Here’s everything you need to know about the potential skin benefits of witch hazel. Some research suggests that applying witch hazel topically to sensitive skin may be beneficial in the treatment of inflamed, irritated or broken skin. Witch hazel is primarily an astringent, explains Greg Tilford, a Phoenix-based holistic veterinary educator. When applied topically, one of the many witch hazel uses is skin care since it is very soothing on the skin. Other ways you can use witch hazel to your advantage is to prevent razor burn or ingrown hairs, soothe redness and stinging from sunburns, and minimize the … We include products we think are useful for our readers. Witch hazel topical (for the skin) has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating hemorrhoids, minor bleeding, and skin irritation. Witch hazel may help with acne, varicose veins, dandruff, and stretch marks. Scalp sensitivity can be caused by a number of factors, ranging from cosmetic hair treatments to dermatological conditions, such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. It acts as an astringent, causing your tissues to contract to help shrink pores, while also soothing your skin and relieving inflammation (5). All rights reserved. The compound tannins in witch hazel can help to reduce the irritation and pain caused by bug bites. Sensitive skin is a very common condition that affects around 30% of the population. To a glass, add ½ cup of witch hazel hydrosol that has been heated till hot. Witch hazel is a popular home remedy. Witch hazel acts as an astringent to help shrink your pores, soothe your skin and reduce inflammation. The most convenient way to add witch hazel to your skin care routine is to use it as a toner: Wash and rinse your face with a gentle cleanser, then add a few drops of witch hazel to a cotton ball and apply it to your face, says Dr. Jaliman. It may also help reduce acne, since it can cleanse your skin of excess oil. Although witch hazel is widely recognized as a well-rounded ingredient, be cautious when it comes to using a pure concentration of it on your face, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Witch hazel is an extract from the leaves and bark of the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana. "Witch hazel is an astringent with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties so it can effectively be used as a cleanser," explains Engelman. The astringent quality helps to cleanse my skin and get rid of excess oils, but itâs really gentle and it doesnât dry it out either. But although test-tube studies have found promising results, human studies are still lacking. You can order your witch hazel from Amazon or Ebay. Everything You Need to Know About Vetiver Essential Oil, Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. Shrink your pores, absorb oil, and fight the signs of aging with the all-natural toner. However, research has shown that witch hazel topical may not be effective in treating this condition. It’s also been used to treat chronic…. Krissy is a regular contributor to Prevention, and she also writes for Cosmopolitan, Weight Watchers, Women's Health, FitnessMagazine.com, Self.com, and Shape.com. Witch hazel topical has also been used to treat eczema. This article tells you all you need to know about shepherd's…, Licorice root is an ancient herbal remedy that's commonly found in teas, supplements, and candies — but you may have heard that too much can have an…, You may be used to thinking of the plantain in your garden as a persnickety weed, but you may not know that this plant has several uses as a food and…, Osha root has numerous traditional uses for respiratory ailments, but you may wonder whether any of them are backed by scientific evidence. But is witch hazel worth the hype—and more importantly, should you create a spot for it in your medicine cabinet? (There’s no need to rinse it.) It also contains aloe vera to calm and hydrate the skin, balancing out the drying nature of witch hazel. Here’s what you need to know about its benefits and how to use it safely. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, witch hazel may reduce puffiness and soothe the under-eye area, says Dr. Longwill, while also providing a tightening effect. Additionally, while taking 3–4 teaspoons (15–20 ml) of witch hazel per day is generally considered safe, ingesting large amounts may cause stomach irritation and vomiting (18). This article reviews whether kalonji may aid weight loss, as well as…, Shepherd’s purse is a traditional herbal remedy that’s often used to reduce bleeding. Applying a bit of witch hazel to your scalp before washing your hair may help treat scalp sensitivity and provide relief from symptoms, such as itching and tenderness. Hereâs What Sugar Really Does to Your Brain, 25 Coconut Oil Benefits for Your Hair and Skin, Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner with Aloe Vera, Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. By acting as an astringent, witch hazel helps to constrict skin tissue. As it turns out, witch hazel has a whole ton of handy uses! © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. In addition, taking witch hazel orally may cause stomach irritation due to its high tannin content, so it’s important to proceed with caution and consult your doctor if you have any concerns. What Are Steel Cut Oats, and Do They Have Benefits? Many dermatologists back the use of witch hazel for scalp and skin … It contains witch hazel to tone and tighten your pores, chamomile to soothe, and allantoin to help soften. Or, if you decide on a product that includes witch hazel instead of using it straight-up, apply the product as directed on the label. Witch hazel is a natural ingredients that can reduce oil, bacteria, and irritation, making it ideal for oily, acne-prone skin. It temporarily makes your pores appear smaller. It temporarily makes your pores appear smaller. Witch hazel is an astringent that is often used as a natural topical remedy. Witch hazel extract-based toners are mainly known for their skin tightening, lightening, soothing, and moisturizing effects. Using a cotton pad, apply the witch hazel to clean skin to remove any leftover oil and dirt and tighten the pores. Witch hazel, a botanical extract, is a natural skin healer and cleanser. Witch Hazel Uses for Skin Rashes and Irritations Witch hazel provides nearly instant relief from skin irritation caused by poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. The leaves and bark are made into teas and ointments. Witch hazel is primarily used topically, however, to reduce skin inflammations, promote wound healing and enhance overall skin health. