what are the benefits of witch hazel for skin

How does Witch Hazel help improve your skin?

• Witch hazel can help remove excess sebum from your skin. It helps keep the skin balanced, deeply cleansing dirt, grime, grease and debris from your pores. • Witch hazel is a powerful astringent, due to the tannins in its composition. They can aid reduce swelling, repair broken skin and fight bacteria.

How to use witch hazel wisely on skin?

• Simply soaking a cotton ball in witch hazel extract and rubbing it on your face on a regular basis makes your skin clean. It also tightens the skin and prevents wrinkles . In case you have normal to dry skin, you may add a few drops of olive oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil in it.

Why is witch hazel good for your skin?

“Witch hazel is an astringent that can strip oil from the skin,” Dr. Zeichner says. This makes it especially great for those with oily, acne-prone or combination skin. If you swipe on a witch hazel toner, you can spot-treat oily areas, such as the T-zone. Witch hazel is also great for relieving inflammation and can be used after shaving or waxing to minimize razor bumps.

Which Thayers witch hazel is best for your skin?

• Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner has taken the internet by storm — racking up more than 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, with many users calling it their "Holy Grail" ...
• Why do people like it? ...
• I tried the cult-favorite toner and can see why people love it so much — it's gentle and doesn't leave my skin feeling tight or stripped.

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What does witch hazel do to your face?

Witch hazel has many benefits for skin, including relieving inflammation, tightening pores, and helping with razor bumps. It may also help reduce acne, since it can cleanse your skin of excess oil. However, witch hazel should not be used by people with dry or extremely sensitive skin since it can cause irritation.

Can you use witch hazel on your face everyday?

Witch hazel is safe to use on your face daily, however, it also depends on how your skin reacts to it. If your skin feels dry and stretchy, use it every alternate day, those with oily skin can use it every day.

Why you shouldn't use witch hazel?

Aside from the key substance (tannins), many witch hazel products contain alcohol ingredients (like ethanol) that over-dry the skin and sometimes do more harm than good. Some variations can have up to 15 percent alcohol, which might be irritating to certain skin types like people with dry, acne-prone or sensitive skin.

What are the benefits of using witch hazel on your skin?

Here are the top 8 benefits and uses of witch hazel.Relieves Inflammation. ... Reduces Skin Irritation. ... Helps Treat Hemorrhoids. ... Fights Acne. ... Alleviates Scalp Sensitivity. ... Soothes Sore Throat. ... Protects Against Skin Damage. ... Wards off Infection.

Can witch hazel fade dark spots?

The high concentration of tannins in the product makes it a great natural astringent, removing excess oil and shrinking pores. From bruises to pigmentation to redness, witch hazel works from the inside out to heal underlying damage and broken skin, and fade dark spots.

Is witch hazel good for aging skin?

Witch hazel contains polyphenol, which acts as a protector from UV damage. It also helps retain the skin's natural collagen, making it great for elasticity and anti-aging.

Does witch hazel brighten skin?

Shari Sperling says witch hazel can actually help with a number of skin ailments. Among the long list of benefits? Relieving inflammation and redness, calming eczema, acne and psoriasis, assisting in shrinking pores, and even reducing puffiness and brightening skin.

Can I use witch hazel on my private parts?

Hammamelis virginiana, commonly known as witch hazel, is a plant native to North America and is a safe and inexpensive choice for proper perineal care.

How long does it take for witch hazel to work on face?

Wait 5 to 10 minutes to see if your skin reacts. Witch hazel usually works best for oily skin because witch hazel is an astringent. If your skin reacts, you may notice red, irritated skin or a rash develop.

Does witch hazel clean your face?

One of the best uses for witch hazel is as a natural facial cleanser, especially when it comes to controlling excess oil. "Witch hazel is an astringent with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties so it can effectively be used as a cleanser," explains Engelman.

What does witch hazel do for hair?

Many people have reported that witch hazel has helped with their hair loss. That's because it works to increase blood circulation in the scalp, delivering vital nutrients to the hair follicles, which can stimulate healthy growth. It also reduces inflammation (see above), another major cause of hair loss.

