by Angie Pollock

Created on: September 27, 2010

Under-eye puffiness is a common problem in the morning and for allergy sufferers. Puffiness can also become more prominent as we age. A home remedy often used to shrink the swelling associated with eye puffiness is with the use of Preparation H or hemorrhoid cream.  

Causes of Under-Eye Bags
Swelling under the eyes is sometimes associated with age but anyone can get eye puffiness. The swelling is generally connected with fluid that retains under the eye during sleep but it can also occur when a person is suffering from allergies.

Home Treatments for Eye Bags
Under-eye puffiness is usually treated with something cold just as you would a bump that is swelling. However, many women reach for hemorrhoid cream because they believe it can offer instant results and it takes less time than with the use of applying coldness to the eyes. Hemorrhoid creams have an anti-inflammatory ingredient that is dubbed to help shrink the appearance of eye puffiness.

Use of Preparation H for Eye Puffiness
A hemorrhoid cream like Preparation H can be applied directly to the puffy areas under the eyes. It is important to not get the medication too close to the eye or in the eye. The medication should be allowed to dry somewhat before applying makeup.

The Debate
Before you run out to your nearest drug store, there is a lot of debate as to whether Preparation H actually works or if it a rumor that has spread down through the years. You will hear and read about this remedy being used and working wonders for eye puffiness but you will also hear the naysayers. For the record, the makers of Preparation H does not recommend using their product for anything other than what it was intended – for hemorrhoids.

The Facts
A fact about using Preparation H for eye puffiness is that this product smells and rather than reducing eye puffiness, you may end up with red, watery eyes. According to SmartSkinCare.com, Preparation H “contains a very potent blood vessel constrictor phenylephrine.” This website also says this remedy works but recommends using only a small amount and only use a “couple times a week.” You will also find many other websites providing the same information.

There are also various comments from people who have tried this remedy and highly recommend against it as it can cause irritation, burning, and in serious cases, a reaction with the skin.

Alternatives
There are much safer alternatives to reducing under-eye puffiness. Applying something cool to your eyes is the best way to reduce the swelling. This can be done with cold compresses or a chilled eye mask.

You can help prevent the appearance of eye puffiness in the morning by getting a good night’s rest and limiting alcohol intake the night before. Sleeping with your head elevated can also help reduce the amount of fluids that collect around the eyes at night. Although using Preparation H for eye puffiness has been recommended for many years, it’s a remedy that can cause complications. If you choose to go this route, you should get all the facts and remember that it’s unsafe to use products for anything than what they were intended.

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