Puffy Eyes: Does Hemorrhoid Cream Work?
December 1, 2008
‘Puffy eyes’ or ‘baggy eyes’ are a common problem of the modern society. It is chiefly caused due to the stressful lifestyle we maintain day in day out. When we sleep less or stay awake for a long time in front of a computer screen, or in front of powerful lights, it affects our eyes so much to create dark circles and swollen eyes-technically called ‘puffy eyes’.
Hemorrhoid cream treatment is a home remedy common and prevalent for this kind of issues for a long time. People have ‘sworn by the profits’ of treating puffy eyes with hemorrhoid cream to reduce the swelling under eyes. The commonly used cream is the ‘Preparation H’. However, it is a better option than the ‘Medicated pads’, which use astringents, which has a tendency to cause eye-irritations.
A lot of people argue about the benefits of the hemorrhoid cream, for the sole reason that it works. But in fact, there are no clinically proven ways to show that it works. Some of the population claims great benefits from the product, whereas some see nominal benefits from the product.
Hence, the question arises that if it’s a truth or a myth? Well, some truth is actually in this: The Hemorrhoid cream has a possibility of ‘shrinking blood vessels around the eyes’, to a temporary decrease in the swollenness.
But, extreme caution is needed to use for any ‘off-label’ use of the products. The risk factor in minimal use of these products is negligible. But, when the Hemorrhoid cream products are used on a large area, the risk factor of medical complications like high blood pressure increases-this is a common practice among some Bodybuilders, in an attempt to appear lean.
These practices can expose people to temporary but irritating skin allergies. So, if one wants to use those creams, effectively, they should properly check it by using it in small areas of their skin to be sure if they are reactive with the cream or not.
Unique Breast Cosmetics from St.Botanica
Hi,
I would not recommend using Preparation H for puffy eyes. As mentioned by another respondent, it will cause extreme burning and irritation of the delicate eye tissue and truthfully will not bring you the results you are looking for. You should instead use slightly cool compresses around your eye tissue and increase your water intake. Also, avoid excess alcohol as this will intensify eye puffiness. The skin around the eye is very thin and sensitive, unlike the other area Prep H is used for.
And yet I still read these tips recommending it for puffy eyes. Don’t do it. I would suggest caution when using anything topical around the eye area.
I think using systemic treatments, such as drinking water and reducing salt intake, is a better idea. Or get a wedge shaped pillow and sleep with your head elevated. And see your doctor if it persists.
Thanks,
Claura.