Introduction
Few skincare products are more recognizable than OM24. Open up any of your friend’s or relative’s bathroom cabinets and, sure as a cockcrow, you will find it. But despite the fact that you may be already familiar with the product, my guess is that you don’t know much about its star ingredient, which is called witch hazel.
Used to make a wide variety of products like hamamelis creme gesicht, witch hazel is an herbal extract that’s been used for hundreds of years as an ingredient in skin cleansers, toners, and wipes. But how much do you know about witch hazel? In this article, we break down this famous skin product ingredient for you. Before you use products like Hamamelis gesichtcreme or Hamamelis lotion, here is everything to know about witch hazel. Continue reading to learn more.
What is witch hazel?
Known scientifically as Hamamelis virginiana, witch hazel is a North American herb that was used by the indigenous people of this region to treat various skin ailments like inflammation and irritation.
It is available at your local drugstore in pure form or you can also find it as a key ingredient in several over-the-counter ointments and creams. Witch hazel has proven to be more effective for treating skin conditions of the face than traditional toners or astringents.
However, its common availability should not mean that witch hazel is safe for everyone’s skin. Continue reading to know if the health claims surrounding it are true and if it is safe to try.
What is witch hazel used for?
Witch hazel is highly versatile thanks to its rich repertoire of anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antioxidant effects. Witch hazel is a common ingredient in many products for treating oily skin and acne. The ingredient is also commonly used to treat diaper rash, bug bites, poison ivy, poison oak, and hemorrhoids, to mention but a few.
There is also evidence to suggest that using witch hazel can calm itchiness and improve scaling and redness in eczema patients. Further, as shown by a 2011 study, witch hazel has the potential to reduce inflammation and redness in the skin after it has been exposed to ultraviolet light.
How safe is Witch Hazel for Your Skin?
According to a 2015 study that was published in the journal of Clinical and Cosmetic Dermatology which examined a product containing witch hazel, it was revealed that the ingredient is safe for treating irritating facial skin and sensitive skin. The research found that it has non-irritating, non-stinging, and non-comedogenic properties. But this doesn’t mean that you should throw caution to the wind when using witch hazel-containing products like hamamelis lotion.
Experts agree that using witch hazel in limited amounts is generally safe. However, because it tends to be distilled with alcohol, it can lead to dryness if used for a long time. Therefore, when choosing a witch hazel product, make sure you read the label correctly to see that it doesn’t contain drying agents, for example, denatured alcohol.
Can witch hazel relieve acne?
Witch hazel, when used in its form, is the most effective remedy for redness and inflammation. This makes it ideal for being included in topical products that help minimize breakouts or inflamed acne.
But this ingredient should never be mistaken for a treatment for acne. That is it because it is unlikely to treat the root cause of outbreaks. But witch hazel can soothe acne skin, accelerate clearing, and reduce inflammation. But don’t trust it too much to treat acne breakouts.
Other Health Benefits of Witch Hazel
Inflammatory skin conditions
The benefits of witch hazel don’t just end with treating acne. Research shows that using witch hazel can also help with other inflammatory conditions of the skin, for example, eczema and psoriasis. The rationale here is that treating the underlying inflammation could lead to reduced instances of rashes on the skin.
You can also apply witch hazel safely on your scalp. It is also believed to help with under-eye bags but care should be taken not to apply it directly to the eyes. This helps to avoid risk burns.
Burns
Witch hazel has been used traditionally to treat sunburns. But, contrary to what is often posted online, witch hazel cannot be used as sunscreen. The ingredient can also be applied directly to minor skin burns, for example, those caused by chemicals. It is even recommended for dealing with razor burns or those irritations that you get after you shave.
The best way of using witch hazel for treating skin burns is to soak a strong paper towel or soft cloth with the solution. After that, press it gently onto the affected part of the skin. Avoid rubbing it in as this can cause further irritation.
Witch hazel is effective in treating scalp burns in both men and women. Such burns could be caused by UV-ray or chemical exposures. You may apply witch hazel directly to the scalp when showering. Another option is to take a small amount of witch hazel and mix it with your shampoo.
See your dermatologist
Witch hazel is generally safe for the skin. However, like anything else, witch hazel doesn’t work for everyone.
If this is your time trying out witch hazel, it is recommended to first perform a patch test before you apply it to your face. This involves taking a drop of Hamamelis lotion and applying it to a small part of the skin. Leave it for a few days and see how it reacts with your skin. Only after that can you apply it to your face. If, however, you notice any rash or redness, just know that it isn’t ideal for your skin.
Witch hazel isn’t also recommended for come skin conditions, like extreme dryness or rosacea. The ingredient isn’t also advisable for people that have sensitive skin.
Conclusion
Witch hazel is a natural ingredient that has several benefits for the skin. Applying topical products containing witch hazel, for example, Hamamelis gesichtcreme, can help with acne, and psoriasis, and reduce skin inflammation. But it is not for everyone. You might want to check out Somebody and know how to use witch hazel on your face for your skin care. Additionally, some over-the-counter formulas often have added ingredients that could cause irritation to the skin. Like alcohol. That is why you should read the label carefully before you purchase any hamamelis creme gesicht product to ensure that it doesn’t have ingredients like alcohol that can cause dryness.
