Many of us are familiar with Preparation H for its use in treating hemorrhoids. But did you know that Preparation H is also used to fight wrinkles and relieve puffy eyes?
The ‘secret’ ingredient in Preparation H is Bio-dyne, also known as Live Yeast Cell Derivative – LYCD. This formulation is found only in the Preparation H marketed in Canada and not in the US version. Preparation H Cream found in the USA does not contain biodyne, which was removed when the product was reformulated years ago. Instead, it contains phenylephrine HCI 0.25 % – a vasoconstrictor (shrinks vessels) that some dermatologists claim will constrict capillaries and temporarily reduce dark circles and puffy eyes. However, many individuals report irritation and burning when using the US version of Preparation H.
How does Biodyne work?
There is data to suggest that LYCD accelerates wound healing and is biologically active on skin cells. The active ingredient in biodyne has been isolated as a protein fraction containing a mixture of several peptides. It’s thought that Peptides offer benefits to skin including:
- Wound healing
- Certain skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and eczema.
- Increasing skin thickness
- Reducing wrinkle volume
Used by those in the know
Listed in Diane Iron’s popular book “The World’s Best Kept Beauty Secrets”, Irons claims that many middle-aged celebrities use Preparation H to maintain their youthful looks. Some say that supermodels swear by it as a beauty essential. They claim that this hemorrhoid cream gives them an instant lift when eye bags bother them.
Though its bright yellow and plain packaging won’t win any aesthetic awards, if you’ve tried other products and they don’t work, you may want to consider giving reasonably priced Preparation H a try for puffy eyes.�
how can I get preparation H from canada if that where they sell that version of it
leave it to the USA to figure away of taking something inexpensive away from us so you can but the more expensive stuff that don’t really work
is Bio-dyne sold in any other product that we can buy here in the states
What would be a recommended dose for puffy eyes and what would be the best way to apply?? Q tip, finger,etc..Ok for eye lids???
Hi Kim
As with most topical preparations, you’d apply a small amount. Your skin can only absorb so much, so go lightly using gentle strokes as you are dealing with a sensitive part of the face.
A Q tip is a good idea as will help to prevent contamination of ingredients in the tube but if hands are washed, you should be fine to use your fingers.
Test first to ensure that you don’t react. Generally the product is applied around the eye area. Eyelids may not tolerate it well, but if you test first, then it should be fine.
I live in canada so can get the real deal. it doesn’t seem to be irritating my skin, but how long do you leave it on for???
best to apply at nite and just wash in am? apply twice a day? HELP!
Hi Pam
Please see comments above re application. Once or twice daily is fine, depending on your skin care routine. And once applied, you would leave it on as with any other skin care treatment. Since it contains peptides, they would need to be given time for absorption into the skin.
If this is also a remedy for wrinkles; would you only apply on the wrinkles or the entire face? Should it be a substitute for night creams or be applied under night time moisturizers?
To April:
Preparation H may be applied to the entire face or just that the area you are concerned about. The live yeast cell derivative helps to promote collagen production so will benefit the entire face, should you wish to use it that way.
Depending on your skin type, you can use it in place of your night cream or in addition to your night cream. See what works best for you.
The Candadian Prep-H really does work! I however am curious to know whether daily, or every-other-day use will change the effects of this product. As with such medicinal type products the more you use them consistantly the more immune your body becomes to the same dosage, thus decreasing it’s effectivness. Any proof of this?
Hi,
I just got Canadian Prep-H and have applied it two days in a row. I have not seen any significant improvement and I feel weird walking around with shiny eyes. So my questions are:
How long does it typically take to see results?
could I put makeup over the ointment to knock out the shininess?
Will it work the same if I put it on at night instead of in the morning?
Thanks!
To Demi,
Preparation H contains a peptide which helps to boost collagen production and can help to diminish the appearance of puffy eyes. As with any skin care product, results won’t happen overnight and can take several weeks before you notice an improvement. Yes, you can apply makeup over the cream to help diminish the shine. As well, applying once at night is fine; it just will take longer for results.
To Demi,
Instead of a shiny look..note that the picture at the top refers to the CREAM as opposed to the ointment formulation!! I love the cream…the ointment is greasy!
