Are you looking to enhance your skincare routine? Curious about the benefits of witch hazel water for your skin? Discover the research behind its effectiveness, how it can help tone your skin and become an invaluable part of your daily skincare routine.
Witch hazel is a centuries-old natural plant extract that has built a reputation as a safe, natural remedy with benefits for various skin conditions.
What is witch hazel water?
Witch hazel water is a natural remedy used for centuries to soothe skin, scalp, and calm the effects of inflammatory health conditions. It is most commonly used for skin conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis.
Research suggests witch hazel may also have protective effects on the skin.
Emanating from a plant, witch hazel water, or
Hamamelis water as it is sometimes called, is distilled witch hazel extract. Witch hazel water is a liquid distilled from dried leaves, bark, and partially dormant twigs belonging to witch hazel.
Witch hazel water is often known in the skincare sector for its ability to soothe sensitive skin, reduce inflammation and clear pores, preventing acne-causing bacteria from infecting the skin.
Research suggests that the compounds contained in witch hazel, such as tannins and gallic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help manage the effects of skin-related concerns such as acne.
“Witch hazel has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory preparation for soothing redness and irritation caused by blackheads and acne sores,” says Sarah Butler, Founder of Skinfood Naturally.
Where does witch hazel come from?
Witch hazel comes from a plant, a shrub or small tree with yellow flowers, native to North America. It has been used for centuries due to its numerous benefits for the skin. It’s derived from the leaves and bark of the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana. Although there are other species too, this is the most commonly used in skincare.
The bark, leaves, and twigs are used to make skincare formulations with astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The extracts from this shrub contain various compounds, including tannins, gallic acid, flavonoids, and essential oils. These compounds are thought to be responsible for these properties in witch hazel water.
These specific compounds in witch hazel interact with the skin to provide various benefits. It helps reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Witch hazel water can also soothe the skin, clear pores, and prevent acne-causing bacteria from infecting the skin.
Interesting ingredient insight
“Witch hazel can take up to two years to start sprouting and can grow up to 15 feet tall,” says Sarah. “Witch hazels bloom in late autumn or winter and are pollinated by shivering moths,” Sarah shares.
How is witch hazel water good for the skin?
Witch hazel water is a natural remedy with numerous skin benefits. The popular skincare ingredient is good for your skin, offering protection against damage and infection.
Witch hazel water is mildly astringent and helps to gently balance the overproduction of sebum (oil). It also helps to tone skin and contains tannins and gallic acid, which have anti-inflammatory properties and help to reduce redness, irritation and swelling caused by inflammatory skin conditions like acne and eczema.
Antioxidants in witch hazel help to protect the skin against damaging free radicals and prevent further inflammation and cellular damage.
Sharing how she first discovered the properties of witch hazel, Sarah says: “I first used it as an oil-based balm in a tube as a ten-year-old to help with blackheads on my oily t-zone.”
Using Witch Hazel in Your Skincare Routine
Use witch hazel on the affected area several times daily for best results. Ointments and extracts are typically applied topically several times daily for various skin conditions. Look for products containing witch hazel extract or cream to reap the most skin benefits from witch hazel.
Witch hazel is a natural and versatile solution that offers numerous benefits for your skin and is a valuable addition to your skincare routine. Here are some of the skin benefits of witch hazel water:
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Witch hazel can help reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
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It can soothe the skin, reduce redness, and provide relief for sensitive skin.
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The ingredient can also clear pores and prevent acne-causing bacteria from infecting the skin.
Skinfood Naturally features witch hazel water in its
toner to help complete the cleansing process by removing the last traces of impurity a cleanser leaves. With its
trial kit, consumers can sample the benefits of Skinfood Naturally’s purifying witch hazel toner.
Is witch hazel particularly good for specific skin types?
Witch hazel can be particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin. Witch hazel water is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, effectively combatting acne, eczema, and psoriasis and soothing and relieving irritations.
The ingredient acts as an astringent, which can help clear pores of debris and remove excess oil from the skin, making it less prone to clogging and breakouts. Additionally, witch hazel has antimicrobial properties that can help kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface and provide relief for sensitive skin types.
While witch hazel can benefit acne-prone skin, it may not be a standalone solution for severe or persistent acne. It’s best used in a comprehensive skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturising. If you have severe acne, it’s recommended to consult your dermatologist or a cosmetic scientist like Skinfood Naturally’s founder, Sarah, for personalised treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I apply witch hazel to my skin?
It is generally safe to apply witch hazel topically several times a day. However, always consult your dermatologist or a cosmetic scientist like Skinfood Naturally’s founder, Sarah, for the optimal frequency for your particular skincare needs and conditions.
Is witch hazel safe to use for an extended period of time?
Yes, witch hazel is generally safe for a long time, but some people may experience minor skin irritation when applied topically. Consult your dermatologist or a cosmetic scientist like Skinfood Naturally’s founder, Sarah, if you have any concerns.
Are there any known interactions between witch hazel and other medications?
As there may be interactions, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using witch hazel with other medications. They can advise on potential risks and the best course of action.
Is witch hazel suitable for all skin types?
Witch hazel is generally suitable for all skin types, although it may cause irritation in some people. It’s best to test a small area first and pay attention to any signs of adverse reaction.
Can witch hazel soothe other skin conditions besides acne, such as eczema or psoriasis?
Yes, witch hazel can soothe other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and soothe and calm the skin.
Can witch hazel be used on sensitive skin?
Yes, witch hazel can be used on sensitive skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and provide relief.
How long does it typically take to see results when using witch hazel for skin concerns?
Typically, it takes a few weeks to see results when using witch hazel for skin concerns. It can reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, clear pores, and prevent acne. However, individual results may vary, so it’s a good idea to check in with your dermatologist or a cosmetic scientist to talk through the results you’re looking for.
