Acne. While certain types of acne (such as cysts and pustules) are inflammatory, witch hazel may possible benefit noninflammatory acne (blackheads and whiteheads) too. The idea behind witch hazel for acne treatment is that it can act as an astringent by drying out your acne blemishes, much like other OTC treatments.
Witch hazel can be used on its own or found within skin care products such as toners. While it can't cure acne on its own, it can dry up oil and shrink blemishes in addition to relieving symptoms such as inflammation, redness and irritation. Witch hazel is easy to incorporate into your skin care routine.
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.
A. Witch hazel, when used regularly can diminish dark spots and blemishes, thereby improving and correcting skin tone. You can add a few drops of witch hazel to your cleanser and use the mixture to wash your face.
Vitamin C. Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which can brighten skin and even skin tone. Vitamin C has been shown to be an effective depigmenting agent that decreases melanin formation.
Evens Skin Tone & Helps Heal Bruises
Including witch hazel in your cleanser can help keep your skin clear and smooth without drying it out. It can also help even out your skin tone. “Witch hazel is known to treat blemishes on the face and the entire body,” says Matles.
Shari Sperling says witch hazel can actually help with a number of skin ailments. Among the long list of benefits? Relieving inflammation and redness, calming eczema, acne and psoriasis, assisting in shrinking pores, and even reducing puffiness and brightening skin.
Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, some research suggests that witch hazel could be useful in the treatment of acne. It can be applied directly to your face after cleansing or steaming for maximum effectiveness.
How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade? Once what's causing the dark spots or patches is found and stopped, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months. If the color lies deep in your skin, however, fading can take years.
Best Toner: Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner
This refreshing toner by Ole Henriksen uses two types of AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid) and licorice root to help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
Follow up with moisturizer: It's best to pair witch hazel with a moisturizer to avoid over-drying your skin, says Dr. Schlessinger. Otherwise, you run the risk of triggering more acne. We recommend these dermatologist-approved moisturizers for oily, acne-prone skin.
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.
Witch hazel is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when applied directly to the skin. In some people, it might cause minor skin irritation. Witch hazel is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when small doses are taken by mouth. In some people, witch hazel might cause stomach upset when taken by mouth.
Do a spot test first to see how your skin reacts.
Wait 5 to 10 minutes to see if your skin reacts. Witch hazel usually works best for oily skin because witch hazel is an astringent. If your skin reacts, you may notice red, irritated skin or a rash develop.
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.
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.
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.
People may be able to treat acne blemishes with topical creams, such as benzoyl peroxide. These products can help dry out the skin and get rid of acne-causing bacteria. Washing the face twice daily with a cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help treat certain types of acne.
Salicylic acid: This active ingredient helps unclog pores and prevent new acne breakouts. Retinol: This can unclog pores and fade dark spots. You'll find benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinol in acne products that you can buy without a prescription. Retinol is a type of retinoid.