Witch Hazel

About the Ingredient: Witch Hazel

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Categories: Plant

What Is Witch Hazel Used For? The North American witch-hazel plant is a shrub or small tree that blooms small, yellow flowers in the fall. Witch Hazel, as an ingredient, is extracted from the leaves and bark from the witch-hazel plant. It is made through the process of distillation (the process of purifying a liquid by successive evaporation and condensation), or decoction (extraction by means of boiling).

It is widely used in skincare for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, which make it great for treating acne, sunburns, and nourishing the skin.

Witch Hazel can be purchased commercially for external use* in many pharmacies and drugstores, as it is a common ingredient for use in homemade remedies and topical treatments.

*Witch Hazel should not be ingested, as it is potentially toxic.

What Is the Definition of Witch Hazel? Witch Hazel is an extract made from the leaves and bark of the Hamamelis virginiana, witch-hazel shrub. It is known for uses in skincare and health due to its many benefits.

What Are the Benefits of Witch Hazel?

• Anti-inflammatory
• Astringent
• Treating Acne
• Great For Oily Skin
• Soothing Benefits
• Fades Scars
• Treating Sunburns

What Is Witch Hazel Used In? Gels, Creams, Mists/Sprays, Ointments, Salves

What Is the Origin of Witch Hazel? Witch Hazel derives from the North American shrub of the same name and has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. Native Americans first used the extract to treat external irritations, and it was later adopted by early settlers.

Cautions: While Witch Hazel is usually good for all skin types, it may cause irritation in extreme cases.

Products That Include Witch Hazel: Alana Mitchell Foaming Pumpkin Cleanser