For centuries, plants have been used for medicinal purposes, and one such plant is the witch hazel. This flowering shrub is native to North America and is quite popular for its countless medicinal qualities. Witch hazel is a clear liquid extracted and distilled from the bark and leaves of the plant. This natural and fragrant astringent is used in many skincare and beauty products, including ache washes, scrubs, toners, and many more. So if you want clearer and healthier skin from a natural product, you should look no further than the witch hazel.
What Is Witch Hazel?
Witch hazel refers to an extract from the hamamelis or witch hazel plant native to North America. This plant extract has been used for centuries to relieve swelling and pain. In addition, it is a powerful antioxidant and has potent anti-inflammatory properties. All these properties of witch hazel deliver fantastic health benefits to the skin.
Known for its anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties, witch hazel toner is a natural topical remedy for skin-related problems, such as skin blemishes, irritations, hyperpigmentation, insect bites, and more.
The Beauty and Cosmetic Benefits of Witch Hazel
Witch hazel comprises components that soothe minor skin problems such as acne, burns, irritated skin, inflammation, insect bites, and many more. Products containing witch hazel extract are recommended for use as facial wipes and toners to treat acne, shrink enlarged pores, and decrease under-eye puffiness. The extract can also be found in moisturizers and cleansers that you keep in your travel makeup bag. Keep reading to discover the many benefits of witch hazel for the skin.
Improves Breakouts
Acne breakouts are so unbearable because they are noticeable. The redness is mainly triggered by local inflammation, which is a reaction to bacterial infection that brings about acne. Witch hazel can be applied directly, in spot treatment, or used as a formulated cream on the breakout area. Witch hazel toner reduces inflammation, decreasing the conspicuousness and tenderness of pimples and zits.
Fights off Aging
Witch Hazel contains polyphenols that can help fight premature ageing. This plant has antioxidants such as vitamins C and E that help mitigate and prevent free radical damage on your skin from UV rays and oxidizes air pollution. In addition, the astringent properties of witch hazel will make your skin appear firmer with fewer wrinkles and lines. Be sure always to have witch hazel products in your travel makeup bag to maintain healthy and youthful skin.
Relieves Sunburn
You can ease inflammation by applying witch hazel on sunburned skin. Witch hazel contains antioxidant polyphenols that relieve skin and provide shine reduction and hydration. In addition, you are assured of protection against UV damage, early ageing signs, and discolouration that results from acne.
Prevents Rashes and Ingrown Hairs
Witch hazel works as a soothing after-shave treatment that you can apply to any part of the body. It helps slow down bleeding from cuts and nicks, preventing razor bumps and burns around your hair follicles. In addition, it prevents the formation of ingrown hairs and the growth of bacteria or infections around the hair follicles. All you need to do is swipe a witch-hazel-soaked cotton ball on your chin after shaving to keep your skin bump-free and calm. Some people prefer to use witch hazel toner and other healing essential oils on the skin after waxing to help reduce bleeding, swelling, and pain.
Reduces Dandruff
Dandruff is caused by excess sebum or oil secretion and product buildup. The sebum-controlling and anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel reduce oil concentration on the scalp, reducing dandruff. Dandruff also causes flakiness and itchiness, and witch hazel can help to calm the irritation and inflammation of your scalp. For sensitive scalp, diluting witch hazel with water is recommended before applying. You should have witch hazel products in your travel makeup bag.
Reduces Sensitivity
Over 40% of people suffer from sensitive skin. Sensitivity is usually related to inflammation, although the cause of inflammation remains unknown. However, you don’t need to know why your skin is inflamed or irritated to get relief from using a witch hazel toner. Witch hazel reduces redness, itchiness, and irritation. In addition, witch hazel can complement most cosmetic products without any side effects. You can use witch hazel toner before applying your favorite serums and lotions or combine it with your body creams.
Witch hazel is a natural topical remedy with long-standing medicinal purposes. The plant extract contains several compounds with antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that are useful for treating different conditions, including scalp sensitivity, acne, and inflammation, soothing sunburns, and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Always go for witch hazel products that are alcohol-free and organic to reduce the risks of irritation, and stop using them if you notice any side effects, such as redness, irritation, or excessive dryness.
