Last Updated on May 22, 2025 by Giorgia Guazzarotti
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. (Also, can we take a second to appreciate the fact that a hemorrhoid cream has become a red carpet staple? Like, who decided that was okay? Hollywood, man.) 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. (Yes, the same kind you spray up your nose when you’re all stuffy and can’t breathe.)
A lot of Preparation H formulas also contain Hydrocortisone to reduce swelling, itching and irritation. That’s fine for your butt. Not so much for your eyeballs.
Related: 5 Mineral Oil Myths You Need To Stop Believing Right Now
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Can Preparation H De-Puff Under-Eye Bags?
In theory, yes. Preparation H can de-puff under-eye bags. Technically speaking, it does what it says on the tin. Temporarily. And with a side of risk.
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… (And honestly, if you’re getting red carpet-ready for a 2-hour event, maybe. But every day? Nope.)
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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. (Think stinging, burning, and possibly a very awkward trip to A&E. Not cute.)
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). You don’t want to trade eye bags for skin that bruises if you look at it too hard.
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. Translation: your bags might come back even puffier than before. Fun!
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. (Seriously, how many of us have fallen for that “cooling metal rollerball” trick?)
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. Bonus tip: try elevating your head slightly with an extra pillow. It helps drain fluid and can reduce puffiness in the morning.
- Stay hydrated: Drink enough water and cut back on salty foods that lead to water retention. (Yes, those late-night fries are sabotaging your face. Tragic.)
- Anti-allergy medication: If you suspect allergies are to blame for your under-eye puffiness, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Dust mites, pet dander, pollen… your under-eyes could be reacting to things you don’t even notice.
- Ice roller/cold spoons: Cold compresses can constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, at least for a little while. Just don’t expect miracles. And make sure you’re not rubbing your skin raw.
Pro tip: pop two teaspoons in the fridge and gently press them to your eyes for a few minutes in the morning. Weirdly soothing.
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. Save the hemorrhoid cream for what it was actually made for. Trust me on this one.