Preparation H for Puffy Eyes?

2 Comments 03 August 2010

The claim is that a dab of preparation H, carefully rubbed under the eyes, quickly reduces puffiness and and bags under the eyes. You might have heard that this is the secret of the stars and a surefire trick that professional models use before hitting the runway. Does this tried and true treatment for hemorrhoids actually do double-duty?

As far as anti aging products go, under $10 for a tube of Prep H is definitely a bargain among bargains. The better anti aging products can run you $300 per month. But a bargain is only a bargain if it actually works.

Hemorrhoid creams are not wrinkle removers, but instead work as a vasoconstrictor to temporarily reduce puffiness and bags underneath the eye area. Phenylephrine HCl is the active ingredient in Preparation H that supposedly reduces swelling. This ingredient is also used in nasal decongestants to constrict blood vessels.

There is not clinical evidence that phenylephrine HCl reduces swelling around the eyes. Furthermore, most skin specialists will likely warn against using any product near the eyes that is not specifically made for use in the eye area. Additionally, Preparation H isn’t the most pleasant smelling and it will make your eyes shiny.

One of my favorite beauty tips for puffy eyes is the witch hazel treatment. Put a bottle of witch hazel in the refrigerator until chilled. Soak two cotton balls in witch hazel and place on the eyes for 15 minutes while you lie down and relax. Not only does this feel amazing, it quickly reduces puffy swollen eyes. Sliced cucumbers are also a great home remedy for getting rid of puffy eyes. Place the slices of cucumber on closed eyes for 15-30 minutes.

To avoid puffy eyes altogether, reduce your salt intake and make sure you remain hydrated. If you have allergies, take antihistamines. Sleeping on your back with your head slightly elevated will minimize fluid retention. Dryness can lead to irritation and puffiness, so stay hydrated and always use a quality moisturizer. Last but not least, remember to remove eye makeup before going to bed.

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Sara

Sara - who has written 70 posts on Beauty Tips 411.

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I had not heard of using witch hazel! Great tips! Thanks! For some reason, I can’t bring myself to use Prep H on my eyes.
http://www.facebook.com/prateekp Prateek Panchal

Every woman’s bane early morning is said to be puffy eyes. None of us want to have puffy looking eyes early in the morning. What do you think could have caused for that puffiness? Could it have been too much salt in your food last night or was it too few winks that you managed to get last night. Whatever the reason for your puffy eyes, you will definitely want to rid yourself of them.

Puffy eyelids will make you look old and tired. While this is usually known to be a temporary thing, it could even last for days and weeks in some cases. If you have not been too well lately, those puffed up eyes could be the result of high levels of irritation.

http://www.eyehealthguide.net/symptoms-of-dry-eyes.html