Looking to get your skin a 100% this festive period? Ever heard of witch hazel, don’t fret. It has nothing to do with witches or their potions!
Witch hazel is a very potent and multipurpose skin ingredient. It heals wounds, soothes the skin, prevents itches and rashes, and also helps fight acne. Yes, it might not be made by witches but it sure is magical.
What exactly does witch hazel do?
(Photo: Garden Goods Direct)
1. Reduces Inflammation
Witch hazel contains numerous anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe skin inflammation. This makes it a fitting treatment for acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
2. Acts As A Moisturizer (to seal in moisture)
Keeping your skin moisturized is important for treating acne. This is because when your skin is dry, it gets dehydrated and starts to get inflamed when not intensely moisturized. A moisturizer with witch hazel will help seal in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and supple.
(Photo: Walgreens)
3. Acts As An Astringent (to shrink pores)
This magical plant also contains tannins which makes it a great astringent. Applying witch hazel to your skin will help shrink large pores, reducing the production of sebum or oil. It also prevents dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells from entering into your skin and clogging your pores. Witch hazel is very mild and can be used directly on your face.
(Photo: New Beauty)
Here are some ways you can use witch hazel for best results:
Witch Hazel As A Toner
All you need for this is cotton wool and a good witch hazel toner. Pour a few drops of witch hazel on your cotton wool and apply it all over your face. You can also use it as a spot treatment and apply it only on the affected areas. Allow it to dry off then apply your moisturizer. Do not wash it off.
(Photo: Aztec Healing)
As A Face Mask
For this anti-inflammatory face mask, you will need a teaspoon of witch hazel, 2 teaspoons of honey or 1 egg white. For dry skin, use honey as it will restore moisture and keep your skin supple. For oily skin, go with egg white. To apply, take a small bowl and mix the honey or egg white with the witch hazel. Apply the mask all over your face and leave it on for 20 minutes. If you are using egg white, leave it on till it dries. Wash it off with cool water and you will immediately see how rejuvenated your skin will be.
The most popular witch hazel brands are Thayers and D.N. Dickson’s and can be purchased here and at your local beauty/drug store.
As always, don’t forget to do a skin patch test first.
Featured Image via Collins Nai for Refinery29