Does witch hazel unclog pores?

Witch hazel is best for people with oily, acne-prone skin. Its astringent and pore-tightening properties help fight the inflammation and overproduction of oil associated with acne. It can also help clear clogged pores – a primary cause of acne breakouts.

What are the benefits of witch hazel?

Here are the top 8 benefits and uses of witch hazel. 1. Relieves Inflammation. Inflammation is a normal immune response designed to protect your body against injury and infection. However, chronic inflammation is thought to play a central role in the development of certain diseases ( 1. Trusted Source.

What is witch hazel used for?

Most often applied to the skin and scalp, witch hazel is widely known for its ability to ease inflammation and soothe sensitive skin. It can also be added to herbal teas and ingested orally in small amounts as a natural treatment for other conditions.

How to treat sore throat with witch hazel?

Because of its ability to decrease inflammation and act as an astringent, witch hazel is sometimes used to treat sore throats. Boiling one teaspoon (5 ml) of witch hazel in one cup (240 ml) of water for about 10 minutes, then gargling with the mixture, may provide relief.

Does witch hazel help with skin cancer?

Animal and test-tube studies have found that witch hazel and its components could prevent skin cancer growth and protect against skin damage. 8. Wards off Infection. Some studies indicate that witch hazel may be beneficial in fighting certain types of viral infections.

Does witch hazel slow tumor growth?

Similarly, another animal study discovered that the tannins in witch hazel were able to slow skin tumor growth in mice exposed to radiation ( 14. Trusted Source. ). However, most research is currently limited to test-tube and animal studies. More studies are needed to evaluate the effects of witch hazel on humans.

Does witch hazel help with sensitive skin?

Trusted Source. ). Some research suggests that applying witch hazel topically to sensitive skin may be beneficial in the treatment of inflamed, irritated or broken skin.

Does witch hazel help with inflammation?

Trusted Source. ). Witch hazel contains many compounds with potent anti-inflammatory properties, including gallic acid and tannins. It also contains antioxidants that help prevent widespread inflammation and neutralize free radicals, which are disease-causing compounds that can build up in your body ( 2.

What is witch hazel?

Seriously, if you’re not stocking this in your bathroom, you're truly missing out. Witch hazel, a botanical extract, is a natural skin healer and cleanser. “The twigs and bark of the plant contain therapeutic constituents that, when extracted and distilled, create the clear, fragrant, natural astringent that has been known ...

How to treat poison ivy rash?

Along with cool compresses and hydrocortisone cream, applying a little witch hazel can help reduce itching and swelling . (But if your poison ivy rash doesn't improve after a week or has blisters, see a doctor for treatment.)

How to get rid of bumps after shaving?

After shaving, swipe a witch hazel-soaked cotton ball over freshly shaved skin to keep skin calm and bump-free.

Does witch hazel help with oily skin?

If you're feeling greasier than a pizza man, witch hazel can help dry things out, says Engelman. It helps remove excess oil—making it a great option for oilier skin types. (Just be sure to moisturize after using to make sure you don't overcorrect and dry out your skin completely.)

Is witch hazel good for sensitive skin?

And, if you've got super sensitive skin, witch hazel might be a formula that's a little bit irritating for your skin type. "It has the potential of causing allergic contact dermatitis because witch hazel is plant-derived," Dr. Vega Gonzalez explains. "It has tannins and eugenol, which are agents that can often cause reactions in people who are ...

Can you use witch hazel on your skin?

It's super easy to apply to your skin. Let's face it: A lot of beauty products out there can be tricky or confusing to apply. That's not the case with witch hazel. "I typically like to use an organic cotton pad to apply witch hazel to the skin, but you can also spray it on your skin and let it air dry," Roff explains.

Can you mix witch hazel with rose water?

You've got to pick a formula with a witch hazel combo that actually suits your skin type if you want the best results. And, for those of you with sensitive skin? It's ideal to choose a witch hazel toner mixed with aloe or rose water, Roff says.

What is witch hazel good for?

