11 Skin Health Benefits of Witch Hazel

It is not actually a well-kept secret anymore that Witch Hazel has a variety of therapeutic effects. From Asia to America, it has been in use for centuries to treat diarrhea, ulcers, muscle aches and even skin problems. This FDA approved golden treasure, scientifically referred as Hamamelis Virginiana, is the popular herbal remedy that is widely used as natural toner and cleanser, but it does more than just healing your skin. Many herbalists recommend Witch Hazel for skin problems due to its efficacy and effective results.

Witch Hazel is the extract of a medicinal plant that is long been known for its amazing effects and healing properties and hence it is used in different skin care problems. The medicinal properties in Witch Hazel are quite effective for skin and hair and can treat a variety of skin conditions. Most of the herbalists recommend the use of Witch Hazel for skin problems as it is scientifically approved. It is believed that its antioxidant properties and other compounds can help treat conditions like varicose veins and hemorrhoids and other skin disorders. Over the years, people have already recognized the benefits of Witch Hazel, but here we have some common benefits of Witch Hazel for skin problems.

1. Acne

   Consider treating acne when you think of Witch Hazel for skin problems. The primary ingredient found in Witch Hazel is astringent that has amazing anti-inflammatory properties owing to the high level of tannins in its leaves. Tannins are clinically approved to tighten, harden and dry the tissues. It aids the skin to create its own protective layer and stimulates proper blood circulation for faster healing. Besides reducing the inflammation, Witch Hazel can also protect the skin layers from invades of the bacteria, while enhancing the moisture level and hydration and hormone level. If you use Witch Hazel in moderation, then it will tighten the pores and prevents over-drying of the skin.

2. Bruises & Infections

   Another conventional use of Witch Hazel is to soothe the infections like poison ivy and healing cuts and bruises faster thus preventing wound infections. Witch hazel for skin problems is popular for skin cuts and infections as well. Since Witch Hazel is rich in anti-inflammatory properties and indirect antibacterial effect, it always remains a perfect choice for treating minor buries and cuts and it also prevents the damages of the tissues that may occur in the early stage of the injury. Besides poison ivy, Witch Hazel can also treat chicken pox and cuts and bruises which may originate from bacteria or viruses.

3. Sun Damages

   The antioxidant properties of Witch Hazel protect the skin from sun damages, especially when it is applied topically. It also has anti-inflammatory effects which are very helpful and effective to be used as after-sun creams to reduce the damages caused by sunrays. It can also treat sunburn and soothe the sunburn redness and pain. The efficiency of Witch Hazel usually lies in its ability to lower the loss of natural moisture of body and soothe the redness when applied on irritated skin.

4. Stretch Marks

   While Witch Hazel for skin problems is popular, you can also use Witch Hazel oil for those stretch marks. Applying Witch Hazel regularly on the stretch marks can help you get rid of it completed. You need to apply the cream directly on the stretch marks and place a towel soaked in warm water on the marks to see amazing results.

5. Helps Deal with Itchy Skin

   People with dry and itchy skin must include Witch Hazel for skin problems they have. It is very effective in treating itchy skin problems. Apart from chickenpox, it also helps treat skin conditions like poison ivy, eczema, bug bites and other itchy skin conditions. You need to prepare a solution of Witch Hazel oil and lavender oil and apply the solution on the affected areas of your skin and leave it for 30-40 minutes and wash it with lukewarm water.

6. Tightens the Pores

   Since Witch Hazel is rich in astringent properties, it can easily tighten your skin pores. The tannins present in the extract of Witch Hazel is also helps to tone the skin and tighten the pores by eliminating the bacteria and excessive oils from the skin.

7. Treats Minor Cuts and Bruises

   Apart from using Witch Hazel for skin problems, you can also use it effectively to stop bleeding from cuts or bruises on your skin. It speeds up the healing of injuries. The alcohol present in the Witch Hazel oil works as an effective agent to treat the minor wounds and cuts on the skin. Apply the Witch Hazel oil directly on the cuts and bruises and apply pressure for some time until the bleeding steps completely.

8. Reversing Skin Aging

   The Witch Hazel extract is rich in anti-oxidants and it is clinically approved to prevent and reverse the aging of the skin. The tannins present in Witch Hazel is also helpful in killing the free radicals which are a primary cause of premature aging of skin. After washing your face and removing makeup, you can apply Witch Hazel as cream or oil on face every day to help delay the aging process of the skin.

9. Treats Psoriasis on Skin

   The use of Witch Hazel for skin problems also includes treatment of psoriasis. Psoriasis is the skin condition that can turn your skin extremely flaky and dry. Witch Hazel can efficiently decrease the swelling and inflammation of the skin and treat this skin condition naturally. You need to prepare a solution with Witch Hazel oil and glycerin and apply the solution on the affected area regularly and massage it for some time. The mixture will keep the skin moisturized and hydrated and prevent the flakiness and dryness of skin.

10. Varicose Veins

    Owing to the anti-inflammatory properties of Witch Hazel, it can temporarily decrease the severity of pain and swelling which is associated with varicose veins. Varicose veins can cause moderate to mild pain, skin ulcers, soreness, blood clots and other issues. The high level of tannins found in Witch Hazel can help promote a protective layer on top of the skin and this layer constricts the blood vessels by improving the flow of blood within the skin. It also smoothes different layers of epidermis, which helps boost the flow of blood in the skin tissues.

11. Other Uses of Witch Hazel

    Apart from Witch Hazel for skin problems, it can also be used against a variety of germs like Candida, Staph and viruses like influenza and herpes viruses. It can also be used moderately as non-irritating skin toner to eliminate the excessive skin oils.

    These were some of the effective use of Witch Hazel for skin problems. However, it is necessary to consult their dermatologist prior to using Witch Hazel for their skin conditions. While this is a natural and home remedy for skin problems, serious skin conditions must be addressed by medical professionals. If you observe any side effects after using Witch Hazel, it is recommended to stop using Witch Hazel and seek medical attention immediately.