What it is
Hamamelis virginiana extract is derived from the leaves, bark, or twigs of the North American witch hazel shrub and is rich in tannins and other polyphenols. In cosmetic formulas it is valued as an astringent-type conditioning botanical that can give a toned, refreshed skin feel. It appears in many toners and lightweight sunscreens.
Safety & warnings
Witch hazel extract is usually well tolerated, but its tannin content can be mildly astringent and, in alcohol-based preparations, potentially drying or irritating for very sensitive or reactive skin. The water-based or distilled forms used in many formulas are generally gentler.
Origin & sourcing
Natural. It is extracted from the leaves, bark, or twigs of Hamamelis virginiana, native to eastern North America.
History
Witch hazel has a long history of traditional topical use in North America and was adopted into commercial skin-care preparations well before modern cosmetic formulation.
Questions everyone asks
What is witch hazel extract used for?
It is used as an astringent-type conditioning botanical that can give skin a toned, refreshed feel, commonly in toners and lightweight products.
Can witch hazel be drying?
Its tannins are mildly astringent, and alcohol-containing forms may be drying for sensitive skin, though water-based forms tend to be gentler.