Is Witch Hazel Good For Your Skin? A Dermatologist Weighs In

You’ve seen witch hazel in a number of skin care products on your medicine counter. Spotted amongst toners, ointments, face mists, and more, witch hazel is popping up in a handful of beauty products across the board. We get that it’s a popular ingredient, but is it actually good for your skin? To find out the benefits (and risk factors) associated with using witch hazel on the skin, we tapped dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, and Skincare.com consultant. Can this widely-popular ingredient do more harm than good to your skin? Read on to find out! 

WHAT IS WITCH HAZEL?   

The history of witch hazel can be traced back many years, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). It’s an astringent derived from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub, and is often used to neutralize the itch on bee stings and bug bites, as well as soothe irritation associated with skin abrasions. Thanks to its astringent properties, you can find witch hazel formulated into a wide range of skin care products, including toners, cleansers, and essences.

THE BENEFITS OF WITCH HAZEL

Witch hazel is a natural antioxidant that has a long track record of helping to alleviating inflammation caused by acne and eczema, according to a study published on the Journal of Inflammation. It’s also a source of tannin, which contributes to its astringent properties and makes it a hot commodity in over-the-counter beauty products like cleansers and toners. But it doesn’t stop there. Witch hazel also makes cameos in shaving creams, bug repellant, mouthwash, shampoo, face wash, anti-aging serums, and more.

SHOULD I USE WITCH HAZEL ON MY FACE?

Although witch hazel is widely recognized as a well-rounded ingredient for itchy bug bites, be cautious when it comes to using it on your face. “Witch hazel is an astringent that can strip oil from the skin,” Dr. Zeichner says. “If your skin is very oily, you may be able to tolerate it. But if you have dry or sensitive skin, I would skip it as it may lead to irritation.”

Topical witch hazel may not be right for your sensitive skin, but that doesn’t mean you should steer clear of all products formulated with the ingredient. In some formulas, the concentration of witch hazel could be minimal. If the product of your choice says it is suitable for use on all skin types, including sensitive skin, chances are an irritation won’t ensue. When in doubt, consult your dermatologist to find out if the product in question—or witch hazel overall—is right for your skin concerns.