Witch hazel, derived from the Hamamelis virginiana plant, is a natural astringent with a wide range of medicinal and cosmetic applications. Its popularity stems from its ability to soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. However, not all witch hazel products are created equal. Some brands may contain additives or alcohol, which can diminish their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions.
To ensure you’re getting the purest and most beneficial witch hazel, look for products that are:
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Alcohol-free: Alcohol can dry out and irritate the skin, negating the soothing effects of witch hazel.
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Additive-free: Avoid products that contain artificial fragrances, dyes, or other unnecessary ingredients. These additives can potentially cause allergic reactions or skin irritation.
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Certified organic: Organic certification guarantees that the witch hazel has been grown and processed without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This ensures a pure and natural product.
Benefits of Pure Witch Hazel
Pure witch hazel offers a multitude of benefits for the skin, including:
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Anti-inflammatory properties: Witch hazel contains tannins, which have anti-inflammatory effects. This makes it an effective treatment for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
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Astringent properties: Witch hazel helps to tighten and tone the skin, reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines. It also helps to control excess oil production, making it beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin.
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Antioxidant properties: Witch hazel is rich in antioxidants, which protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can contribute to premature aging and skin damage.
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Soothing properties: Witch hazel has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin, making it ideal for treating sunburn, insect bites, and other skin irritations.
How to Use Pure Witch Hazel
Pure witch hazel can be used in a variety of ways to benefit the skin. Here are a few suggestions:
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As a toner: Apply witch hazel to a cotton ball and gently wipe it over your face after cleansing. This will help to remove any remaining impurities, tighten the skin, and reduce the appearance of pores.
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As a spot treatment: Dab a small amount of witch hazel directly onto blemishes or other skin irritations. This will help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
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As a compress: Soak a washcloth in witch hazel and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. This is an effective way to soothe sunburn, insect bites, or other skin irritations.
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As a bath soak: Add 1/2 cup of witch hazel to your bathwater to enjoy its soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Where to Find Pure Witch Hazel
Pure witch hazel can be found at most health food stores and online retailers. Look for products that are labeled “alcohol-free” and “additive-free.” Some reputable brands of pure witch hazel include:
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Thayer’s Witch Hazel: Thayer’s is a well-known brand that offers a variety of witch hazel products, including toners, serums, and wipes. Their products are alcohol-free and made with certified organic witch hazel.
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Earthwise Pure Witch Hazel: Earthwise is another reputable brand that offers pure witch hazel distillate. Their product is alcohol-free and made with witch hazel that is sustainably sourced in the USA.
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Heritage Store Witch Hazel: Heritage Store offers a range of witch hazel products, including toners, gels, and sprays. Their products are alcohol-free and made with certified organic witch hazel.
Conclusion
Pure witch hazel is a versatile and effective natural remedy for a variety of skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory, astringent, antioxidant, and soothing properties make it a valuable addition to any skincare routine. When choosing a witch hazel product, be sure to look for one that is alcohol-free, additive-free, and certified organic. With regular use, pure witch hazel can help to improve the health and appearance of your skin.
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intensely hydrating + plumping moisture water
ultra soothing alcohol-free witch hazel + honey
revitalizing, antioxidant-rich bubble rinse cleanser
mattifying oil control toner
ultra refreshing micellar makeup remover
ultra calming pure witch hazel + rosemary for distressed skin
fragrance-free pure witch hazel
gentle exfoliating bubble rinse cleanser
effortlessly removes longwear + waterproof makeup
youth boosting bakuchiol + elderflower serum water
super hydrating and plumping serum water
deep cleansing toner made with willow bark
pore minimizing toner made with white oak
ultra calming serum water for puffy, tired skin
brightening and rejuvenating serum water
clears blemish prone skin
I noticed a reduction in pimples. Rather than just leaving my face smelling nice, it actually seems to cleanse it. It’s nice that the dryness has subsided and my skin is now just even rather than oily or dry. Just about all of the redness around my nose has disappeared. As compared to Humphreys, Ill probably switch brands. – Tester Anndra B.
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fragrance-free true witch hazel
7.4 FL OZ / 219 mL
Our products, which are made from freshly distilled witch hazel plants, are unparalleled in their potency and contain unparalleled amounts of plant actives. They successfully balance, soothe, tone, and clarify your skin without using a lot of alcohol or chemicals derived from petroleum. Discover the true benefits of hazel on your skin by letting the witch hazel plant do what it does best!
With HAZEL FOR REAL, you can see witch hazel in all of its purity. This mild, non-drying, fragrance- and alcohol-free formula visibly evens out skin tone, reduces the visibility of pores, and smoothes skin texture. See visibly clear, pore-healthy skin with consistent use.
Distilled Witch Hazel Water (Hamamelis Virginiana), Extract from Hamamelis Virginiana, Glycerin, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Levulinic Acid, and Water (Aqua)
Use at any time to gently pat or swipe skin with a cotton pad.
Witch Hazel: Is it just another astringent?
FAQ
Is there a pure witch hazel?
Is there 100% witch hazel?
What should I look for when buying witch hazel?
Is witch hazel organic?
This formula contains 100% pure natural organic witch hazel. It is great for using on the face, décolletage, eye area, body and more. The dark amber bottle extends the shelf life of the product. Nothing Added This organic unscented alcohol-free witch hazel is made with only pure ingredients.
What is witch hazel water?
You may see a product called witch hazel water ( Hamamelis water, distilled witch hazel extract). This is a liquid that is distilled from dried leaves, bark, and partially dormant twigs of witch hazel. Witch hazel is taken by mouth for diarrhea, mucus colitis, vomiting blood, coughing up blood, tuberculosis, colds, fevers, tumors, and cancer.
Is Witch Hazel a natural remedy?
Witch hazel is a natural remedy made from a plant called Hamamelis virginiana. Native American tribes used it to soothe skin problems. It’s one of the few plants the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved as an ingredient for over-the-counter medicines. Inside witch hazel’s leaves, bark, and twigs are medicinal chemicals called tannins.
Is Witch Hazel a good astringent?
However, there is no research to support this use. The astringent properties of witch hazel cause the skin to tighten and small blood vessels to constrict, which may help stop bleeding from minor cuts or nosebleeds. Witch hazel is safe for most people to use as an at-home treatment for some common skin issues.