**). Additionally, it’s for “bruised pain, as if beaten.” Surgery absolutely leaves one feeling as if they’ve been beaten!
Arnica is specifically indicated for conditions resulting from physical trauma (like surgery!)
Arnica is very helpful in alleviating pain, especially when associated with bruising.
Arnica reduces swelling and inflammation (which often accompany bruising).
Arnica promotes healing. For some links to research on Arnica and surgery, see “Recovery from surgery.”
Arnica is helpful when an area is sensitive to touch. There may be a fear of being touched because they are very protective of their injuries; they may feel delicate.
See also, “Arnica” for a deeper look into this marvelous remedy.
If you are thinking of having this popular surgery yourself, stock up on some Arnica and/or Ledum and take a deeper look into Skinuva to see if it looks like a good fit for you.
May your bruises be brief and your Arnica plentiful!
Julia Coyte, CHom
Classically Practical homeopath
#wellnessawaits
*I have no affiliation with this product, I just learned about it and am sharing what I know.
**Ledum would be another really good choice for recovery from this surgery. For instance, Ledum and Arnica are the only two remedies listed in Murphy’s rubric: Eyes - ECCHYMOSIS (bruising) - eyelids and they are both in Eyes - INJURIES, eyes - surgery, complications, after.
Bido, T., 2025. Eyelid surgery is now the most popular cosmetic procedure in the world [online]. NewBeauty.