Well for all you wonderers, Ive read the statements here aout 2 weeks ago and decided to try the Canadian Preperation H, Since I do live in Canada I bought the cream at the drug store around the corner from me…..I’m 45yrs old and have deep wrinkles around my mouth area and puffy eyes from smoking etc. I applied it 2 times a day for the last 2 weeks morning and bedtime…After about 5 days I started to notice my deep wrinkles getting smaller and thinner and after 1 week I definately will continue using it for wrikles….The Puffy eyes treatment for me doesn’t work, or didn’t make a difference…But the wrinkles are dissapearing…..It won’t happen over night or right away though..I will continue to use preperation H for wrinkles though …It is awesome…
So which us better, the cream or ointment? I have been putting the u.s. Ointment on now for a few weeks. Little difference . How do u get some from Canada? Let me know. Thanks
Julie,
The Preparation H cream is the one to use, and only the Canadian product contains BioDyne, the active ingredient which is said to dramatically improve puffiness under the eye.
The evidence is anecdotal rather than scientific, but many of our clients swear by it. You can order it from us online at pharmacymix.com or by calling toll-free 1 866 876 3649
Kind regards, Sharmani
Can it be used on the upper eyelid? I am 41 year old male and justy getting over a minor eye infection which caused my eyelid to swell… and now that the swelling is gone, it is kinda wrinkly and needs something to shrink the skin etc.
thx!
RE: Preparation H on the eyelid, I would use extreme caution using this product above the eye, especially if you’ve recently had an eye infection. The heat from your body may cause the product to run — and on the upper eyelid, as opposed to under the eye, the product is in a perfect position to do that. You may find cold compresses on the eye just as effective.
Hi
I am about to start using the cream and my question is, since I like using self tanning lotion, can this be used at the same time as preparation H? I am worried about looking like a zebra… also I see that the effect might take a couple of weeks… how long can I carry on using it for and how long before the effect wears off once I stop applying it
Dear Sir
I am sceptical on the use of this “preparation H “wich is only approved by our HPB in Canada and not by the U.S.
Preparation H is used for hemorrhoid disorder only, and apparently the company has failed to demonstrate this new indication related to skin damage. Until then, all users are at their own risk and side effects may appear later!
J.Doron Ph.D.
Dr Doron, Thank you for your input!
Dr Doron, what kind of side effects may appear when using Preparation H for wrinkles?
Hi Carrie,
As I don’t know whether the blog visitor you are addressing will see your question, I’ll take the liberty of responding myself. Although some have claimed it was a great ‘quick fix’ for their puffy eyes, there are no scientific studies to support the use of Preparation H with BioDyne in treating eye puffiness, sagging skin or wrinkles. The “buzz” about this product is based on anecdotal evidence only. As there are no scientific studies to support or refute the use of this product for your skin, there are likewise no known side effects. I assume the blog visitor known as Joe Doron PhD is speculating about possible side effects so far undetermined. Best wishes, Sharmani
so does the cream sold in the US does not work for puffy eyes???
For Adriana: if you want a product that is effective against puffy eyes, your Preparation H cream should include BioDyne. This is the ingredient which studies reveal has been effective in tightening up the skin around the eyes.
I have used the Canadian form of preparation H instead of expensive face creams for several years. I just turned 40…no wrinkles and no side effects yet…
Do you know if I use the Preparation H first and then my Day/Night Moisturizer.. Or just use the Preparation H alone?
And yes you’re correct, no beauty product will over work in just a few days, it may take weeks/months before there is any difference in regards to your Wrinkles. You need to be patient..
Hi Sandy. A good moisturizer acts by boosting collagen, thereby plumping up the skin and diminishing the appearance of lines. It will act in much the same way as the Prep H and it won’t really matter which you apply first. What you should do, however, is be sure that you are wearing a good broad-spectrum sunscreen (such as Anthelios by La Roche Posay). And with a chemical sunscreen like Anthelios, it really does matter what goes on in what order. Anthelios products should always be applied next to clean skin. If there is a product underneath it, the sunscreen cannot do its job. The only exception to this rule is a serum (such as Apothekari Vitamin C/E/Ferulic Acid Serum AOX), which is light enough to go on first, be absorbed quickly, and still allow the sunscreen to do its work. Then apply the Prep H. See the comment by Roddy on this page — a Prep H user with some good advice. Best wishes, Sharmani
I thought I would add my experience.Ive been a model for 20 some years and heard about the prepH secret over 20 years ago. we all carried a tube around with us and used it for those early morning shoots.Makeup artists always had it as well..it does work but again,everyone is different and dont expect an incredible difference,just some tightening and overall boost.
When using it,just use common sense.Put it around the eye area,and obviously not in your eye.if you only have the shiny stuff,this will create a strange look under makeup if you put on right after.I would suggest putting on at nightime.Let it absorb into skin and right when you wake up you could put a bit on the bags,wrinkles or whatever.Let it absorb then when ready to do makeup blot off excess.
