Q Why do I bruise like a peach?

Got a case of the Ross Gellers? ‘Bruises occur when a blood vessel leaks blood into soft tissue near the surface of the skin,’ says Dr Neil Sadick, professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. ‘Some body parts, such as the shins, are more prone to bruising, as they have less cushioning. And you may have an inherited disposition to blood vessels that rupture and leak more easily.’ Your chances can also be raised if you regularly take certain medication, such as blood thinners, aspirin or ibuprofen. You could also be deficient in vitamins C and K. ‘If you develop a bruise or suspect one is coming, ice the area on and off for a day to reduce swelling and inflammation,’ says Dr Sadick. Research has also found that creams that contain vitamin K or witch hazel can help bruises fade faster. If you’ve noticed changes in your bruising pattern – such as a sudden onset of easy bruising or bruising on multiple areas of your body – see your GP.