Dr. John Cunha on eMedicineHealth explains that discoloration on the skin is caused by tiny blood vessels breaking under the skin. This causes blood from damaged veins and capillaries to collect near the surface of the skin. A bruise usually starts off as a black and blue patch of skin and gradually turns green or yellow as it heals.1
You may find that the bruises on your body are painful at first but they may start to itch as they heal. Dr. Cunha says that it will take between one to two weeks for bruises to completely heal.2
Causes of Random or Unexplained Bruising on your Body and Legs
Knowing the reason for the appearance of mysterious bruises can help to prevent them in the future. This can also help you to determine if you should see a doctor about unexplained bruises that have appeared on your body.