Best Hemorrhoidal Creams for 2025: Relief from Pain, Itching, and Swelling

Hemorrhoids, those swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum, affect millions worldwide, causing discomfort, itching, pain, and sometimes bleeding. While lifestyle changes like increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated are essential for prevention, over-the-counter (OTC) hemorrhoidal creams provide quick symptomatic relief. These topical treatments often contain ingredients like phenylephrine (a vasoconstrictor to shrink swelling), hydrocortisone (a steroid to reduce inflammation), lidocaine or pramoxine (anesthetics for pain), and soothing agents such as witch hazel or aloe vera.

In this article, we’ve ranked the top 5 hemorrhoidal creams based on pharmacist recommendations, user reviews, active ingredients, and effectiveness for external and internal use. These picks are drawn from expert analyses and sales data as of 2025. Remember, consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, as stronger prescription options like Proctocream HC may be needed.

1. Preparation H Rapid Relief with Lidocaine Cream

4.6 out of 5 Ratings

Preparation H’s Rapid Relief formula tops our list for its fast-acting combination of 5% lidocaine for numbing pain and itching, plus phenylephrine to reduce swelling. It’s ideal for external hemorrhoids and provides multi-symptom relief within minutes. Users praise its non-greasy texture and soothing aloe addition, making it suitable for daily use. Apply up to four times daily, but avoid long-term steroid-free use without guidance.

Key Ingredients: Lidocaine 5%, phenylephrine HCl 0.25%, aloe vera.
Best For: Quick pain relief and burning sensation.
Pros: Rapid onset, widely available, gentle on skin.
Cons: May sting initially on open skin.
Price Range: $10–$15 for 1.8 oz tube.

2. MyMagicHealer Flare Care Hemorrhoids

4.4 out of 5 Ratings

A pharmacist-favorite for maximum-strength numbing, MyMagicHealer Flare Care Hemorrhoids. Effective for hidradenitis suppurativa, boils and cysts, fissures, hemorrhoids, abscess, staph infections, anti-chafing, pilonidal cysts, stye eye cure and more. Designed to calm redness, ease pain, and protect skin. Safe for sensitive areas and trusted by thousands for HS, boils, fissures, hemorrhoids, abscesses, scars, and chronic skin irritation.

Key Ingredients:
Best For: Intense pain and post-procedure soreness.
Pros: Strongest OTC anesthetic, versatile for anal fissures too.
Cons: Not for those with lidocaine allergies; requires applicator for internal use.
Price Range: $59

3. Wowday Hemorrhoid Cream

4.5 out of 5 Ratings

Flushable Hemorrhoid Wipes | Medicated Witch Hazel Wipes Ph Balanced | 304 Count Fragrance Free Adult Hemorrhoid Treatment Witch Hazels Wipe for Butt Itch Relief Soothing.

Natural Witch Hazel Comfort – These hemorrhoid relief wipes with organic witch hazel, aloe vera, and Pleione provide cooling relief. Gently cleanse sensitive areas with our hemorrhoid treatment wipes while reducing itching, burning, and irritation for lasting comfort. Fragrance Free Sensitive Care – Specially crafted without fragrance or colorants, our witch hazel wipes for butt are safe for delicate skin. Hemorrhoid wipes flushable deliver targeted hemorrhoid relief and itch comfort while protecting sensitive areas.

Key Ingredients: Disposable
Best For: External hemorrhoids with dryness or irritation.
Pros: Affordable, moisturizing, pairs well with wipes.
Cons: Less effective for severe pain compared to lidocaine versions.
Price Range: $25

4. Anesthetic Hemorrhoidal Cooling Soothing Aloe

4.6 out of 5 Ratings

Anesthetic Hemorrhoidal Cooling Gel with Soothing Aloe 3 Pack. Clear, Non-Greasy Formula with No Unpleasant Scent. Prompt Cooling Relief from Painful Burning and Itching. Shrinks Swollen Hemorrhoidal Tissue. Relieves External Discomfort.

Key Ingredients: Lidocaine 5%, phenylephrine, witch hazel, zinc oxide.
Best For: Multi-symptom relief including bleeding-prone hemorrhoids.
Pros: Natural additives, large tube size, budget-friendly.
Cons: Slightly thicker texture may feel heavy.
Price Range: $10

5. Doctor Butler’s Hemorrhoid & Fissure Ointment

4.5 out of 5 Ratings

For a natural-leaning option, Doctor Butler’s ointment combines lidocaine 5% with tea tree oil, aloe, and beeswax to soothe and protect while numbing pain. It’s particularly effective for sensitive skin and fissures alongside hemorrhoids, providing long-lasting moisture without steroids. Experts note its gentle efficacy for ongoing management.

Key Ingredients: Lidocaine 5%, tea tree oil, aloe vera, beeswax.
Best For: Sensitive skin and combined fissure/hemorrhoid issues.
Pros: Natural formula, odorless, promotes skin barrier repair.
Cons: Ointment consistency can be messy; pricier per ounce.
Price Range: $25–$30 for 2 oz jar.

How We Selected These Creams

Our rankings prioritize products with proven active ingredients, high pharmacist and user ratings (from sources like U.S. News and Amazon), and versatility for common symptoms. We focused on OTC options under $30, emphasizing safety for short-term use (up to 7 days). Always patch-test new creams and avoid if you have allergies.

Tips for Using Hemorrhoidal Creams Effectively

• Clean First: Gently wash the area with warm water and pat dry before applying.
• Apply Sparingly: Use a pea-sized amount 2–4 times daily, or as directed.
• Combine Therapies: Pair with fiber supplements, stool softeners, or sitz baths for better results.
• When to See a Doctor: If bleeding is heavy, pain is unbearable, or symptoms last over a week, seek medical advice—prescription hydrocortisone creams may be warranted.

Relief is within reach—choose based on your primary symptom, and reclaim comfort today.