Possible benefits of witch hazel. When applied to the skin, witch hazel-based toners have the potential to ease irritation, injury, and inflammation. Some of the most common uses include acne, inflammatory conditions, and sunburn.

How to use witch hazel for burns?

To use witch hazel for skin burns, soak either a soft cloth or a sturdy paper towel with the solution. Then gently press onto the burn. Don’t rub it in, as this can cause further irritation. , witch hazel has been proven helpful for both men and women. Such burns may be related to chemicals or UV-ray exposure.

What is the best OTC acne treatment?

The American Academy of Dermatology still recommends proven OTC acne treatments: benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. (Check out Healthline’s comparison of the two.) It’s also important to know that the majority of research articles that back up the benefits of witch hazel are based on topical uses only.

Is witch hazel safe for skin?

Overall, witch hazel is proven as safe for the skin. The caveat is that witch hazel, like anything else applied to your skin, may not work for everyone. If you’re trying out witch hazel for the first time, it’s a good idea to test it out in a small area of skin away from your face, such as the inside of your arm.

Can witch hazel be used for sunburn?

Traditionally, witch hazel has been used as a treatment method for sunburns. (However, contrary to some information touted online, witch hazel is not a suitable sunscreen.) You can also apply witch hazel to other types of minor skin burns, such as those from chemicals. This may even be a safe method for razor burns ...

Does witch hazel help with under eye bags?

Witch hazel has also been proven safe when applied to the scalp. Witch hazel may also help under-eye bags.

Does witch hazel help with acne?

While certain types of acne (such as cysts and pustules) are inflammatory, witch hazel may possible benefit noninflammatory acne ( blackheads and whiteheads) too. The idea behind witch hazel for acne treatment is that it can act as an astringent by drying out your acne blemishes, much like other OTC treatments.

Amazing Beauty Benefits of Witch Hazel

Note: Do a patch test before using any of the following topical remedies to rule out allergies or adverse skin reactions. If you notice any irritation, it’s best not to try the remedy.

Is It Necessary to Moisturize After Using Witch Hazel?

Witch hazel can dry out your skin by removing the natural oils from your skin, on account of its inherent astringent properties. Thus, it’s highly recommended to use a moisturizer after treating your skin with witch hazel.

Final Word

Witch hazel is a popular ingredient in a number of cosmetic products and as a home remedy, and it is used to treat several skin conditions. If you experience any irritation or signs of an allergic reaction when using witch hazel, stop using it and see your dermatologist.

Where does witch hazel grow?

The witch hazel plant, Latin name Hammamelis virginiana, is a flowering shrub that grows wild throughout a good portion of North America and Asia. The leaves, bark, and twigs are processed to create a clear liquid that’s sold commercially as witch hazel. The plant extract itself is also used in topical ointments, ...

How much alcohol is in witch hazel?

In addition to the tannins, almost all types of witch hazel are distilled using denatured alcohol (ethanol), with the extract containing about 14% to 15% alcohol.

Does witch hazel remove makeup?

There’s also the fact that witch hazel isn’t really that effective at removing most types of makeup, especially today’s long-wearing formulas. This poor performance might lead to you pull and tug at your skin, unlike how a gentle, efficient makeup remover works. All that extra pulling can hasten skin sagging.

Can witch hazel be used as a cleanser?

Should you use witch hazel as a makeup remover or cleanser? No! That’s a really bad idea, as the trace amounts of tannins and the alcohol content are just too sensitizing for skin, to say nothing of using witch hazel to remove eye makeup. Please don’t do this.

Does witch hazel toner work on oily skin?

Witch hazel for oily skin also receives a lot of interest. We understand how tempting a witch hazel toner sounds, as it’s readily available, inexpensive, natural, and seems to be a smart choice for keeping oily skin in check. Witch hazel can remove oil from the skin, but that’s due to the denatured alcohol (ethanol) it contains.

Does witch hazel make acne worse?

In truth, the irritation caused by the witch hazel can make blemishes worse. You may have also read that witch hazel’s astringent action can help control the microbes on skin that play a role in causing acne, but research hasn’t shown that to be true. For certain, witch hazel is not a replacement for benzoyl peroxide, ...

