Some people continue to use hemorrhoid cream in skin care, despite the fact that this product is not formulated for the skin on your face. Find out how this myth started and if hemorrhoid cream really has any good uses for your eyes.
The most well know hemorrhoid cream, Preparation H, is responsible for the belief that it can have beneficial effects when applied to the eye area. Does it still work today? The answer is a bit more complicated than a straight Yes or No.
Most reported benefits of hemorrhoid cream in skin care stem from the original formula of Preparation H, which had one very important ingredient: LYCD. The FDA has since ordered the removal of this ingredient since it doesn't seem to have any effect on hemorrhoids. However, it may be the key to other uses of the hemorrhoid cream, for instance for under eye puffiness and wrinkles.
LYCD or BioDyne is a live yeast cell derivative, and research has shown that it may help heal wounds. Since it's no longer in the US version of Preparation H, hemorrhoid cream in skin care is only an option in Canada or other countries.
Hemorrhoid Cream for Under Eye Puffiness
The main ingredients in hemorrhoid creams are vasoconstrictors, compounds that make blood vessels contract. Most of them may be able to reduce puffiness and redness, but make sure you only apply them to small areas. Used in excess, hemorrhoid creams can lead to high blood pressure.
Using Hemorrhoid Cream for Wrinkles and to Tighten Skin
Since the main effect of hemorrhoid cream for eyes is to make blood vessels contract, it doesn't have any effect on wrinkles, according to most dermatologists. Using hemorrhoid cream to tighten skin temporarily may be effective, but you're risking complications if you use it often and on large areas.
Hemorrhoid Cream in Skin Care Side Effects
It's never a good idea to try out a new product before a special event. Since they're only approved for use on hemorrhoids, the special creams may have unexpected effects.
If you really want to try hemorrhoid cream in skin care, treat it like any other cosmetic product. Do a skin test a few days before the moment you're planning on using it and make sure you don't get a rash or other side effects caused by its ingredients. Without making sure you're not allergic to the ingredients, hemorrhoid cream for under eye puffiness can make thing worse.
See also:
5 Best Anti-Wrinkle Creams 2013
What is Retinol: Discover its Cosmetic Benefits
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