Hamamelis Virginiana, better known as witch hazel, is a plant native to North America that has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. It is well known to help relieve pain, minor bleeding, swelling and skin irritations. Witch Hazel is touted in the skin care industry as an astringent and toner to help with a number of skin care issues. Products containing witch hazel extract will have a calming and antibacterial effect. The benefits of witch hazel for your skin stretch far, and begin with some of the individual ingredients contained.

Active Ingredients in Witch Hazel

Gallic Acid

Contains antibacterial, anti-acne properties.

Isoquercitrin

A flavonoid with antiviral activity.

Kaempferol

A flavonol with phytoestrogen activity.

Quercetin

Among its capabilities: free radical scavenging, interferes with inducible nitric oxide synthase activity, and inhibits TNF-alpha release, anti-itch.

Quercitrin

A flavonoid with antioxidant properties.

Plants, like people, are beautiful and complicated living beings. They create these chemicals for their own need and survival, not for our beauty. They may work as UV filters for the plant that makes them.

It’s true that there are many benefits to including witch hazel extract in your skin care routine but it is not the only ingredient to use. Our skin is even more complicated than a plant and needs many different chemicals to maintain its healthy glow. That’s why we include witch hazel in a number of our products, but we don’t sell witch hazel by itself.

Skin Actives Products Containing Witch Hazel

Vitamin C Toner

Contains witch hazel, aloe extract and vitamin C, this toner gives you an extra boost of antioxidants while it cleans and tones.

Nourishing Floral Toner

Made with rose water, witch hazel and sea kelp bioferment, this toner reduces redness and irritation while it cleanses and refreshes your face.

Remember, don’t use alcoholic extracts of this herb, because alcohol will dry your skin and, water is the most important active ingredient in skincare! Use a toner to remove traces of cleansers but don’t dry your skin in the process.

Check out all of the Skin Actives products that contain witch hazel here. You can include witch hazel in your skincare regimen without adding an extra step. Shipping is free on all standard orders in the US.