Is Witch Hazel Safe For Skin? Benefits And Safety

Is witch hazel safe for skin? Whether you are just surfing the internet or walking down the drugstore, you must have come across the popular Dr Thayer’s Alcohol-free Witch Hazel Facial Toner. If you have not, then read on. You are in for an exciting read about witch hazel.

There is a lot of speculation about the safety of witch hazel for the skin. Some suggest not to use it for skin, like the popular Paula’s Choice article. Others suggest it’s very good and has lots of skin benefits if used in moderation.

Witch hazel is a popular skincare ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Extracted from the leaves and bark of the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana, witch hazel has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various skin conditions. But is witch hazel safe for your skin?

In this post, you will know the benefits, uses, and precautions you should take when incorporating witch hazel into your skincare routine.

Now let’s get to what Witch Hazel really is.

What Is Witch Hazel?

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana L) is native to North America. When it was discovered back then, it was used to treat almost everything from insect bites, healing wounds, painful tumours and ulcers.

The plant’s leaves, bark, and twigs are distilled to produce witch hazel extract, which is commonly found in over-the-counter skincare products like toners, astringents, and ointments. The extract contains tannins, flavonoids, and volatile oils that contribute to its soothing and healing effects on the skin.

Benefits Of Witch Hazel

1. Reduces Inflammation

Witch hazel is naturally a soothing ingredient when used in low concentrations. Due to the presence of tannins, it is effective in remedying skin irritation like those seen in diaper rash, eczema or blotchy skin. This is why many lotions or ointments include witch hazel as the key ingredient.

Witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory effects can soothe the skin and reduce the discomfort of sunburn. It also helps in healing damaged skin tissues.

If you are treating skin irritation, it is best to dab witch hazel extract on a clean cotton pad and pat gently on the skin. If you are using a cream, apply the cream to your hand and apply it gently.

2. Tightens Pores

Since witch hazel is an astringent, it temporarily causes your skin to contract to give you that tight feeling. This eventually makes your pores appear smaller temporarily.

When using witch hazel to tighten pores, the first step is to cleanse your face first, then apply the witch hazel toner.

3. It Is An Antioxidant

The presence of tannins and polyphenols is responsible for its strong antioxidant effect. This eventually helps mitigate UV stressors and free radicals. Its effects on oxidation thereby reduce the signs of premature aging.

4. Reduce Excess Oil and Fight acne

Because witch hazel is a natural astringent, it can get into your pores and sop up the oil deeply reducing the chance of acne. In addition, the presence of tannins in witch hazel helps reduce the chance of bacteria growth on the skin.

To get the best out of witch hazel for acne, apply witch hazel after washing your skin by using a cotton pad to apply on your face.

Witch hazel can be very drying so it’s best to apply moisturizers afterwards.

5. Helps With Razor Bumps

Razor bumps are associated with skin irritation after shaving. This happens when there is too much friction between your skin and the razor, leaving behind ingrown hair and painful bumps.

Thanks to the tannins in witch hazel, it helps soothe inflammation and minimize the risk of developing razor bumps. Always apply witch hazel to your skin immediately after shaving to calm any irritation. It helps in reducing the risk of infection and promotes faster healing.

How to Use Witch Hazel in Your Skincare Routine

As a Toner

• Witch hazel can be used as a toner to cleanse the skin and tighten pores. Apply it after cleansing your face and before moisturizing. Look for alcohol-free witch hazels to avoid drying out your skin.

Spot Treatment for Acne

• Apply witch hazel directly to acne-prone areas using a cotton swab. Its astringent properties will help dry out pimples and reduce inflammation.

Post-Shave Soother

• Dab witch hazel on freshly shaved skin to prevent razor burn and soothe any irritation. It’s particularly effective for sensitive areas like the bikini line.

Witch Hazel Safety Considerations

This is the real question that we have all been pondering. Although witch hazel has so many benefits, its safety is questioned.

Drying Effects

• Witch hazel contains tannins, which can be drying to the skin. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for alcohol-free formulations and use it sparingly. If you have conditions like rosacea or eczema and you notice dryness and irritation, you should stop immediately as it can damage your skin barrier

Potential Irritation

• Although rare, some people may experience irritation or an allergic reaction to witch hazel. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to larger areas. To test if witch hazel is right for you, apply a tiny pinch on your arm. Leave for hours and see if your skin reacts before applying it to your face.

Avoid Overuse

• Using witch hazel too frequently can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Use it as needed, but don’t overdo it.

Consult with a Dermatologist

• If you have any underlying skin conditions or concerns, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist before incorporating witch hazel into your routine.

Best Witch Hazel In Skincare

Conclusion

Witch hazel is a versatile and beneficial skincare ingredient that can address a variety of skin concerns, from acne to sunburn. However, like any skincare product, it’s important to use it correctly and be mindful of its effects on your skin. By understanding its benefits, uses, and precautions, you can safely incorporate witch hazel into your skincare routine for healthier, clearer skin.