Can you use Preparation H for wrinkles?

What does Preparation H actually do?

The US Preparation H Maximum Strength cream with aloe contains glycerin 14.4% and white petrolatum 15% as protectants, phenylephrine HCl 0.25% as a vasoconstrictor, which narrows blood vessels, and pramoxine HCl 1% as a local anesthetic. Its uses include temporarily shrinking hemorrhoidal tissue and relieving hemorrhoid discomfort. Those are not directions for treating wrinkles. Match the advice to the actual tube: the warning about a hydrocortisone cream is different from the warning about this formula.1

Making lines less noticeable through moisturizing is different from removing wrinkles or increasing collagen production, which is a distinction that deserves more space on the jar. A product being a medicine does not make it a medicine for wrinkles. Do not turn Preparation H's hemorrhoid application schedule into a facial routine.14

What about under eye lines or hydrocortisone?

Do not substitute hydrocortisone for an eye cream or wrinkle cream. Hydrocortisone is a steroid medicine for inflammatory skin conditions, and you should speak to a pharmacist or doctor before using it on your face. Possible side effects include skin thinning and visible small blood vessels. Eyelid skin absorbs topical steroids especially readily. Excessive steroid use around the eyes over weeks to months can lead to glaucoma or cataracts. These are steroid concerns, not claims about the different active ingredients in the US Maximum Strength formula above.5

What if you have already used it?

Stop using Preparation H and ask a doctor if an allergic reaction develops, or if redness, irritation, swelling or pain develops or increases. Before using the US Maximum Strength cream for its intended purpose, ask a doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease or diabetes. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you take prescription medicine for high blood pressure or depression. If pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use.1

What should you use for wrinkles instead?

1. 1Start with moisturizer. Moisturizing holds water in the skin and can immediately plump some fine lines.
2. 2Every day, apply broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to exposed skin. Sun exposure accelerates skin aging; avoid tanning.
3. 3If a retinoid suits your skin, choose the least intense formula available and start every other night. Increase use slowly, use moisturizer and keep up daytime sun protection.
4. 4Test a new skincare product on your inner forearm twice daily for 4 to 5 days before facial use. Follow its directions rather than applying extra.

Moisturizer can make fine lines less noticeable by holding water in the skin, which gives water a surprisingly glamorous job description.2

Retinoids are vitamin A based skincare ingredients; tretinoin boosts collagen and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol is an option available without a prescription. Retinoids are not suitable during pregnancy. Skin allergies, dryness or substantial redness make them a less suitable choice, so discuss alternatives with a dermatologist. Irritation can trigger dark marks in darker skin.3

Most wrinkle products need at least six weeks, and sometimes three months, to work. Stop a nonprescription skincare product that stings or burns: irritation makes signs of aging more noticeable. Avoid stacking several wrinkle products. If a consistent routine still falls short, a dermatologist can discuss further treatment options.2