What it is
Witch hazel water is the aqueous distillate obtained from the leaves, bark, or twigs of the Hamamelis virginiana shrub. It is used as a gentle astringent and skin-conditioning agent and often serves as part of the water phase in toning and soothing formulas. Distillates generally contain little to no tannin and may or may not contain added alcohol depending on the grade.
Safety & warnings
Witch hazel water is generally well tolerated, though alcohol-containing distillate grades can be drying or irritating for very sensitive or compromised skin. The water itself is not considered comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; produced by steam distillation of the leaves, bark, or twigs of the witch hazel shrub (Hamamelis virginiana), native to North America.
History
Witch hazel has a long history of traditional topical use in North America, and its distilled water became a common cosmetic and toner ingredient in modern formulations.
Questions everyone asks
What is witch hazel water used for?
It serves as a mild astringent and skin-conditioning agent, often forming part of the water phase in toning and soothing products.
Does witch hazel water contain alcohol?
Some distillate grades include added alcohol while others do not, so the level depends on the specific raw material used.