Every few years, the internet lights up with a new miracle product that gains viral fame and changes the game. Preparation H, or hemerrhoid cream, has done the same. But can it actually help your under-eye bags and crow's feet?
In short - it can do, but not long term.
Preparation H, and other such creams that are traditionally used for treating piles, contain phenylephrine and work by constricting blood vessels, making the area less red and inflamed.
Hemerrhoid cream also contains hydrocortisone, an anti-inflammatory that can reduce puffiness. Sounds like the ideal combination for brightening up your skin, right? Well, that's not actually the case.
Using these creams on the area can reduce the appearance of under-eye bags, but there are other risks that you should be aware of before you go slathering it all over your under-eye.
Firstly, other ingredients in the cream can cause serious damage to the eyes if they get into them, which is far worse than a couple of eye bags, if you ask us.
Secondly, prolonged use of the solution can result in thinner, more fragile skin, which could actually make your eye bags and wrinkles worse over time. What's more, hydrocortisone is a steroid, which any doctor (or WebMD session) will tell you, that using over a long period of time or too frequently, isn't good for your health.
Finally, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that hemorrhoid cream is any better for reducing puffiness than other creams or eye serums that are specifically designed for that area - so you’re probably better off just buying one fit for purpose.
Luckily for you, we've rounded up some of the top-rated eye creams and treatments that won't break the bank...
SHOP: Best eye creams to reduce puffiness and brighten your eyes
1 of 15Neutrogena Hydro Boost Eye Awakening Gel-Cream
If skin dryness is your main issue, Neutrogena's Hydro Boost range should be on your radar. This Eye Awakening Gel Cream contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling fresh, plumped and soothed. It won't work miracles for wrinkles, but we still think it deserves a spot on the list for a morning pick-me-up.
£4.95
- Rrp: £11.99
2 of 15Wishful Eye Lift & Snatch Bakuchiol & Peptide Serum
This cooling serum from Huda Beauty not only leaves your eyes looking brighter and de-puffed, it's refillable to reduce waste.
3 of 15TRANSFORMULAS EyeLifting In A Tube
This product from TRANSFORMULAS is pretty amazing - it not only hydrates skin and boosts elasticity, but it has a tightening and firming effect, which you can actually feel working. It does require a specific application technique, so make sure to read the instructions thoroughly.
4 of 15Manuka Doctor ApiNourish Age-Defying Eye Cream
This cream from Manuka Doctor helps to reduce the appearance of dark circles, brighten the eyes and restore skin's softness.
5 of 15BIO2YOU Natural Eye Contour Cream,
This eye cream strengthens, nourishes, moisturises and offers comfort to the under-eye area. It's a natural formula, so it doesn't contain any dyes, or alcohol and is cruelty-free.
6 of 15CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
CeraVe is well known for its products that have great results without the crippling price tag. This cream reduces the look of dark circles and puffiness using three essential ceramides to protect the skin's natural barrier. It contains hyaluronic acid to trap moisture in the skin and is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
7 of 15Nuxe Creme Prodigieuse Boost Multi-Correction Eye Balm Gel
This soothing eye gel contains a botanical caffeine extract that helps counteract darkness under the eyes and any puffiness. It's paraben-free, mineral oil-free, ophthalmologically tested and non-comedogenic.
8 of 15StriVectin Hyaluronic Tripeptide Gel-Cream for Eyes 15ml
This StriVectin Gel-Cream works to hydrate and moisturise the delicate eye area intensely. It not only reduces the look of fine lines and dark circles but neutralises the visible effects of blue light exposure.
9 of 15The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%
Studies have shown that argireline improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, especially on the forehead and around the eyes. This lightweight serum from The Ordinary can reduce folds in the skin, as well as helping to prevent wrinkles. Not to sound dramatic, but this is a miracle worker.
10 of 15Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream
If you're a fan of the lazy skincare routine, this quick-absorbing eye cream will fit right in to your collection. It leaves the eye area feeling smooth and refreshed, is lightweight, and sits perfectly under make-up. Also, it smells DIVINE.
11 of 15The INKEY List Caffeine Serum
Caffeine is a brilliant ingredient to brighten up the eye area, and The INKEY List's Caffeine Serum goes to work to reduce puffiness, brighten up the skin and wake you up. It's also enhanced with renowned peptide, Matrixyl 3000, which helps to boost collagen production.
12 of 15Vichy Mineral 89 Eyes Hyaluronic Acid Eye Fortifier
This revitalising formula is powered by caffeine, natural origin hyaluronic acid, adenosine and 89% Vichy Thermal Mineralising Water. It soothes and moisturises the skin, creating a dewy, plumped effect for up to 24 hours.
13 of 15Organic Apoteke Rejuvenating Eye Cream
This cream might be pricey, but a little goes a long way. It's a thin liquid, so don't go too hard on the pump. Upon application, the skin under the eye feels immediately tighter, looks brighter and is hydrated. After a few weeks' use, lines around your eyes will appear reduced, you can say goodbye to morning puffiness and your make-up will go on more smoothly.
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14 of 15Wake Skincare Eye Gel
This lightweight eye cream has no scent to it, so it's ideal for those with sensitive skin. It sinks into the skin straight away, leaving it feeling refreshed, soft and cool. Great for the morning after a few glasses of wine. In just a few weeks, lines around the eyes are less obvious. Plus, you can also use it on other areas of your face - I like to use any extra on my forehead and I can really see a difference. It's no wonder it has so many 5* reviews on Amazon.
15 of 15MUDMASKY Serum Infused Eye Mask
This serum-infused eye formula is amazing for the sensitive skin under your eyes. Your under eyes will feel smoother and more plump from the use of natural antioxidants.
Other ways to get rid of eye bags
There are also many natural remedies and handy tricks for getting rid of eye bags, many of which you may have heard of previously. Try one of these out each day for at least a few weeks before giving up - you could just find yourself the perfect fix.
Tea bags
It isn't just an old wives' tale, you know! Tea (especially green tea) has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe your under-eye area. Soak a tea bag in clean, hot water for a couple of minutes. Carefully remove the teabags and wait for them to cool down (you can put them in the fridge, if it helps) and then place them on your eyes. Leave them on for ten minutes - the perfect chance for a little meditation - before removing and rinsing.
Cold compress or face mask
Don't want to faff around with tea bags? Invest in a gel cooling mask if you're prone to puffy eyes and dark circles. Simply place the mask in the fridge for 30 minutes and apply for around 20 minutes for it to work its magic.
Cucumber
Not just a prop used in the movies, cucumber actually does help to reduce dark circles. Chop yourself a couple of thick slices straight out of the fridge and place on your eyes for 10 minutes. Your eyes should look brighter and you'll feel fresh!
Wearing sunglasses
There's a reason celebs wear sunglasses 24/7 - because squinting at the sun is no fun! Wearing sunglasses means your eyes can relax and you're less likely to get fine lines and wrinkles.
Wearing SPF
There's nothing more important in your skincare routine than wearing SPF. It ensures your skin is protected from harmful rays, which are present even on dull days. No excuses.