Witch Hazel for Skin: 4 Benefits of Witch Hazel Astringent

Witch hazel (Hamamelis) is a small tree whose extract is often used as a natural astringent. Witch hazel ointment is created by distilling the liquid from the witch hazel bark and witch hazel leaves. The North American witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is the witch hazel commonly used to make skincare products.

You can purchase witch hazel over the counter as an extract by itself—usually called witch hazel water. Witch hazel is also the primary ingredient in several skin care products, including cleanser, toner, astringents, lotion, and moisturizer. Witch hazel products can also contain alcohol, especially witch hazel astringents. Alcohol-free products will be more gentle on the skin.

For centuries, witch hazel has been a common home remedy for various skin conditions, including inflammation, irritation, and acne. Some of the benefits of witch hazel include:

1. 1. Witch hazel removes excess oil. The astringent properties of witch hazel make it a common treatment for oily skin because it removes excess oil.
2. 2. Witch hazel reduces inflammation. Witch hazel contains several antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, including gallic acid and tannins. When applied topically to the skin, witch hazel can reduce redness, soothe the skin, and treat sunburns.
3. 3. Witch hazel soothes irritation and itchiness. Witch hazel can relieve itchiness, including minor skin irritations from insect bites, eczema, psoriasis, diaper rash, and hemorrhoids. You can also use witch hazel to treat scalp itchiness and irritation.
4. 4. Witch hazel dries out blemishes. Witch hazel can be a breakout and acne treatment. Due to its astringent properties, it dries out blemishes and removes excess oil.

Consider the following tips before adding witch hazel to your topical skincare routine:

1. 1. Consult your dermatologist. Witch hazel can cause side effects such as irritation and dryness, especially if you have sensitive skin. Consult your dermatologist if you have questions about whether you can use witch hazel.
2. 2. Apply witch hazel several times a day. You can apply witch hazel extract to problem areas on your skin multiple times a day. Soak a cotton ball or cotton pad with witch hazel and apply it to the skin.
3. 3. Use a moisturizer. If using witch hazel to treat oily skin or acne-prone skin, use a moisturizer after you apply the witch hazel to restore moisture into the skin.

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