For a natural skincare ingredient to be named as ‘witch’ hazel, it is only obvious that it will be full of magical properties. And as it turns out, it is indeed a miracle ingredient that can truly transform your skin. Although it has been used in skincare for a long time now, it was only recently that this ingredient gained the popularity and fame it deserved. It was one of the trending skincare ingredients of 2019 and for all the right reasons.

Besides fighting ageing signs and improving skin tone, it is believed to be a godsend ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin. If this has piqued your interest, read on to know more about witch hazel, what it can do for your skin and how you can use it in your skincare routine. 

 

So, what exactly is witch hazel?

So, what exactly is witch hazel?

A liquid extracted from the leaves and wood of a flowering shrub called witch hazel that is grown mainly in Japan and North America, this ingredient is used in skincare and for medical purposes. It can heal your skin, control excess oil and help fight acne as well. It also benefits sensitive skin type as it is anti-inflammatory and helps calm and soothe the skin. Plus, it is full of antioxidants and thus is an anti-ageing potion that can give you youthful and radiant skin.

You can get the witch hazel solution from any medical store and use it three to four times a week to get healthy and spotless skin. Don’t forget to do a patch test before you use it on your face.

Now that you know what it is and what it can do, let’s tell you how you can incorporate it in your daily skincare routine.

 

As a toner

As a toner

Witch hazel is an astringent and thus considered an excellent toner. From minimising the pore size to cleansing excess oil, it can do it all. Mix a few drops of witch hazel in rose water and pour on a cotton pad. Glide it all over your cleansed face and follow up with a serum and moisturiser.

 

In a face mask

In a face mask

To get rid of blemishes and acne scars and get even-toned and bright skin, mix one tablespoon of witch hazel into two tablespoons of honey. Add a few drops of tea tree oil and lavender oil. Mix the ingredients well and apply it on your face. Leave it on for 15 minutes and splash it off with lukewarm water. Pat your face dry and apply a moisturiser.

 

As a spot treatment

As a spot treatment

You can use witch hazel solution as a spot treatment. Dip a cotton ball into it and press it gently against the zit. Dab it on for a couple of minutes and wash off. Another way to use witch hazel for acne is by mixing it with aloe vera gel and applying it directly on the pimple. It will dry the pimple and reduce inflammation, redness and pain. Leave it on for half an hour and rinse. Don’t forget to moisturise.