Hey. I’ve been using preparation h cream for about a month under my eyes for the wrinkles also the creases around my mouth, and haven’t really seen a difference? Does it take more time to work? Let me know.
Thanks!
For Ashlee: the active ingredient in Preparation H with BioDyne is a peptide which functions by boosting collagen. The structure of the cells is improved with additional collagen, improving the appearance of fine lines and sagging skin. There is still the possibility of improvement, and I would advise you to continue the treatment a little longer. It takes time for the full benefits of many skin care products to be appreciated. Three months should do it — if you still don’t notice a difference then, this is not the treatment for you. If after three months you haven’t seen an improvement to bags under the eyes, it’s time to consider the possibility that your under-eye bags are caused by allergies, not by aging skin cells structure. If so, it would be wise to see an allergy specialist. Best wishes, Sharmani
I live in Canada and I finally bought the original hemmorroid cream. I heard about this for at least two years in various beauty magazines before I actually tried it. And, yes, it works! (I am 52 years & mine might also be due to allergies in addition to aging. My Mom is 73 years and it worked on her eyes too.) However, I only use it for special occasions though — celebrating your anniversary, going to a wedding, going out for dinner. I don’t want to use it on a daily basis.If you have puffy skin and you use a product to repeatedly temporarily tightening the skin, I figure eventually the thin skin around your eyes might get looser and the problem might get worse. The rest of the time, you need to do the traditional tips like get enough rest, don’t eat too much salt, & use cool compresses. When you are using the hemmoroid cream, it is shiny so I let it work for a few minutes, then I blot it gently with klennex. Then, I use a soft eye makeup concealer to be used underneath the eye. You need to watch that your eyeliner and mascara doesn’t run and doing the foregoing helps prevent that.
For Laurie: Thanks for sharing your review of Preparation H with BioDyne.
I remember hearing about this on TV and I was wondering if it would be good for other parts of the boy. Right now I am over weight but I’m going to the gym and working on trying to fix my eating habits. My biggest fear tho is if I start losing weight I’ll have to get saggy skin removed later. I was wondering if using pH on my worry spots (Like stomach) would also help tightening up my skin. Right now I’m using Vit. E cream. What do you thing?
Sarah, thanks for your comment on Preparation H. While studies have shown that LYCD in Preparation H with BioDyne is effective in tightening up saggy skin and wrinkles, it may be only superficially effective on parts of the body which contain more fat padding such as the abdomen. But there’s no reason why you shouldn’t give it a try! And we all have every reason to take steps to improve our health. Best wishes, Sharmani
I went out and got myself a tube today. Man do I ever feel awkward putting it on my face. But hey, if it works, I will continue using it.
To Daris… try sleeping on your back?
I usually sleep on my stomach, and I blame that for my puffy eyes, and deep creases that go from my nose, and down past the corners of my mouth.
I live in the USA…how can I get the Preporation H formula that is sold in Canad?
I’v been reading about Preparation H with BioDyne. I have loose skin under my eyes and would like to try the Canadian brand since the article said that the American brand was no longer as effective. How can I get the address to place an order.
Thanks,
Jane
Hi Jane, the version of Preparation H marketed in the US no longer contains the active ingredients which make the product effective against sagging skin. Preparation H with Bio Dyne is available through our website — just click on the product link above to order. Or, you can call us toll free at 1 866 876 3649. Best wishes, Sharmani
Hello Sharmani,
does preparation h contain cortisone? I couldn’t find the list of ingredients. Thank you very much for your reply.
Regards
For Charlotte: The full ingredient list for Preparation H with BioDyne can be found on our product page. Cortisone is not among the ingredients listed. Best wishes, Sharmani
For Karla, Preparation H with BioDyne (Canadian Prep H) can be purchased online at pharmacymix.com. The cost is $21.50 plus shipping and handling charges. While the US product has been used for wrinkles and puffy eyes, the product containing BioDyne (a live yeast cell derivative) has been proven effective through independent studies. Please let us know if we can help you further! Best wishes, Sharmani
i have under eye puffs. and they bad. i understand canadian made preparation h could be useful. is this true. and if so, how can i make an order. ps let me other suggestions that work without surgery. i reside in nigeria. thanks.
For Olisamaka: Please click here to read more about treating puffy eyes. Preparation H from Canada is one of many products which address this condition, and it’s alway good to research widely before you choose. Best wishes, Sharmani
Does anyone know which is the best anti-ageing/wrinkle cream on the market? A side-by-side comparison of the active ingredients may prove that Prep H (Canadian) is a valid substitute. Just my 2 cents.
