As someone who has struggled with acne-prone, sensitive skin for years, I’m always on the lookout for natural ingredients that can help soothe my complexion without causing irritation.
One underrated skincare hero that has made a big difference for me is witch hazel.
This plant extract has been used for centuries to treat various skin ailments, and modern research is starting to back up many of its benefits.
I first discovered witch hazel a few years ago when I was dealing with a particularly bad breakout.
I had tried every acne treatment under the sun, from salicylic acid to benzoyl peroxide, but nothing seemed to calm my inflamed, angry skin.
That’s when I stumbled upon witch hazel in my local drugstore and decided to give it a try. I was amazed at how quickly it helped reduce redness and swelling without drying out or stinging my face.
Since then, witch hazel has become a staple in my skincare routine. Here’s a closer look at what makes this natural astringent so effective and how you can incorporate it into your own regimen for clearer, healthier-looking skin.
What is Witch Hazel?
Witch hazel is a flowering shrub native to North America and parts of Asia. The leaves and bark are distilled to create a clear liquid that contains several beneficial compounds, including tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils.
Tannins are a type of polyphenol that have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. They work by constricting proteins in the skin, which can help tighten pores, reduce oil production, and calm irritation.
Flavonoids are antioxidants that help protect the skin from free radical damage, while essential oils provide antibacterial benefits.
Benefits of Witch Hazel for Skin
Soothes Inflammation and Redness
In addition to fighting acne, witch hazel is also great for calming inflamed, irritated skin.
The anti-inflammatory tannins help reduce redness and swelling associated with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea.
I have found witch hazel to be incredibly soothing after being out in the sun or wind. It instantly takes the sting out of my skin and makes it feel more comfortable.
I also like to use it as a spot treatment on particularly red, angry blemishes to help them heal faster.
Fights Acne and Oily Skin
One of the main reasons people turn to witch hazel is for its ability to combat acne and control excess oil production.
The tannins in witch hazel act as a natural astringent, helping to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
Witch hazel also has antimicrobial properties thanks to its essential oil content. This means it can help kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface, preventing pimples from forming in the first place.
I find that using witch hazel as a toner both morning and night helps keep my skin balanced and breakout-free.
I simply soak a cotton pad with the liquid and swipe it over my face after cleansing. It instantly makes my skin feel refreshed and less greasy without stripping it of moisture.
Tightens Pores and Firms Skin
As we age, our skin loses elasticity and our pores can start to look larger. Witch hazel’s astringent properties help temporarily tighten and constrict pores, making them appear smaller.
It can also have a firming effect on the skin overall, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
I love using witch hazel as a toner before applying my moisturizer and makeup. It creates a smooth, matte base that helps my foundation go on more evenly and last longer throughout the day.
My pores definitely look less noticeable when I use witch hazel regularly.
Balances Skin pH
Another benefit of witch hazel is its ability to help balance the skin’s natural pH level. Our skin has a slightly acidic pH of around 5.5, which helps protect it from harmful bacteria and environmental stressors.
Many cleansers and skincare products can disrupt this delicate balance, leaving skin feeling dry, tight, or irritated. Witch hazel has a similar pH to our skin, so it can help restore equilibrium without causing further imbalance.
I find that using witch hazel as a toner helps my skin feel more balanced and less reactive overall. It doesn’t sting or burn like some harsher toners can, and it seems to help my other skincare products absorb better.
How to Use Witch Hazel in Your Skincare Routine
If you’re interested in trying witch hazel for yourself, there are a few different ways you can incorporate it into your skincare routine:
- As a toner: Soak a cotton pad with witch hazel and swipe it over your face after cleansing, morning and night. Follow up with your usual serum, moisturizer, and SPF.
- As a spot treatment: Dip a cotton swab in witch hazel and apply it directly to pimples or inflamed areas of skin. Let it dry before applying other products.
- In a DIY face mist: Mix equal parts witch hazel and distilled water in a spray bottle. Spritz it over your face throughout the day to refresh and soothe your skin.
When shopping for witch hazel, look for a pure, alcohol-free formula to avoid drying out or irritating your skin. I personally love the witch hazel from The Soapery.
Their version is made with organic witch hazel and aloe vera to soothe and hydrate the skin. Plus, they have a great selection of essential oils you can add to customize your toner.
Check out the oil they offer for an extra boost of skincare benefits.
Conclusion
Witch hazel is a versatile, natural ingredient that offers numerous benefits for the skin.
Whether you’re dealing with acne, oiliness, inflammation, or aging concerns, incorporating witch hazel into your skincare routine can help you achieve a clearer, healthier-looking complexion.
As with any new skincare product, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first to make sure you don’t have any sensitivities or allergies.
And remember, while witch hazel can be a great addition to your regimen, it’s not a miracle cure-all.
Be sure to practice good skincare habits like cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin from the sun for best style and results.
I hope this article has inspired you to give witch hazel a try and see how it can benefit your unique skin type and concerns. Trust me, your skin will thank you!