Thanks to its powerful
If you're just starting to use witch hazel on your face, brush it on your skin 1 time a day. This will give your skin a chance to get used to it and will prevent your skin from drying out too quickly. Once you've used it for several days, you can use the witch hazel up to 2 times a day.
How often should you use witch hazel toner? 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.
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.
Although witch hazel can be used to decrease surface oil and inflammation, which can minimize the size of pores, it's also a free-radical scavenger which can protect skin against premature environmental aging.”
Dermatologists give the toner their seal of approval
"Witch hazel is a botanical ingredient used in skin care for its astringent effects on the skin," he said. "It can effectively remove oil from the skin to improve shine and minimize the appearance of pores, and may help soothe inflammation."
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. It will also prevent excess oil production and keep acne at bay.
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. Plus, it acts as a great base for moisturizers and other serums.
It Helps with Skin Irritation
Because Witch Hazel contains tannins and Gallic acid, which helps with broken skin, it is safe to use on the face. As a matter of fact, according to research, applying Witch Hazel topically to the skin provides relief from skin issues like Erythema. Thus, Witch Hazel on face is safe.
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.
Combined, tea tree and witch hazel work fast to calm and soothe the surrounding skin. Simply use before bed for an effective overnight treatment or swipe on during the day for an on-the-go solution.
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. Large doses might cause liver problems. Witch hazel contains a cancer-causing chemical (safrole), but in amounts that are too small to be of concern.
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. It also reduces inflammation (see above), another major cause of hair loss.
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.
Witch hazel acts as an astringent to help shrink your pores, soothe your skin and reduce inflammation.
The most convenient way to add witch hazel to your skin care routine is to use it as a toner: Wash and rinse your face with a gentle cleanser, then add a few drops of witch hazel to a cotton ball and apply it to your face, says Dr. Jaliman. (There's no need to rinse it.)
Rose water has been used as a beauty product for thousands of years, so it's no surprise that it can improve your complexion and reduce skin redness. The antibacterial properties may help reduce acne. The anti-inflammatory properties can reduce skin redness and puffiness.
Witch hazel has also been proven safe when applied to the scalp. Witch hazel may also help under-eye bags. However, it should not be applied directly in the eyes, or else you could risk burns.
Possible Side Effects
Studies show that allergic reactions to witch hazel are rare. 1 Healthcare providers consider witch hazel safe when applied to the skin, but not when swallowed. Ingesting witch hazel can cause problems like nausea, vomiting, and liver damage.
A common misconception is also that the witch hazel plant naturally contains alcohol, and that's simply not the case. Its astringent properties come from tannins.
“Exfoliating in the morning is one of the most essential steps because it removes dead skin cells that can dull the surface of the skin and creates a smooth base for makeup application,” says Dr. Wedgeworth. Clarifying Lotion Twice A Day Exfoliator is a gentle, liquid exfoliator you can use every day, twice a day.
Witch hazel is also good for dry skin when paired with other nourishing ingredients, such as aloe vera and jojoba oil. As you can tell, the dynamic duo of Vitamin C and witch hazel are a winning combination when it comes to perfecting your daily skincare routine.
The best substitute for witch hazel is slippery elm. It is a natural, medicinal plant just like witch hazel. Slippery elm also has anti inflammatory properties and can be used topically or ingested. Rubbing alcohol is a good substitute for witch hazel if you are looking to serialize or clean a wound.