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What Does Hemorrhoids Cream Do for Rapid Relief?

Hemorrhoid.com By Hemorrhoid.com | June 18, 2025

Persistent itching, burning, or swelling around the anus isn’t just uncomfortable, it can be a sign of hemorrhoids, a condition affecting millions of adults worldwide. While not usually dangerous, the symptoms can be painful and disrupt your everyday life.

That’s where hemorrhoid creams and ointments come in. These topical treatments are designed to relieve discomfort by reducing inflammation, soothing irritated skin, and promoting healing.

With the right cream, many people can manage symptoms effectively and avoid more invasive treatments.

So, in this blog, we will be sharing what hemorrhoids cream essentially does, the active ingredients used in making these creams, and the benefits and side effects of them. Let’s dive in.

What is a Hemorrhoids Cream?

A hemorrhoids cream, such as the Revivol-XR, is a topical medication designed to relieve symptoms associated with hemorrhoids, such as itching, burning, swelling, and pain. It is applied directly to the affected area around or inside the anus, depending on the formulation.

Unlike oral treatments or surgery, creams work locally and quickly, offering short-term symptom relief.

How Hemorrhoid Creams Work: Active Ingredients Explained

Active Ingredients in a Hemorrhoid Cream

Hemorrhoid creams are designed to target discomfort at the source. Each active ingredient plays a specific role, whether it’s reducing swelling, numbing pain, or soothing irritated skin.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common ingredients and what they do.

1. Reduce Swelling with Phenylephrine

Phenylephrine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it tightens blood vessels in the affected area. This reduces swelling, eases inflammation, and helps relieve pressure that causes itching or pain. It’s commonly used in over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams for fast, localized relief.

2. Numb Pain Instantly with Lidocaine

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that blocks nerve signals to numb the area. It provides fast-acting relief from itching, burning, and pain, making it ideal during flare-ups or after bowel movements.

However, make sure to use it sparingly and as directed by your healthcare provider to avoid skin sensitivity.

3. Calm Itching and Inflammation with Hydrocortisone

Hydrocortisone is a mild steroid that tackles inflammation, redness, and itching. It’s especially useful for chronic or persistent hemorrhoid symptoms.

However, prolonged use can lead to skin thinning, so short-term application is recommended unless advised otherwise by a doctor.

4. Protect and Heal with Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide forms a barrier on the skin, keeping moisture out and allowing irritated tissue to heal, but it is important to be aware of possible side effects. It also acts as a mild astringent, helping to tighten the skin and reduce further irritation.

It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and promotes recovery.

5. Soothe Naturally with Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a plant-based astringent with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It helps shrink swollen tissues, calm itching, and reduce irritation without harsh chemicals. It’s often found in natural or sensitive-skin formulations of hemorrhoid creams.

Each ingredient in a hemorrhoid cream addresses a specific symptom, so choosing a hemorrhoid cream depends on the relief you need, whether it’s pain, swelling, or irritation. Always read the label and consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure which product is right for you.

Also Read: Soothing Hemorrhoid Cream for Prolonged Standing

What are the Benefits of Using Hemorrhoids Cream?

Infographic on Benefits of Using Hemorrhoids Cream

Hemorrhoid creams offer quick, localized relief from symptoms like pain, swelling, and itching.

They’re non-invasive, easy to apply, and often available without a prescription, making them a practical first step in managing mild to moderate cases of hemorrhoids.

1. Immediate Relief from Pain and Itching

Hemorrhoid creams offer fast relief from pain and itching, thanks to ingredients like lidocaine, which numbs the area on contact. This temporary effect helps ease discomfort during flare-ups and supports better daily function.

Consistent use as directed can help manage recurring symptoms while minimizing the risk of side effects. Since flare-ups are unpredictable, keeping an OTC cream on hand ensures quick access to relief. If symptoms persist or cause skin dryness, consult a healthcare provider.

2. Reduces Swelling

These creams help reduce swelling by calming inflammation and shrinking blood vessels. Phenylephrine, a common active ingredient, constricts the affected area to ease pressure and discomfort.