Does witch hazel help with acne?

However, acne isn’t about skin being wet, so drying it with astringent ingredients won’t help. In truth, the irritation caused by the witch hazel can make blemishes worse.

Is witch hazel good for toner?

Absolutely! Witch hazel makes a fantastic toner. In fact, it is one of the best ways to remove dirt, grime, and excess traces of makeup at the end of the day to keep your skin looking clear and beautiful. Plus, it acts as a great base for moisturizers and other serums.

Does witch hazel help with acne?

Yes, witch hazel products help with acne. Using this type of toner can help reduce oil production and help constrict pores, in turn assisting in reducing the number of breakouts you experience. It also helps reduce skin inflammation in the case of existing breakouts. 9.

Is witch hazel alcohol free?

Witch hazel is naturally alcohol free! This is good news for those who have sensitive or dry skin as products that contain high alcohol content can dry out or cause skin irritation. Though some brands do use alcohol during the witch hazel extraction process, Thayers does not and is able to provide alcohol free toners and other witch hazel products. So using a product like Thayers Rose Petal Facial Toner as part of your beauty routine will keep your skin feeling refreshed, clogged pores to a minimum, and can help reduce the number of whiteheads and blackheads on your skin without drying it out.

Can you use witch hazel on your face?

Can You Apply Witch Hazel Directly to Skin? Yes, witch hazel is definitely safe enough to apply directly to your skin. In fact, that’s the only way to use it! Our Thayers Witch Hazel Toner is formulated with certified organic aloe vera and glycerin to help keep your skin moisturized and feeling soft.

Does Thayers Witch Hazel toner work?

Thayers Witch Hazel toners work well for nearly all skin types but are generally recommended for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. 3. What Does Witch Hazel Do to Your Face and Skin? Witch hazel offers numerous benefits for your face and skin.

Is witch hazel effective?

Once a staple in your grandmother’s beauty arsenal, Thayers Witch Hazel products are just as effective now as they were decades ago. Best of all, they come in a variety of different options, including facial mists, towelettes, pads, and more to make it easy to keep your skin looking great. So, what is witch hazel?

Is Thayers Witch Hazel Toner good for dry skin?

This means that it’s gentle and hydrating for dry skin, which gives you the ability to enjoy all the benefits of this type of product without worrying about excess dryness. Now that you know more about the associated benefits, you can see why adding Thayers Witch Hazel Toner to your daily routine can benefit you.

What is the effect of witch hazel on the body?

Plants like witch hazel that are high in polyphenols are the same kind used to create anti-aging nutritional supplements that slow down disease development by protecting cells.

What is witch hazel used for?

Sometimes also called winterbloom, the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant are used to make a skin-healing astringent.

What is the bark of a witch hazel plant?

The bark, twigs and leaves of the plant are used to extract active constituents called polyphenols and tannins. They’re then added to either alcohol or water to make a concentrated product called witch hazel water, Hamamelis water or distilled witch hazel extract. Tannins are responsible for making witch hazel extract a natural astringent, ...

How to stop ingrown hairs after shaving?

After shaving, you can apply witch hazel to any part of the body to slow bleeding from nicks or cuts, prevent bacteria growth and infections within hair follicles, soothe razor burn, and prevent ingrown hairs from forming.

What is the best plant for skin?

When it comes to natural skin care, one time-honored medicinal plant is witch hazel, which American Indians relied on for fighting swelling, sores and infections. There may be no plant more beneficial to your skin, as research showcases the many advantages witch hazel provides.

Where can I buy witch hazel?

Where to Buy Witch Hazel. Look for witch hazel in pharmacies, health food stores, stores that sell beauty products or online. Extract derived from the witch hazel plant can be used topically (on the surface of the skin) or taken internally just like medicine.

Is witch hazel good for acne?

This is the reason why witch hazel is one of the most popular natural acne treatments worldwide and is used in dozens of over-the-counter treatment gels, washes and lotions. Studies also show that tannins from witch hazel can be used to make plant-based antivirals, such as to fight the flu and other illnesses.