Brad Pitt Explains His Facial Injury

— -- Brad Pitt is often regarded as one of Hollywood's most handsome leading men.

So, when he appeared at an event over the weekend with a bruise on his face, many wondered what could have happened.

"This is what happens when you try to run up steps in the dark, with your arms full, wearing flip flops," he told People magazine. "Turns out if you then try to stop your forward momentum with your face, the result is road rash."

Pitt, 51, wasn't vain about hiding the injury, however. The event, a benefit for Austism Speaks, was too important to him to stay cooped up at home.

"I was honored to be a part of this important event," he said.

According to the magazine, it was a good night for the actor, who purchased a Fender guitar for $23,000 in an auction. Why such a high price? The guitar was signed by the event's performers, all of whom have autism.