By reducing inflammation, the creams support healing and make sitting, walking, and bowel movements more comfortable. Choose formulas free from dyes and irritants, and seek medical advice if swelling doesn’t improve.

3. Easy, Targeted Application

Hemorrhoid creams are simple to use and easy to incorporate into your routine. Built-in applicators allow for direct, mess-free application to external or internal areas.

They require no special storage and can be used at home or while traveling, offering convenient symptom control when you need it most.

4. Non-Invasive Symptom Management

Topical creams offer relief without surgery. They target pain, swelling, and itching directly at the source, using ingredients like lidocaine and phenylephrine to reduce discomfort during bowel movements.

This non-invasive approach is discreet, effective, and can be used regularly to improve quality of life without interrupting your daily schedule.

5. Over-the-Counter Accessibility

Most hemorrhoid creams are available without a prescription, making them easy to purchase at pharmacies. Products like Revivol-XR contain proven ingredients for fast symptom relief.

Also Read: Soothing Hemorrhoid Cream For Comfort & Relief.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply Hemorrhoid Cream Safely and Effectively

Correct application is key to getting relief and avoiding irritation. Follow these steps to ensure the cream works as intended:

Step 1- Clean the Area First

Start the process by using a mild soap and warm water to gently clean the anal area. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft towel.

Do not rub the region as this can irritate the skin.

Step 2- Wash Your Hands

Always wash your hands before and after applying the cream to prevent infection and avoid spreading bacteria.

Step 3- Apply a Small Amount

Squeeze a pea-sized amount of cream onto your fingertip or an applicator (if included).

Do not overuse the product. Too much cream can cause irritation or reduce effectiveness.

Step 4- Apply Externally or Internally (If Recommended)

For external hemorrhoids, gently dab the cream around the outside of the anus.

For internal hemorrhoids, use the provided applicator to insert the cream just inside the rectum, following the product’s instructions carefully.

Step 5- Follow Dosage Instructions

Only apply the cream as often as directed: typically up to 3–4 times a day. Avoid prolonged use, especially with steroid-based creams, unless advised by a doctor.

Step 6- Watch for Side Effects

If you notice increased irritation, rash, or worsening symptoms, stop using the cream and consult a healthcare provider.

What are the Potential Side Effects and Important Considerations of Using a Hemorrhoids Cream?

While hemorrhoid creams provide symptom relief, they can also cause side effects, especially when misused or overused. Understanding these risks helps ensure safer and more effective treatment.

1. Watch for Skin Irritation

Some users may experience redness, stinging, or rash after applying hemorrhoid cream, especially those with sensitive skin.

This is because ingredients like lidocaine and hydrocortisone can be irritating if used too frequently or on broken skin. Discontinue use if irritation worsens, and consult a healthcare provider immediately.

2. Be Alert to Allergic Reactions

Allergic responses may include swelling, itching, burning, or hives. These can be triggered by active or inactive ingredients, such as preservatives or numbing agents.

If you’ve never used a particular cream before, consider doing a patch test on a small area first.

3. Limit Prolonged Use

Using creams with steroids like hydrocortisone for more than 7 days can thin the skin, reduce its protective barrier, and increase the risk of infection.

That is why it is important to always stick to the recommended duration and frequency stated on the label or by your doctor.

4. Remember it’s not a Permanent Solution

Hemorrhoid creams treat symptoms, not the root cause. Relying on them alone won’t prevent recurrence.

Long-term relief often requires dietary changes, improved hygiene, and medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

Which Hemorrhoid Cream Is Right for You? A Side-by-Side Comparison

Choosing the right hemorrhoid cream depends on your symptoms, whether you’re dealing with pain, swelling, or skin irritation. Here’s a comparison of popular creams, their key ingredients, and what they’re best suited for:

