Does haemorrhoid cream help with bags under the eyes?

Stephanie Coorevits said on a podcast that she puts haemorrhoid cream on her under-eye bags. HLN asked Dr Griet Voet whether that is a good idea.

Dr Voet explains that eye bags are caused by fluid build-up, dilated small blood vessels, sagging fat and thinner skin. Lack of sleep, salty food, smoking, alcohol and stress play a part, as do eczema or rosacea around the eyes. Enough sleep with the head slightly raised, cool compresses, drinking enough water and a low-salt diet help. An eye cream containing caffeine or hyaluronic acid, among other things, can offer support.

The cortisone in haemorrhoid cream can reduce swelling, but Dr Voet advises against it: it can cause irritation and spots and, with prolonged use, thin the skin. For those who want more, there are treatments such as fillers, microneedling, fractional laser or eyelid surgery.

• Sleep at least seven hours, possibly with an extra pillow.

• Cool compresses and little salt help against swelling.

• Do not use haemorrhoid cream around the eyes.

• Choose an eye cream with caffeine, vitamin C or hyaluronic acid instead.