We All Wanna Know: What Does Witch Hazel Do for the Face?
If you're a skin care/ beauty enthusiast just like me then you have definitely come across different regimes with Witch Hazel in them, Known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Witch Hazel on the face has been recommended by many beauty gurus as part of a natural solution for different skin issues. However, a lot of people still think about "what does witch hazel do to your face?" If you're one of them, then keep reading, because this write up is centered on everything you need to know.
What Is Witch Hazel?
Witch Hazel, also known as Hamamelis Virginiana, is a shrub found in the United States. This plant has been used by Native Americans for centuries to treat and correct skin ailments as a result of inflammation. It has, also, been used for the treatment of scalp diseases as well. Nowadays, Witch Hazel can be found in any drugstore and it is also used in some natural care beauty products. Hence, it is widely available for use and can be gotten without any hassle.
Is Witch Hazel A Toner or An Astringent?
A huge concern for many is whether Witch Hazel or products that contains witch hazel for oily skin is safe, because they aren't sure if Witch Hazel is a toner or an astringent. Well, the thing is Witch Hazel is a brilliant toner that works great for acne and other skin diseases; however, it is astringent in nature.
Essentially, what this means is that, Witch Hazel contain tannins, a class of astringent molecules, that are known for reducing swelling, fighting bacteria and repairing broken skin. Unfortunately, the downside to this is that it can be drying, which is one of the many Witch Hazel on face side effects. However, it is great for oily skin because it balances out the oil in the skin.
It is also, advisable to follow up with a good moisturizer each time you use Witch Hazel or products containing witch hazel on your face to avoid unbalanced PH levels and growth of bacteria.
5 Amazing Benefits of Using Witch Hazel
Applying Witch Hazel on face is beneficial in so many ways and to every skin type.
Here are the top 5 benefits you stand to gain by adding it to your skin care regimen.
1.Reduced Inflammation
One of the major benefits of adding Witch Hazel to your face is its anti-inflammatory properties. Although inflammation is a natural response to fighting potential infections in the body, it can cause other ailments.
Witch Hazel is packed with compounds like tannins and Gallic acid known to reduce swelling. Also, it contains antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and inhibits inflammation from occurring at all.
2. It Helps with Skin Irritation
Inflamed or broken skin can lead to skin irritation, which opens the door to many skin issues. Because Witch Hazel contains tannins and Gallic acid, which helps with broken skin, it is safe to use on the face. As a matter of fact, according to research, applying Witch Hazel topically to the skin provides relief from skin issues like Erythema. Thus, Witch Hazel on face is safe.
3. It Is Very Effective Against Acne
A common reason many people ask, "Can you use witch hazel on your face?" Is because of their many skin issues like acne. Well, the answer is a resounding yes! Acne happens to be one of the prominent skin issues suffered by more Americans.
Fortunately, Witch Hazel helps in fighting against acne, because it is an astringent. Basically, it shrinks your pores, thus, preventing them from retaining dirt. It also reduces the inflammation and fights bacteria, which eventually keeps your face clean and clear.
4. It Possesses Anti-Aging Properties
Witch Hazel acts as a natural toner and rids the face of any dirt and bacteria. A clean face translates to less susceptibility to defects of the skin. Also, Witch Hazel has antioxidant properties, which is great for preventing free radicals from UV rays from causing definite harm. All of these properties reduce the case of premature aging and would leave your skin looking youthful, supple and clear.
5. Improves Skin tone
It's almost a no brainer that using Witch Hazel on face will improve its skin tone. Think about it, reduce inflammation & puffiness, free radical protection, acne free skin all improves the overall appearance of your skin.
Witch Hazel can be used for different purposes in the face; general cleansing or fighting acne & blemishes.