Witch Hazel

Other Name(s):

Hamamelis virginiana

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a small tree/shrub, native to the Eastern ranges of the United States. It can grow well along river banks and the edges of streams in clay soils but thrives better in well-drained soil.

Is Witch Hazel Faithful to Nature?

Depends.

Witch Hazel is a natural ingredient with a rich history of traditional use. Much of the raw plant material is wild-harvested or sustainably farmed and it replaces higher concentrations of alcohol (>20%) in toner formulations.

Benefits: Why is Witch Hazel used?

Tighter Pores

Witch Hazel is a natural astringent (minimises pores).

Soothing

Witch Hazel may help to reduce scalp itchiness.

Calming

Witch Hazel may help to reduce skin irritation and inflammation.

Improves Skin Tone

Witch Hazel due to its many benefits for the skin such as smaller pores and calming inflammation it allows you to achieve a more even skin tone.

Learn more about Witch Hazel:

On the Shelf: Which Products Use Witch Hazel?

Witch Hazel is primarily used in facial toners but is also used in some aftershave balms and shampoos and scalp masks.

Production: How is Witch Hazel Made?

Witch Hazel is made using recently cut and partially dried twigs. The chief active compounds are found only in the bark and so twigs have the highest ratio of bark to wood pulp.

Interesting Fact: Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel contains active compounds eugenol and carvacrol. Eugenol is recognised in the European Union as a potential allergen. Whenever trying a new skincare product, including those which use Witch Hazel, it's always important to perform a patch test before first use.

If your skin is particularly sensitive to alcohol, you may wish to avoid Witch Hazel Extract as it contains a standard 14% ethyl alcohol. But if you still want to enjoy the benefits of Witch Hazel, the hydrosol type contains no alcohol.