5 Wonders of Witch Hazel for Skin
Best known for easing inflammation and shrinking pores, witch hazel is a key player in the skincare industry. It's one of those skincare products that you've heard of, but know little about. Or perhaps you've heard it can prevent and treat insect bites, but you had no idea you could use it as a daily toner.
Whatever your knowledge of witch hazel, we intend to explore it further in this article.
WHAT IS WITCH HAZEL?
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a plant native to North America and parts of Asia. Most witch hazel products contain witch hazel extract which comes from either the bark or leaves of the plant. Native Americans have been using witch hazel as a natural astringent, essential oil, and antiviral treatment from as far back as we know.
While witch hazel is effective as a skincare treatment, it can also be used to treat a number of health issues thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects. It can ease everything from hemorrhoids to diaper rash, varicose veins to colds and allergies.
Of course, there are a number of medicinal plants offering their own share of beauty and health benefits. Witch hazel is one of the most popular for a reason.
BENEFITS OF WITCH HAZEL FOR SKIN
Reduces Pores
Genetics, age, sun damage, and clogged pores can all lead to large, open pores.
Witch hazel contains constricting compounds that connect the proteins inside skin cells. As a result, using a witch hazel toner can temporarily make the pores appear smaller and tighter.
Clears Acne
Witch hazel is a natural cleanser that's capable of reducing the bacteria growth on the skin responsible for causing blemishes. Thanks to witch hazel's anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties, it can heal skin infections, scabs, and help stop excess oil production that results in the development of blackheads or whiteheads.
In addition to being an astringent that eliminates oil and redness, witch hazel offers the antimicrobial effects of tannins which reduce bacteria growth on the skin. What's more this medicine cabinet essential can also reduce the skin irritation that accompanies breakouts and acne.
You can use witch hazel as a daily facial cleanser to keep your skin looking clear and acne-free.
Promotes Firmer Skin
Packed with polyphenols, witch hazel can help fight premature aging caused by sun exposure.
“Theoretically, witch hazel may have antioxidant effects that help mitigate and prevent free radical damage to skin from UV and oxidizing air pollution,” says board-certified dermatologist Tsippora Shainhouse, MD.
Witch hazel can also inhibit the proliferation of melanoma cells and help protect the skin from aging, due to its tannin antioxidants. This not only keeps the skin looking youthful, but cancer-free.
What's more, this toning astringent can also protect collagen and skin elasticity thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Eases Oily Skin
External use of the tannins-rich witch hazel also acts as a natural astringent that can help to soak up excess oil on the skin. This is why it’s such a popular ingredient in mattifying products.
Used as a daily toner, people will oily skin can benefit remarkably from witch hazel. You only need to wipe it over your face on a cotton ball 1-2 times per day and you will see a noticeable improvement in your complexion.
Calm Sunburn
Witch hazel can treat minor skin irritations, insect bites, breakouts and even sunburn. This is down to its natural tannins and anti-inflammatory properties that can temporarily ease red and irritated skin.
While aloe vera may be a popular choice of treating sunburn, witch hazel can be just as effective. You will also find it in moisturizers and lotions that you can apply directly to your skin.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY WITCH HAZEL
Here are some small, yet significant things you should know before buying witch hazel online.
- Opt for alcohol-free: dermatologists recommend choosing an alcohol-free witch hazel product to prevent it from drying out your skin. This is especially important if you already have dry skin and plan on making it a part of your skincare regimen. Alcohol is a known skin irritatant.
- Avoid if you have Rosacea: it may make your skin condition's symptoms worse.
- Look for moisturizing ingredients: if you plan on purchasing a witch hazel product, look for those that contain hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera or hyaluronic acid. Because witch hazel is already an astringent, this will prevent excessive dryness.
- Go unscented: added scents can lead to skin irritation. If you already have sensitive skin, you should avoid scented witch hazel products at all costs.
Overall, witch hazel (hamamelis virginiana) is a natural skin care product that can be used as a topical remedy for a range of skincare complaints. It can treat problems like acne, oiliness, aging, inflammation, redness, and insect bites. Thanks to its antioxidant and antibacterial compounds, including tannins, phenols, and proanthocyanidins, it can also erase bacteria from the inside and out.
SUPER MATCHA FACIAL CLEANSER
Cleanse, nourish, and rejuvenate your skin with Truly's Super Matcha Facial Cleanser.
It's vegan, cruelty-free, and totally clean!
Boosted with vitamin C and B12, this cleanser removes the grime that accumulates throughout the day, without stripping your skin of its natural (and awesome!) oils.
It's also formulated with a soothing antioxidant-packed blend of matcha green tea, witch hazel, and willow bark extract to ease inflammation and clarify your complexion.
Just like witch hazel soothes skin, matcha also reduces agitation and promotes an even skin tone. It even provides UV protection. Thanks to all of its antioxidants, Super Matcha Facial Cleanser can combat signs of aging caused by free radicals.
As for vitamin B12, this aids cell turnover and collagen maintenance to keep your skin looking mega youthful, whatever your age.
HOW TO USE
Use this facial cleanser twice daily in the morning and evening. Before applying, make sure the face is damp. Then put two pumps into wet hands and massage into the face and neck for 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. For best results, use regularly.
Buy Truly's Witch Hazel-infused Super Matcha Facial Cleanser for just $26.