Brand Key Ingredients Best For
Revivol-XR Lidocaine, Phenylephrine, Witch Hazel Rapid pain relief, reducing swelling, and calming irritation
Ancare Ointment Homeopathic ingredients (e.g., Aesculus, Hamamelis) Mild hemorrhoid symptoms, itching, and burning; preferred by homeopathy users
Anusol Zinc Oxide, Hydrocortisone Soothing irritated skin and protecting the area
Sitcom LD Rectal Cream Lidocaine, Zinc Oxide, Allantoin External hemorrhoids, localized pain relief, and promoting healing
Rapid Gel 30gm Lidocaine, Calcium Dobesilate Quick relief from hemorrhoid pain, inflammation, and vascular swelling

4 Lifestyle Tips to Boost the Effectiveness of Hemorrhoid Creams

Infographic on 4 Lifestyle Tips to Boost the Effectiveness of Hemorrhoid Creams

Hemorrhoid creams offer temporary relief, but combining them with healthy habits can make treatment more effective and help prevent flare-ups. Here are simple changes that support long-term symptom management:

1. Eat More Fiber to Prevent Constipation

Add more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to your meals. A high-fiber diet softens stools and promotes easier bowel movements, reducing the strain that can worsen hemorrhoids.

2. Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Drinking enough water, at least 6 to 8 glasses daily, helps keep stools soft and prevents dehydration-related constipation. This reduces pressure on the rectal area during bowel movements.

3. Move Regularly and Avoid Sitting Too Long

Take short walks or stretch every hour if you sit for extended periods. Prolonged sitting increases pressure on the rectal veins and can aggravate hemorrhoid symptoms.

4. Practice Gentle Hygiene

Clean the anal area with warm water and mild soap after each bowel movement. Avoid harsh wipes or rough toilet paper, which can irritate the skin and slow healing.

These lifestyle changes, when used alongside hemorrhoid creams, can ease symptoms faster and help prevent future discomfort.

Looking for an Effective Hemorrhoid Cream? Revivol-XR Has Got You Covered.

Relief shouldn’t be complicated or outdated. Revivol-XR’s Advanced Hemorrhoid & Fissure Relief Cream delivers targeted support where you need it most.

Formulated with 5% Lidocaine for fast numbing relief and Phenylephrine to reduce swelling, it calms discomfort, soothes sensitive skin, and helps you get back to living pain-free.

Combined with botanical extracts like aloe and witch hazel, it does more than mask symptoms: it supports healing.

Don’t suffer in silence; experience real relief today. Contact us!

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Hemorrhoid Relief

Managing hemorrhoids starts with understanding your options. Knowing how hemorrhoid creams work and what ingredients like lidocaine and phenylephrine actually do can help you make better, faster treatment choices.

Pairing the right cream with smart daily habits, like eating more fiber and avoiding prolonged sitting, improves your chances of long-term relief.

However, if symptoms persist, talk to a healthcare provider to explore further options. With the right knowledge and approach, relief is not only possible: it’s within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Can You Apply Hemorrhoids Cream?

Hemorrhoid cream can typically be applied up to four times daily, but it’s essential to follow the specific instructions on the product label. Overuse for extended periods of time may lead to skin irritation or other side effects, so use hemorrhoid cream with caution and consult a healthcare professional if uncertain.

Can Hemorrhoids Cream Be Used During Pregnancy?

Pregnant individuals should consult a healthcare professional before using hemorrhoid cream, as some active ingredients may be absorbed into the bloodstream and may not be safe during pregnancy. In case of any adverse effects, contact a poison control center for guidance. Alternative treatments might be recommended. Always prioritize safety and effective management of symptoms while considering both the mother’s and the baby’s health.

Is Hemorrhoids Cream Suitable for All Types of Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoid creams are primarily effective for external hemorrhoids and some mild cases of internal hemorrhoids. However, severe or prolapsed hemorrhoids may require alternative treatments. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist to determine the best course of treatment based on your specific condition.

Does hemorrhoid cream shrink hemorrhoids?

Yes, many hemorrhoid creams contain ingredients like phenylephrine that constrict blood vessels, helping reduce swelling and shrink hemorrhoids temporarily.

Does hemorrhoid cream work on external hemorrhoids?

Yes, hemorrhoid creams are effective on external hemorrhoids, providing relief from pain, itching, and inflammation with topical, direct application.