Aside from the key substance (tannins), many witch hazel products contain alcohol ingredients (like ethanol) that over-dry the skin and sometimes do more harm than good. Some variations can have up to 15 percent alcohol, which might be irritating to certain skin types like people with dry, acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Unfortunately, yes. If used too much, witch hazel can dry out your skin and lead to adverse acne effects. Dr. Shainhouse explains: “The dryness leads to skin irritation and can trigger rebound oil production, leaving skin oilier,” says Dr.
Witch hazel has many benefits for skin, including relieving inflammation, tightening pores, and helping with razor bumps. It may also help reduce acne, since it can cleanse your skin of excess oil. However, witch hazel should not be used by people with dry or extremely sensitive skin since it can cause irritation.
By now we know that witch hazel can absorb excess oil and banish blemishes, but its acne-fighting benefits don't stop there. In fact, the calming, anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel can help you reduce the size of pimples, which makes it a powerful acne treatment in its own right.
In general, Dr. Shamban says you can use your witch hazel toner anywhere from twice a week to every day, depending on how your skin responds. But when it comes to an alcohol-based astringent, don't overdo it.
Apple cider vinegar is a great substitute for witch hazel because it is also natural. It is a perfect replacement for witch hazel for face and for aging skin.
Although witch hazel contains a known cancer-causing ingredient, there's likely no need for concern unless you regularly use high concentrations. The amounts are very small. Because studies are limited, avoid using witch hazel if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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. “This toner uses witch hazel as a key ingredient to tighten the skin and fight aging by reducing inflammation,” says Dr.
Some people may have an allergic reaction to witch hazel, so it is best to test it first on a small patch of skin and monitor it for 24 hours. If there is no redness, itching, or irritation, it should be safe to apply to a larger area.
“Witch Hazel is best used 2-3 times a week, after cleansing, because it removes traces of cleanser, makeup, dirt, or oil.
The Bottom line: Witch hazel may be a great way to look younger right now, but long term, don't expect it to prevent wrinkles. You should also be wary of a cream that touts it as its miracle ingredient—once the shrinking effect wears off, your wrinkles will be more noticeable.
Retin-A and Toner
Toners are great for a multitude of reasons; some have glycolic acid that brings new skin to the surface, some contain witch hazel, which is great at treating acne. But when Retin-A is in your routine, Colbert warns against using them.
The high concentration of tannins in the product makes it a great natural astringent, removing excess oil and shrinking pores. From bruises to pigmentation to redness, witch hazel works from the inside out to heal underlying damage and broken skin, and fade dark spots.
The antibacterial activity observed in WH is thus due to other molecules present, such as the phenolic compounds reported in witch hazel (gallic acid and catechins), which are known to have antibacterial activities [21,22,32].
The name witch hazel is a derivation from old English “wice” or “wiche” which means pliant or bendable. Early English settlers found that the branches of the witch hazel could be used to douse or divine for underground water much as the hazel bush (Corylus) was used back in England.
Should I Use Witch Hazel as a Toner? Absolutely! Witch hazel makes a fantastic toner. In fact, it is one of the best ways to remove dirt, grime, and excess traces of makeup at the end of the day to keep your skin looking clear and beautiful.
But to prevent your skin from drying out or becoming irritated, both dermatologists recommend using witch hazel that comes in an oily vehicle and is alcohol free. Gross adds, "It's important to remember that any type of over-cleansing puts people at risk for the hazards of over-drying the skin, including breakouts.
Many people have reported that witch hazel has helped with their hair loss. That's because it works to increase blood circulation in the scalp, delivering vital nutrients to the hair follicles, which can stimulate healthy growth.
Witch hazel is an astringent often used to reduce swelling, irritation, and redness. Apply with a cotton ball and let sit on closed eyes for 5 minutes. To really rejuvenate your eyes, chill the witch hazel first!
Witch hazel acts as an astringent to help shrink your pores, soothe your skin and reduce inflammation.