Preparation H is designed to relieve pain and inflammation associated with hemorrhoids. It works by aggressively shrinking and tightening hemorrhoidal tissue. Though Preparation H is not intended for this purpose, it can also be used to try to temporarily shrink and tighten wrinkled and saggy skin. It is worth noting that the effects of this treatment are short-term, so while it may work to treat wrinkles and sagging skin for a special occasion, the skin will return to its previous state after some time has passed.
Make sure your skin is clean and dry before beginning.
Spread a thin, even layer of Preparation H over the areas you want to treat. This treatment works well on ankles, calves, thighs, buttocks, arms, wrists and the abdomen. You should not apply the cream to your neck or face. You should do this in the evening before preparing for bed.
Wrap the treated areas in a single layer of plastic wrap. This is simply to keep the cream from rubbing off in your sleep. Wrap the areas completely, but not too tightly.
Sleep through the night.
Remove the plastic wrap in the morning, then shower to wash away any residue from the cream. Your skin should be tighter, firmer and smoother, and the results should last for about a day.
Warning
This process forces the skin to contract and then release over roughly a 24-hour period. This is somewhat of a workout for your skin, and can reduce skin elasticity if this process is used too frequently or too many times. Though there is anecdotal evidence of this practice and its effectiveness, Wyeth Consumer Healthcare makers of Preparation H, do not endorse its practice.
References
- Book: "The New Science of Perfect Skin: Understanding Skin Care Myths and Miracles For Radiant Skin at Any Age," Daniel Yarosh, 2008
- "Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things: 2,317 Ways to Save Money and Time," Reader's Digest, 2007