Will Preparation H irritate skin with acne?
For Debbie, Preparation H may very well interfere with acneic skin. It contains lanolin and petrolatum, which tend to clog pores. For anti aging and acne, I like Green Cream, a high potency non prescription retinol. You may also like to have a look at my article on puffy eyes. Hope this helps! Sharmani
I would like to know if after putting this cream on, can I put a moisturizer on afterwards? This stuff smells like what it is used for!! Yukky!
Anything will help.
thanks
Hi Kym, many people find the smell of Prep H with Biodyne is a little too suggestive of its other purposes! Yes, you can certainly use a moisturizer afterwards, particularly if you’re applying the product at night. You may like to read my article on layering skin care products. As a general rule, by day your priority should be protection from UV damage and moisture retention. Night is a good time for treatments. Hope this helps! Kind regards, Sharmani
I would like to know if prep.h would help with eczema around the eyes because you get bad swelling with eczema.
For Debbie: I would not advise treating eczema with Preh H. Yes, there is inflammation associated with eczema, but the active ingredients act by boosting collagen and by constricting loose skin. This will not address your eczema and may worsen it. If you have further concerns, please see a physician or dermatologist. Best, Sharmani
With the American version, there is also a gel which is cool and blends right in. It is not greasy or too creamy and dries quickly. Just use a dab and rub it in slightly wet hands. After reading about the Canadian version and the active ingredient it contains, I would like to try it. does it come in the gel as well? Also, it is way more expensive than the American type. I realize it has the biodyne, but is it significantly more expensive because of its popularity?
for Barbara: The gel is not available in Canada, although it sounds lovely. We are able to offer only the cream with BioDyne. Comparing the two products would make an interesting study. Also, the cost is designed to be consistent with that given by other online Canadian pharmacies, but it’s also true that products in general tend to be more expensive in Canada. Having said that, if you were to visit us on vacation and buy directly from a walk-in pharmacy, you’d likely find it less expensive than you will online. Hope this helps! Sharmani
Sharmani, I saw one of your posted which suggests that the cream version is the one to get. When I ordered I didn’t realize I ordered the ointment. Other than it being on the greasy side does it still work as the cream does?
For Pam: Actually, we no longer carry the ointment, so if you order Prep H with Biodyne from us, it will certainly be the cream. Both are effective, but the cream is a more acceptable texture for most people. Hope this helps, Sharmani
Will it work for DRY , RED , IRRITATED EYELIDS ?
For Brandy: You want to know if Preparation H with BioDyne is indicated in the case of dry, red, irritated eyelids. I would definitely advise you to see a doctor or dermatologist to verify the cause of this condition before proceeding with any kind of treatment. All the best, Sharmani
The U.S. version worked just great after oral surgery some years ago. Bruises and swelling and all disappeared quickly. I am ready to try it again due to an accident that bruised my face.
Madalyn, Thanks for the tip! Preparation H acts as a vasoconstrictor, so the same action which treats hemorrhoids will likely decrease bruising and swelling. Here’s to a speedy recovery after your injury. Sharmani
Hello Vanella, using Prep H to treat skin after waxing is not a use of the product which is known to me or indicated for the product. In fact, it’ s possible that irritated skin will not respond well to the use of Preparation H. We never recommend it for itchy conditions or any sensitive, dry or flaking area either. However, it appears to decrease swelling, puffiness and sagging skin. If you want to explore further, I’d recommend consulting your esthetician or dermatologist. Best wishes, Sharmani
I bought some prep h cream from canada online, can’t remember where. But today I used it on my forehead wrinkles. Yes the product smells but if you can bear that it was amazing! Straightaway after I rubbed it in I noticed a slight difference the grooves where not so deep from tiredness. Straight after I actually could feel that my skin area where I had applied felt tightened and continued to feel tightened. I will post results after using for a few days. I have not been able to bring myself to use it all over my face yet due to the smell nor would I use it everyday but if you have an event or something coming up its definitely useful for that! I’m going visiting relatives so will be nice to go looking refreshed a bit.
Hi everyone,
I am from Canada and I have been using Prep H the creme for about a year now and have seen wonderful results. Skin has tightened up around my eyes, forhead and mouth. I use it once at bedtime and if my eyes are a little puffy in the morning I will put some on. It does smell fishy at first but as you use it more and more the smell seems to not affect you and you get use to it. It is a very inexpensive way to help your skin look fresher and a tube can last up to two months of use. I am 43 years old and people think that I am 33 instead. I didn’t use it for one month one time because the store that I was getting it at couldn’t get any, there was a shortage of supplies at the warehouse I was told. “Guess what happened,” wrinkles started to come back, was I glad when they called and said the shipment had come in. Now everything is back to normal and I buy two tubes at a time in order not to run out. I have no side effects, my skin is tight and fresh even after use for one year. Well good luck people and I hope you have the same results that I have incurred.
