Should Witch Hazel be used as a facial toner?

Witch Hazel is commonly known as one of the ways to treat skin conditions or facial effects in place of traditional astringents or toners. But the availability and wide availability of Witch Hazel doesn't necessarily mean that the ingredient is safe for your skin. Let's learn more about the claims regarding Witch Hazel and see if this product is healthy for you to try.

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), also known as witch hazel, is a shrub native to the United States and has been used for centuries as a remedy for a number of skin irritations and inflammations. Today, you can see pure witch hazel in pharmacies as a cleansing tincture. Even some over-the-counter creams and ointments contain witch hazel, such as those used for bites or hemorrhoids.
When applied to the skin, witch hazel toner has the ability to soothe irritation, damage and inflammation. Some of the most common uses include acne, inflammatory conditions, and sunburn.

2.1 Acne Treatment While it doesn't work for certain types of acne, such as cystic acne and inflammatory pustules, witch hazel can also be beneficial for non-inflammatory acne like blackheads and whiteheads .
How witch hazel works as an astringent by drying out your blemishes. It's the same with other over-the-counter drug treatments. Part of this process has to do with the active tannins in witch hazel. These plant-based compounds also have antioxidant effects.
2.2 Cure Inflammatory Skin Conditions In addition to treating acne, Witch Hazel can also be beneficial in treating other types of skin inflammation, such as psoriasis and eczema. The effect of witch hazel is to reduce the underlying skin inflammation and make the rash reactions more visible.
Witch hazel has also been shown to be safe when applied to the scalp. Witch Hazel can also help reduce eye bags. However, it should not be applied directly to the eyes because otherwise you may get burned.

2.3 Burns Witch Hazel has long been used as a treatment for sunburn. However, witch hazel is not the right sunscreen.
Witch Hazel can be effective in treating other types of minor skin burns such as chemical burns. This can even be a safe method for razor burn if you experience post-shave irritation.
To use witch hazel for skin burns, apply the solution to a soft cloth or stiff paper towel and then gently press on the burn. Be careful not to rub, as this can cause further irritation. For scalp burns, witch hazel has been shown to be helpful for both men and women. Witch Hazel can be applied directly to the scalp in the shower, or you can mix a small amount with your regular shampoo.

2.4 Other uses Witch Hazel is also sometimes used for the following:
Treat bruises Cure bug bites Treat cuts and wounds Treat diaper rash Hemorrhoids heal various burns

Although witch hazel can help treat a number of skin conditions, results have varied regarding its effectiveness. For example, witch hazel may not be potent enough to treat eczema. Part of the problem is that while witch hazel can reduce skin inflammation, it doesn't eliminate the itchiness associated with these types of rashes.
Research on witch hazel also has mixed results. For example, the use of witch hazel for acne mostly gives positive results, but some users report that their skin is excessively dry and the acne is even worse. Because these claims are situational, it is difficult to know if witch hazel has these side effects and how long they will last. It should also be noted that the majority of research articles demonstrating the benefits of witch hazel are based solely on topical use. For example, there is no evidence that witch hazel can help the body when taken in capsules, and there is no evidence that witch hazel can treat anti-aging problems with fine lines. wrinkles and varicose veins.

Overall, witch hazel is proven to be safe for the skin. But be aware, it may not work for everyone. If you're trying witch hazel for the first time, you should test it on a small area of ​​skin away from your face, such as the inside of your arm. If you don't see any redness, rash or dryness after a few days, you can try them on your face.
Additionally, witch hazel may not be recommended for certain skin conditions such as rosacea or very dry skin. You should also use it with caution if you have sensitive skin.
Remember, although witch hazel is a natural ingredient, this does not mean it is right for everyone. Additionally, some over-the-counter formulations may contain additional ingredients that can irritate the skin, such as alcohol.
Finally, talk to a dermatologist for advice on how to handle any skin condition. Doctors can determine which products are effective and safe for you. Or regularly visit the website of Vinmec International General Hospital for more information on other beauty issues.

Reference source: healthline.com