Although the name may sound scary to some, witch hazel can work wonders to treat skin problems like acne. The extracts of this herbal plant display astringent and disinfectant properties, which is found to be effective to clear acne. Here’s more…
Apart from clearing acne, witch hazel may also work to treat hemorrhoids.
When you find that expensive skin creams are only making your hard-earned money disappear, and not your acne, it’s time that you opt for a natural remedy like witch hazel. Acne, that is marked by the formation of pimples, blackheads, and enlarged pores, is often perceived as a difficult-to-treat skin problem. However, with the right treatment, such as the application of witch hazel products, it won’t take much time to get rid of this irritating problem.
Witch hazel, a small shrub primarily found in North America and Japan, has long been used in traditional medicine for its skin-friendly benefits. The twigs, leaves, and the bark display medicinal qualities. A preparation made from these extracts is found to be effective for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and acne. Besides, quite a few commercial skin creams contain these herbal extracts, which helps enhance their healing properties.
Although not backed by strong scientific evidence, witch hazel is supported by strong positive word of mouth reviews, which indicate that the herb displays significant anti-acne activity.
Displays Anti-microbial Properties
Witch hazel acts like a natural antiseptic, which means, it can help destroy bacteria-causing acne and also calm acne breakouts.
Natural Astringent
It provides an astringent effect, thanks to its high-tannin content. This astringent property can reduce the size of enlarged pores commonly associated with acne. The astringent qualities of witch hazel help unclog the pores by removing all the dirt that gets accumulated in them. Moreover, tannins act as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, which helps calm down inflamed pimples. The tannin effect may also tighten the acne scars, in turn, contributing to reduce their visibility.
Reduces Sebum Production
It decreases the secretion of sebum, a key factor responsible for causing acne. The reduction in sebum production assists in lowering bacterial population on the skin, which works to combat the symptoms of acne.
Witch hazel products are available in the form of creams, gels, lotions, and liquid tincture. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel is one of the most sought-after remedy to treat acne. For usage, saturate a cotton ball with the liquid solution of witch hazel, and then massage it over the affected area of the skin. There is no need to rinse the area after application. For best results, cleanse the skin with a mild face wash, pat the skin dry, and then rub it over the affected area. Apply the product twice or thrice a day to clear acne at the earliest.
A witch hazel mask can also be effective to soothe acne. The antiseptic properties of the mask are found to be very effective in fighting this problem.
Mask #1
To prepare the mask, firstly take an egg and separate the white from the yolk. Use a balloon whip to whisk the egg white. Now, combine 6 drops of lemon juice and 6 drops of witch hazel to the egg white. Mix it well and slather the mask on the face. Leave it for 15 – 20 minutes, before rinsing it off.
Mask #2
Add a teaspoon of witch hazel to a teaspoon of tea tree oil. Combine two teaspoons of honey with this mixture of antiseptic oils. To enhance the disinfectant properties, combine a few drops of lavender essential oil with this mixture. Now, mash a banana along with egg white, and add it to the mixture to form a thick paste. Spread the paste liberally on the affected area of the skin. Let the mask remain for 15 minutes, and then rinse it off.
Available under the brand name Dickinson’s, a witch hazel toner is also effective to shrink the pores and remove excess sebum. It acts as a gentle cleanser without stripping the skin of its moisture, leaving it refreshed and clean. However, if you are not comfortable applying commercial skin care products, you can always make a toner yourself at home. This homemade skin toner can be applied 2 to 3 times daily.
Toner #1
Combine a tablespoon of dried lavender flowers with a cup of witch hazel. This is followed by mixing 6 drops of lavender oil with the solution. Store the solution in a closed glass jar and let it steep for about a week. Strain the solution so as to remove the dried flowers. The liquid part of the solution collected can be directly applied on the skin.
Toner #2
Mix ¼ cup of alcohol-free witch hazel with ¼ cup of filtered water. Now, add 10 drops of pure rose oil to this mixture. This witch hazel facial toner containing rose oil is also considered to be very effective in treating acne.
To conclude, including witch hazel in your daily skin care regimen will not only assist to get rid of skin problems, but also contribute to maintain healthy skin. Besides using witch hazel, one should drink plenty of water throughout the day and follow a healthy diet to promote skin health.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
