Say goodbye to enlarged pores and brighten up your skin! Hamamelis virginiana is a North American deciduous shrub with colourful flowers that looks like a hazel, and is commonly known as the witch hazel. An effective plant extract which has exceptional effects on the skin is produced from some of its parts.
Characteristics of witch hazel
Witch hazel contains a variety of antioxidants, flavonoids, tannins and procyanidins, which are anti-inflammatory and soothing. It is therefore used in both skincare products and in creams and preparations for varicose veins, to promote healing and disinfect the skin.
Effects of witch hazel on the skin
It has an astringent effect, i.e. it tightens pores.
It cleanses, tones, soothes and brightens up your skin.
It promotes microcirculation in the skin.
It supports skin hydration by locking in moisture.
It reduces sebum production and stops acne from forming.
It can help improve the condition of eczema, dermatitis and other inflammatory symptoms.
Skincare products with witch hazel
Witch hazel is used in skincare as a toner (witch hazel toner), most often for oily and problem skin. Thanks to the substances it contains, it can soothe irritated and red skin, support its hydration, tighten pores and remove excess sebum.
You will also find witch hazel in washing foams, gels and other acne products or for general skincare.
When choosing skincare products with witch hazel, make sure the alcohol content is minimal, or preferably none. Alcohol is often used to extract the beneficial substances from the witch hazel, but it dries out the skin and is not at all beneficial in the long term.
Try a witch hazel toner or witch hazel gel face wash and enjoy fresh, soothed skin. If you’re dealing with acne, pores or oily skin, learn about the other active ingredients in skincare products, such as AHAs, salicylic acid and hemp.