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Witch Hazel for the Skin

Find out what Witch Hazel is, what it does for skin, its benefits and how to add it to your skincare routine

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Witch Hazel: Ingredient for smooth and healthier looking skin

Witch Hazel has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various skin concerns. With its remarkable benefits, it has become a go-to solution for people seeking natural and effective ways to enhance their skin. In this article, we'll explore the numerous advantages of Witch Hazel for skin, its uses and why it's considered a secret ingredient for a radiant complexion.
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What is Witch Hazel?

Witch Hazel, scientifically known as Hamamelis Virginiana, is a flowering shrub native to North America. The extract obtained from its bark, leaves, and twigs is renowned for its therapeutic properties. Hamamelis Virginianal extract is rich in tannins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that make it a versatile addition to your skincare routine. It is a common ingredient in many skincare products such as cleansers, moisturisers, shaving products and more.

 

Is Witch Hazel Good for Skin?

Yes, Witch Hazel is excellent for your skin. Its natural formulation and numerous benefits make it a trusted ally for achieving and maintaining healthier looking, radiant skin. Here are some more reasons why it's a great addition to your skincare regimen:

Benefits of Witch Hazel for Skin

  1. Acne Treatment: Witch Hazel could help reduce pore size, making it harder for dirt and oils to clog pores. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties might help to prevent breakouts by eliminating acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation.

  2. Anti-ageing: Its antioxidant properties help protect your skin from free radical damage, which could lead to premature ageing. Regular use of Witch Hazel might help to minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

  3. Sunburn Relief: Due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, Witch Hazel might help to reduce redness and irritation associated with sunburned skin. However, it's important to note that Witch Hazel alone may not provide complete relief, and it should be used in conjunction with other sunburn remedies such as Aloe Vera gel, cool compresses, and moisturisers. Protecting your skin with SPF is vital for maintaining its health.

  4. Balancing Oil Production: Witch Hazel is also known for its ability to balance sebum production in the skin. Whether you have oily, combination, or dry skin, Witch Hazel could help regulate sebum production, preventing both excessive oiliness and dryness.

  5. Gentle Cleanser: Witch Hazel acts as a gentle yet effective cleanser. It could remove dirt, makeup residue, and impurities from the skin's surface without stripping it of its natural oils. This makes it suitable for daily use in your skincare routine.
Facts Overview

WITCH HAZEL

APPLICATION: Witch Hazel’s natural properties are great for relieving irritation, particularly those associated with shaving. Its anti-inflammatory properties could also help reduce redness and swelling.

ADVANTAGE: It has natural antiseptic qualities, which can assist in disinfecting minor cuts that may occur during shaving, promoting a clean and hygienic shave. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe redness

FEATURES: Witch Hazel is derived from the leaves and bark of the witch hazel plant (Hamamelis virginiana), and it contains tannins, antioxidants, and other compounds that contribute to its healing and moisturising properties.

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How can you combine Witch Hazel with other ingredients?

Witch Hazel is a versatile skincare ingredient that can be combined with various other products to enhance its benefits or address specific skincare concerns. Here are some common ingredients and products you can combine with Witch Hazel:

Hyaluronic Acid: Combining Witch Hazel with Hyaluronic Acid can create a hydrating and plumping serum. Hyaluronic Acid is known for its ability to retain moisture in the skin.

Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera gel can be mixed with Witch Hazel to create a soothing and hydrating solution. This combination is excellent for calming irritated skin, such as sunburn or after shaving.

Rosewater: Mixing Witch Hazel with Rosewater creates a gentle and fragrant toner. Rosewater adds hydration and a pleasant scent, while Witch Hazel tightens pores and balances oil production.

Shaving Skincare routine with Witch Hazel

Cleanse: Start your skincare routine with a facial cleanser to remove impurities, dirt and excess oil. Vitamin E and menthol in NIVEA Sensitive Face Wash can help to unclog pores and prevent breakouts while keeping skin smooth. It also softens the beard for men with facial hair, resulting in a better shave.

Shave: Next, apply NIVEA Sensitive 0% Ultra Glide Shaving Gel to the area you want to shave. A combination of Chamomile and Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) in the gel protects your skin from irritations and provides a close and extra comfortable shave.

Post-shave: Rinse your face or the shaved area with water after shaving. Using a soft towel pat your skin dry, avoiding rubbing as this can irritate the skin. NIVEA MEN Sensitive Post-Shave Balm will help relieve your freshly shaved skin from irritations. The combination of Chamomile and Vitamin E helps alleviate signs of irritation, burning and redness while Witch Hazel provides long-lasting hydration.

Moisturise: And lastly even if you've used an aftershave product, it's a good idea to follow up with a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated. NIVEA Sensitive Face Moisturiser with SPF15 will absorb quickly leaving your skin feeling healthy and well-groomed while also protecting it from UVA and UVB rays.

You can find more of these products containing Witch Hazel in the NIVEA MEN Sensitive range

Discover NIVEA MEN Sensitive range
Summary

Add Witch Hazel to your routine

Witch Hazel is a natural skincare ingredient that offers a multitude of benefits. Its ability to tone, cleanse, soothe and treat various skin concerns makes it a valuable asset in maintaining healthier looking and radiant skin. When used correctly, Witch Hazel can be an essential part of a well-rounded skincare routine, helping you achieve and maintain your desired complexion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Witch Hazel good for?

Witch Hazel can help to tighten and tone the skin, making it beneficial for treating acne, reducing inflammation, and relieving the discomfort of minor skin irritations.

Is Witch Hazel suitable for all skin types?

Yes, Witch Hazel is versatile and can be used for all skin types, including oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin.

When should you not use Witch Hazel?

You should avoid using Witch Hazel if you are allergic to plants in the Hamamelidaceae family, as it can potentially trigger allergic reactions like skin irritation or rash. Additionally, it's advisable not to use Witch Hazel on open wounds or deep cuts, as it may delay the natural healing process or cause further irritation.

Is Witch Hazel good for acne?

Witch hazel has potential benefits for acne due to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which can help soothe redness, control oil production, and cleanse the skin. However, its effectiveness varies from person to person, so it may work well for some but not others.

How should I incorporate Witch Hazel into my skincare routine?

Witch Hazel can be used as a toner, cleanser, or spot treatment. You can apply it to your skin with a cotton ball or pad after cleansing your face or use skincare products that contain Witch Hazel.

Does Witch Hazel have anti-aging benefits?

Witch Hazel contains antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to premature ageing. Regular use can minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Can I use Witch Hazel every day?

Yes, Witch Hazel is gentle enough for daily use in your skincare routine. However, if you have sensitive skin, it's a good idea to start with a patch test and gradually increase usage.