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. It reduces minor inflammation and reduces swelling and redness. If you’re not sure, test the product on a small, concentrated area of skin first—say, on your arm—to see if a reaction occurs before using it on your face. One test-tube study, for example, found that the tannins in witch hazel exhibited antiviral effects against both influenza A and human papillomavirus (HPV) (15). According to Drugs.com, there are more than 30 traditional uses for witch hazel including hemorrhoids, burns, cancers, tuberculosis, colds and fever. Witch hazel is a widely known plant with a lengthy history of use in the Americas. Choose an alcohol-free witch hazel toner to avoid drying out your skin. Here's how to use it to clear up your breakouts fast. Witch hazel is an astringent. However, chronic inflammation is thought to play a central role in the development of certain diseases (1). Best known for shrinking pores and easing inflammation, witch hazel is already a key player in a variety of beauty products. What Are Licorice Root's Benefits and Downsides? Witch Hazel Skin Benefits for Sensitive Skin. The polyphenols witch hazel contains may help fight premature aging: “Theoretically, witch... Tightens pores. Ointments and extracts can be applied directly to your skin several times per day and safely administered for the treatment of hemorrhoids after each bowel movement. The benefits of witch hazel for your skin Wards off signs of aging. In fact,witch hazel is as popular for skin care as it is cheap. This is why it’s such a popular ingredient in toners and mattifying products. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. I think everyone should have some witch hazel for their medicine cabinet or beauty bag. More studies are needed to look at the effects of witch hazel and its potential impact on viral infections in healthy adults. Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, some research suggests that witch hazel could be useful in the treatment of acne. Yes, I always think the cashier is going to think Iâm a witch..lol. Due to its potent anti-inflammatory However, the old formula of these toners was loaded with a high amount of ethanol alcohol. It contains several compounds with potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may be useful in treating a variety of conditions ranging from acne and scalp sensitivity to hemorrhoids. Animal and test-tube studies have found that witch hazel and its components could prevent skin cancer growth and protect against skin damage. If a reaction occurs, discontinue use and check in with your dermatologist. However, research has shown that witch hazel topical may not ⦠You can also use a cleanser formulated with witch hazel, like Meow Meow Tweet's Face Cleanser ($25). It regularly received negative remarks for causing skin dry-out, irritation, and inflammation. Why trust us? Witch hazel can even be used as a moisturizer for excessively oily or sensitive skin. Learn how witch hazel can both help and hurt skin, and what to use instead at paulaschoice.com. Check it out! It helps soothe your skin, which promotes faster healing. It uses a base of rose water, which helps to balance the skin’s pH, while the aloe cools and soothes any irritation, says Dr. Jaliman. Proponents claim that witch hazel can heal a wide range of skin troubles , such as acne, bruises, burns, hemorrhoids, inflammation, insect bites, itching, pain, and varicose veins. Local Americans have since quite a while ago perceived the therapeutic properties of witch hazel and utilized a decoction of the bubbled plant parts to treat skin aggravations and tumors. Extracts of witch hazel are taken orally for the herbal treatment of diarrhea and mucous colitis, as well as to stop the vomiting of blood, according to âNursing Herbal Remedies Handbook.â Witch hazel is primarily used topically, however, to reduce skin inflammations, promote wound healing and enhance overall skin ⦠Witch hazel may help reduce skin redness and provide relief for irritated and sensitive skin. Topically applying the witch hazel to the sensitive skin is beneficial in the treatment of the broken, inflamed and irritated skin. Witch hazel provides nearly instant relief from skin irritation caused by poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. Itâs also good in refreshing and rejuvenating healthy skin. Test-tube studies show that witch hazel may have antiviral properties and could be useful against certain types of viral infections. Some studies indicate that witch hazel may be beneficial in fighting certain types of viral infections. Itâs anti-inflammatory, soothing, and wound healing properties noticeably reduce the irritation and healing time of rashes, bug bites, and other skin irritations. The result? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Know more about the witch hazel benefits for skin care in this article. Here’s our process. Witch hazel may help reduce scalp irritation and inflammation. What Is Plantain Weed, and How Do You Use It? Reduces inflammation. Therefore, it’s best to only use small amounts orally and to discuss any side effects or concerns with your doctor. The first successful mass-produced American skincare product, debuted in 1846, was “Golden Treasure,” later renamed Pond’s Cold Cream. I used to use Clinique's skin toner and loved it for many years. This serum is formulated with retinol to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and uses witch hazel and salicylic acid to draw out impurities and minimize the look of pores sans irritation, says Dr. Schlessinger. Witch hazel is extremely antioxidant-rich with tannins, which act as a natural astringent on the skin that can help to sop up excess oil, says Dr. Schlessinger. Here are the top 8 benefits and uses of witch hazel. Thayers’ Witch Hazel contains no synthetic ingredients or alcohol to dry out skin. Most often applied to the skin and scalp, witch hazel is widely known for its ability to ease inflammation and soothe sensitive skin. In addition, some people use witch hazel as a toner (a type of skin-care product said to cleanse the skin and tighten pores). It can also be added to herbal teas and ingested orally in small amounts as a natural treatment for other conditions. What Is Osha Root, and Does It Have Benefits? Do a patch test: To avoid an adverse reaction, read the label to make sure it doesn’t contain any ingredients that you’re sensitive or straight-up allergic to, says Dr. Schlessinger. But because it’s pretty easy on the wallet and, in general, doesn’t cause adverse effects (unless you’re allergic or have a pre-existing skin condition, such as rosacea), it might be worth giving it a whirl—particularly, if your skin’s on the oilier side. For More Ideas on How to Use Witch Hazel Hydrosol, Read: 25 Ways to Use Hydrosols Where to Buy Witch Hazel Hydrosol . Besides witch hazel being an astringent that decreases oil and redness, the antimicrobial properties of tannins can reduce bacteria growth on the skin, says NYC-based board-certified dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD, author of Skin Rules. Witch hazel is an astringent that will draw out the itch-inducing oils from the poison ivy and dry out the rash. In fact, witch hazel has been shown to suppress erythema — a reddening of the skin caused by injury or irritation — by up to 27% (7). Use witch hazel as a toner: After cleansing with a gentle face wash, pat your skin dry and gently apply witch hazel using a cotton swab. It has a long history in various folk medicinal treatments. Dab witch hazel onto a cotton round and cleanse skin once or twice daily. Witch hazel is touted as a natural solution for all kinds of skin concerns, from acne to puffy eyes, oily skin, and more. Reduces Skin Irritation. Witch hazel is a top natural remedy for skin care in this part of the world. I used to use Clinique's skin toner and loved it for many years. Bryonia is a plant-based homeopathic remedy that’s been used to relieve constipation and stomach upset. High-quality studies are needed to ascertain the potential benefits of witch hazel on sore throats. It’s also sometimes used as a natural remedy to relieve symptoms of other scalp problems, such as dandruff and dryness. One study in 40 people found that using a lotion with as little as 10% witch hazel extract was effective in reducing skin inflammation and treating erythema (4). Witch hazel is a natural remedy made from the bark and leaves of a plant called Hamamelis virginiana. Most people can use witch hazel safely with minimal risk of adverse side effects (17). Witch hazel is an extract from the leaves and bark of the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana. Witch hazel preparations are commonly used for skin conditions, including diaper rash; however, clinical studies supporting these uses are generally lacking. Long used in traditional medicine, witch hazel is usually applied topically in order to treat certain skin conditions. This…, Steel cut oats are a less popular form of oats that takes a while to cook, but they have several health benefits and a unique flavor and texture. Similarly, another animal study discovered that the tannins in witch hazel were able to slow skin tumor growth in mice exposed to radiation (14). There are many species of witch hazel, but Hamamelis virginiana — a type of shrub native to North America — is most commonly used in folk medicine in the US. This is why it is used as the primary active ingredient in many hemorrhoid preparations as well as face and skin wrinkle removers.” Many dermatologists back the use of witch hazel for scalp and skin irritations. âWitch hazel is an astringent that can strip oil from the skin,â Dr. Zeichner warns. These help reduce the skinâs inflammation after a sunburn. It’s anti-inflammatory, soothing, and wound healing properties noticeably reduce the irritation and healing time of rashes, bug bites, and other skin irritations. Another test-tube study showed that witch hazel extract inhibited the activity of herpes simplex virus 1, which is often the culprit behind cold sores (16). Similarly, another small study found that a topical preparation containing witch hazel was able to provide relief for sensitive or irritated facial skin (8). 26 Uses For Witch Hazel 1. Research studies on Witch Hazel and its effectiveness on Eczema showed that Witch hazel has antioxidant polyphenols. Still, studies on the effects of witch hazel on acne are limited and further research is needed to determine its efficacy. Witch hazel topical has also been used to treat eczema. Yet, even though the anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel are well documented, its use for treating sore throats is based solely on anecdotal evidence. The natural tannins that witch hazel contains may temporarily calm the appearance of red, irritated, or blotchy skin, says Dr. Shainhouse, making it a handy product to have around when breakouts, insect bites, or a pesky sunburn are cramping your style. Witch hazel is a flowering plant (Hamamelis spp.) Prevention participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More studies are needed to evaluate its effectiveness. Witch hazel⦠Because of its ability to decrease inflammation and act as an astringent, witch hazel is sometimes used to treat sore throats. Donât think that witch hazel can only treat existing skin conditions only. I love witch hazel! Witch hazel has many benefits for skin, including relieving inflammation, tightening pores, and helping with razor bumps. 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