Hi I’m all the way in London and I’ve only just heard about this amazing cream.
Obviously we can’t buy the original formula either but, I found somewhere that sells the ointment! It has biodyne in it so I’m hoping it works as well as the cream?
I would be very grateful for some feedback? Ointment v Cream!
Many thanks
Amanda
For Amanda:
The full ingredient list for Preparation H cream is available on our website and can be used to compare the active ingredients of the ointment version you have in London. As for choosing the cream or ointment, it is a matter of which form you personally prefer.
Best, Sharmani
I use it after I take a shower. Its the first thing that goes on my face. Meanwhile I’ll get dressed and what not. Then i just put my usual face cream over it, then the makeup. I don’t wash it off. I noticed real results in about two weeks. I love it! I also use it on my neck top of my hands and my thighs.
I would like to know if this would be helpful in tightening my neck area!
For Tammy:
Although BioDyne contains several peptides that are useful in skincare for boosting collagen production and reducing the appearance of wrinkles, no clinical studies have been done on the effectiveness of tightening the neck area. In addtion to increasing collagen production and protecting your skin against the sun, you may want to consider adding a firming cream to your skincare routine. Be warned, however, that there is no quick fix.
Best, Sharmani
Hi, I’m wondering why the Dermatologists and Cosmetic companies aren’t all over this information. I mean, if it’s true, wouldn’t they make a lot of money off of products that actually work?
For Jessie,
No clinical studies have been done specifically on the effectiveness of Preparation H Cream for puffy eyes and wrinkles. However, since BioDyne is a peptide which functions by boosting collagen production, anecdotal evidence indicates that it works on fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides, with their moisture-binding and cell-communicating abilities, can be found in many effective anti-aging skin care products.
Best, Sharmani
ok, I’m almost afraid to say this because I don’t want the price to get jacked up (seriously!) – but I used Prep H for many years – and it does work! BUT, I stopped using the Prep H for the Made from Earth Cucumber Cooling Gel. This is the best thing (next to preparation H) that I’ve found for my under eyes.It is a gel and it does shrink the under eye eggs and just really smoothes and tightens it out pretty well (for me). I have fairly bad under eyes, so I have been well pleased with this.
But if you don’t purchase the Canadian proper PH does the American made proper PH have the same effects?
For Jo-Ann,
BioDyne, the active ingredient in the Canadian formula of Preparation H, contains several peptides, which are widely used in anti-wrinkle and anti-aging creams. As far as we know, the American formula, which does not contain BioDyne, would not have the same effect on wrinkles and puffiness under the eyes.
Best, Sharmani
Do you still sell the Canadian Preparation H on your site? I can’t find it
For Lynn,
Yes, we still carry Preparation H Cream with BioDyne. Follow the link here to our webpage.
Best, Sharmani
Hi I have heard that the original prep h could thin the skin. Does the Prep H with biodyne also thin the skin or not? Thanks Suzie
For Sue,
Thanks for your question. The Canadian version of Preparation H with BioDyne does not contain any ingredients that are known to thin the skin. However, if this is a particular concern to you that is connected to an existing condition, you may want to consult your health care professional prior to use.
Best, Sharmani
I started using the Canadian preparation H about a month ago for sagging skin under may neck. I use it basically as a night cream. Thus far, I have noticed a very pleasant improvement! Will the sagging return if I stop using the preparation H? I am also doing facial exercises.
For Henrine,
Thank you for your question. We are pleased to hear that the Preparation H Cream with BioDyne is working for you. It’s a customer favorite here! Although skin reacts very individually, in general, maintenance is usually required to keep up the results when it comes to healthy skin. Permanent results with no maintenance often involve more invasive procedures.
Best, Sharmani
For Sue – There IS a formulation of Preparation H that will thin the skin, but it is not these. The type of Preparation H that will cause thinning of the skin is the one that contains Hydrocortisone 1%, and it is clearly labeled right underneath Preparation H. Don’t buy that one. It is common knowledge that longer term use of Hydrocortisone will thin your skin, but it is used on some skin problems that need some extra help – for a limited period of time. Anyway, you needn’t worry about getting the wrong one as the label clearly shows whether it has Hydrocortisone or not – right on the box in the front in big letters.