Can Preparation H de-puff your under-eye bags?
Makeup artists swear by it. Mario Devidanovic uses it on Kim K all the time. “It tightens the skin. That’s a really old, old trick. It smells really bad but it works,” he told the audience who turned up at one his masterclasses.
The bad scent is the least of your problems if you use this stuff on your skin, ladies. Just because it works, it doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Here’s why:
What Is Preparation H?
Preparation H is a hemorrhoid cream. You’d think that’d put anyone off from using it on their face. Apparently not. Ah, the things we do in the name of beauty…
Its active ingredients include Mineral Oil, Petrolatum and Phenylephrine, a vasoconstrictor commonly used in decongestant nasal sprays.
A lot of Preparation H formulas also contain Hydrocortisone to reduce swelling, itching and irritation.
Related: 5 Mineral Oil Myths You Need To Stop Believing Right Now
Can Preparation H De-Puff Under-Eye Bags?
In theory, yes. Preparation H can de-puff under-eye bags.
Remember when I told you Phenylephrine is a vasoconstrictor? It shrinks blood vessels, so that your skin looks tighter.
Hydrocortisone also plays a part. It can reduce swelling, including under-eye puffiness.
Needless to say, the effects are only temporary. But that’s not the reason why you shouldn’t apply Preparation H on your face…
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Is It Safe To Use Preparation H On Your Under-Eye Area?
No. It is NOT safe to use Preparation H on your under-eye area. This stuff is a haemorrhoid cream and it contains stuff that’s not suitable for your delicate under-eye area.
For starters, you don’t want to get this stuff anywhere near your eyes. If it accidentally gets into your eyes, it can be dangerous. If this happens, puffy eyes will be the least of your problems, trust me.
Then, there’s the Hydrocortisone. Its prolonged use can cause all sorts of side effects, like skin thinning, steroid acne and problems with your adrenal gland (the gland that produces steroids in your body).
Prolonged use of Phenylephrine will backfire, too. Overtime, it becomes less effective. Stop using it completely and you’ll have to deal with rebound swelling.
Bottom line: don’t use Preparation H under your eyes. It’s NOT safe.
What Should You Use To Get Rid Of Puffy Eyes Instead Of Preparation H?
Preparation H is only a temporary fix for puffy eyes – and a dangerous one at that. If you want a permanent solution, you need to address their root cause.
This is the point where a lot of experts will tell you to use skincare products with caffeine and other safe vasoconstrictors. I don’t think that works. I’ve tried many of these serums myself and they all failed miserably.
So, what really works to get rid of puffy eyes? The answer may surprise you:
- Sleep: Beauty sleep is real, ladies. If you want your eyes to look fresh and awake, you need to give your body the rest it craves. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep every night.
- Stay hydrated: Drink enough water and cut back on salty foods that lead to water retention.
- Anti-allergy medication: If you suspect allergies are to blame for your under-eye puffiness, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Stop wasting your time with dangerous DYI treatment or useless skincare products. The best treatment for puffy eyes is a good night’s sleep and plenty of water. For real.
Related: Why Beauty Sleep Is NOT A Myth (And How To Get Your 8 Hours’ Rest Every Night)
The Bottom Line
Don’t use Preparation H to de-puff your under-eye bags. It works, but it’s dangerous. Instead, stay hydrated and get a good night’s sleep. It’ll do wonders for your skin.
Have you ever used Preparation H on your face? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
