To answer your question: No, preparation H is for hemorrhoids and does not cause long term benefit in wrinkles. People use it to decrease blood flow (like bag under the eyes) but this is not recommend as it thins the skin.
This idea is based on the old formulation of Preparation H that included an ingredient known as live yeast-cell derivative (LYCD). However, there have been no clinical studies on whether LYCD can actually reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face.
Since hemorrhoid creams narrow swollen blood vessels in the anal area, it's possible they can do the same on your face. This may make your skin appear tighter and improve the appearance of wrinkles. But there's no solid evidence to support the use of hemorrhoid creams for skin tightening.
Preparation H is made with phenylephrine, which is a vasoconstrictor and only temporarily tightens skin. This can be irritating and will not provide the long tern results you are probably looking for.
"Preparation H formulations often contain petrolatum, mineral oil and paraffin that can clog pores and cause breakouts. In addition, the formula may contain lanolin that can cause contact dermatitis in many," warned Dr. Michelle Yagoda, a facial plastic surgeon in New York.
Is applying Preparation H under your eyes safe? "Preparation H can cause irritation and sensitivity [around the eyes]," says Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. "Prolonged use of steroids around the eyes is not recommended, as it can lead to thinning of the skin."
Do not use this medication if hemorrhoids are bleeding or the rectal area is raw and irritated. If symptoms do not improve within 7 days, if bleeding/worsening pain occurs, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, tell your doctor promptly.
Hemorrhoid cream contains chemicals that reduce the size of blood vessels, which can ease pain and other symptoms of hemorrhoids. Reducing blood flow and making blood vessels smaller can also reduce the size of undereye bags and wrinkles.
Generic Name: hydrocortisone
This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (such as insect bites, poison oak/ivy, eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash, itching of the outer female genitals, anal itching).
Retinol (vitamin A) is the most frequently used ingredient in anti-aging creams. But tretinoin, another form of vitamin A, may be the most effective ingredient to firm the skin on your neck and face.
Apply the product to the skin of the affected area up to 4 times daily, usually in the morning and bedtime, or after each bowel movement, or as directed by your doctor.
Age is no bar for skincare
According to Cho, preventative skincare in Korea begins when you start applying sunscreen or wearing hats and clothing that protect you from sun exposure at six months old. “Not only does this prevent sunburns, but it also hinders sun damage that can contribute to ageing later in life.
The Soothing Relief Anti-Itch Cream by Preparation H is our pick for best itch relief. While some other forms of Preparation H include phenylephrine or pramoxine, this one contains 1% hydrocortisone to provide instant and long-lasting itch relief, a maximum-strength percentage you don't need a prescription for.
Preparation H® can provide relief as quickly as just a few hours. Generally, Recticare and other lidocaine creams take around 30-60 minutes to start working and may last for 1-3 hours depending on how long the cream stays on the skin.
Why does it work? "This hack works because Preparation H contains phenylephrine, which constricts the blood vessels in your under eye area to reduce inflammation, swelling, and puffiness," says New York-based board-certified dermatologist Ellen Marmur, MD.
Applying Hemorrhoid Cream For External Use
Apply the hemorrhoid cream around the outside of your anus with your finger.
Anti-hemorrhoidal creams and suppositories such as Preparation H® may contain phenylephrine and could be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Choose a product without phenylephrine to avoid a potential rise in blood pressure. Vitamins, herbs, and dietary supplements should be used with caution.