Witch hazel is a plant found in North America and parts of Asia, known for its skin-soothing properties. You might have seen witch hazel extract listed in many beauty and health products because it’s great for speeding up healing, preventing aging signs, stopping cellular damage that can lead to skin cancer, and killing bacteria in your pores.

The bark, twigs, and leaves of the witch hazel plant are used to make an extract, usually added to water or alcohol to create distilled witch hazel extract or witch hazel water. The tannins in witch hazel help remove excess oil from the skin, making it a top choice for natural acne treatments found in various washes and gels.

Witch hazel is rich in polyphenols, compounds used in anti-aging supplements to slow down diseases. As a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, it protects against DNA damage by fighting free radicals.

Here are some reasons to use witch hazel on your face and skin:

1. Fight Acne
Acne can be troublesome at any age, and witch hazel is one of the best remedies. This natural astringent reduces inflammation, oil, and redness, and helps balance the skin’s pH level. It also speeds up the healing of scars and infections. Applying witch hazel with a cotton ball up to a few times a day can prevent acne from worsening and help it heal faster. Including it in your cleansing routine can also remove excess dirt and oil, leaving your skin smoother and tighter.

2. Nourish Dry Skin
Witch hazel is not just for oily skin; it’s great for dry skin too. It removes unwanted oils and impurities while nourishing the skin with moisturizing properties. Using witch hazel after a shower can help seal in moisture, especially beneficial during winter months.

3. Reduce Puffy Eyes
Puffy eyes can be caused by various factors like allergies or stress. Witch hazel tightens the skin, reducing under-eye bags and puffiness. Soak cotton balls with witch hazel, apply to closed eyes, and let it sit for about five minutes. For better results, store witch hazel in the refrigerator.

4. Treat Lips, Gums, and Inner Cheeks
Witch hazel can speed up the healing of blisters on lips, inner cheeks, or gums. It’s safe for use inside the mouth to treat sores, infections, and blisters. Combining it with coconut oil can also help with bad breath.

5. Relieve Sunburn Discomfort
Witch hazel soothes sunburned skin, speeding up healing and preventing peeling. Spritz it on the affected area or apply a soaked cotton pad for instant relief.

6. Minimize Sun Damage and Fight Aging
Excessive sun exposure can lead to premature aging. Witch hazel helps slow down signs like wrinkles and discoloration, and protects against skin cancer. Combining it with soothing oils like frankincense can enhance its protective effects.

7. Treat Eczema
Witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory properties can alleviate eczema symptoms like itching, redness, and burning. Applying it twice a day or using a mask made of French green clay and witch hazel can provide immediate relief.

8. Refresh Your Face
Feeling tired or stressed? Witch hazel can refresh your face. Keep it in a spray bottle and spritz it on to remove excess dirt and oil while soothing your skin. For tired eyes, soak a cloth in witch hazel and cold water and place it over closed eyes for about 10 minutes.

9. Soothe Razor Burn
Witch hazel can prevent and soothe razor burn thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Apply it before or after shaving to stop those itchy bumps.

10. Heal Cuts and Bruises
Witch hazel speeds up the healing of bruises and minor cuts. Apply it three times a day to reduce swelling and heal faster. It’s often referred to as nature’s Neosporin for its ability to cleanse cuts, protect against infection, and promote quicker healing.

Witch hazel is a versatile and effective natural remedy for various skin issues, making it a must-have in your skincare routine.