Medically Recommended Method for Healing Bruises. 1  1. Apply ice to the bruise. 2  2. Use an ice-pack, a bag of ice, or a package of frozen vegetables, such as frozen peas. 3  3. Ice the bruise for no more than 15 minutes per hour.  4. After 24 hours, apply heat to the 1  bruise. 5. Use a warm compress or a hot water bottle.  6. Apply heat for at least an hour.