Astringents cause coagulation of proteins in cells of perianal skin or the feed on the anal canal. This action promote dryness of the skin, which in turn helps relieve burning, itching and pain in case of hemorrhoids.

Astringents include:

Calamine 5% to 25%

Zinc oxide 5% to 25% (Calmol 4, Nupercainal, Tronolane)

WITCH HAZEL 10% to 50% (Fleet drugs, Tucker, Witch Hazel Hemorrhoidal pads)