Preparation H is a brand of various creams, ointments and other treatments for hemorrhoids. The McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign describes hemorrhoids as inflamed and swollen veins in the lower rectum and/or anus. Though Preparation H products are intended to treat inflammation in that area, some use the products for different reasons. A common usage, according to Newsweek, is for weight loss in the abdominal region. Consult your physician before applying this product in any off-label usage.
Clean your stomach with body wash and warm water. Gently pat dry with a clean towel.
Wait for the skin on your stomach to dry completely.
Apply approximately 1 tbsp. Preparation H ointment directly to the skin. It's best to put the ointment to the middle of your stomach for even application across the entire abdominal region.
Massage the Preparation H ointment into your stomach until it's absorbed. According to an ABC News article, the ingredients in Preparation H -- namely phenylephrine HCL -- constrict the blood vessels. This, in turn, shrinks the tissue and tightens muscles wherever the Preparation H ointment is applied.
Re-apply the product as needed. According to a Newsweek article, the product's effects lasts for two the three hours.
Warning
Over-applying Preparation H can cause dryness and, in some cases, scaly-looking skin.
References
Writer Bio
Wendy Rose Gould is a professional journalist who has contributed to "Glamour" magazine and the Huffington Post, among other publications. After internships at the "Indianapolis Business Journal," "Kiwanis International" and "NUVO Newsweekly," she earned BA degrees in journalism and philosophy from Franklin College in 2008. Gould specializes in lifestyle topics.