The Resurgence of Witch Hazel: A Prominent Return

Just the mention of “witch hazel” can cause a slight sting. In its purest form, witch hazel has been historically used as a skin-tightening astringent to make pores appear smaller and remove excess oil, according to dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD, a clinical instructor of dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York City. However, this astringent effect was sometimes too powerful, as those who grew up in the ’90s or early ’00s will remember from the red and flaky skin that resulted from its use. “Its astringent properties work by removing moisture from the skin,” explains Perry Romanowski, a cosmetic chemist and co-host of the Beauty Brains podcast. “While some people enjoy this sensation, others may find it to be too intense.”

In recent months, something interesting has been happening with witch hazel. It seems like this humble flowering shrub, which has long been known for its beneficial properties, is now getting a lot more attention in the world of skincare. We’ve witnessed a wave of new products utilizing witch hazel that can be used on all types of skin. This sudden surge in popularity has given witch hazel a whole new level of acceptance and appreciation. It’s exciting to see such a versatile ingredient gaining traction and becoming a key player in the skincare industry.

Introducing the Masters: Get ready to discover the crème de la crème of knowledge! We’ve assembled a crack team of seasoned professionals who are passionate about their craft. These remarkable individuals possess an unparalleled depth of expertise in their respective fields. But hold on, there’s more! Not only are they masters of their trade, but they are also exceptional communicators. Their words have the power to captivate and enlighten, leaving you spellbound. So, get ready to dive into a world of infinite wisdom as we unveil our lineup of experts who will guide you on a journey like no other. Are you prepared to be blown away by their extraordinary skills and experiences?

The use of astringent elements in skincare products dates back to the 1800s, although their medicinal properties were recognized by Native American communities long before then. Witch hazel, derived from the winter-blooming Hamamelis virginiana plant native to North America, is the main component used in skincare. This potent ingredient is extracted by soaking or steam distilling the leaves, stem, and bark of the plant, resulting in a clear and fragrant liquid. Nowadays, it is commonly used in the production of toners specifically designed for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, providing them with a refreshing and clarifying effect.

In the not-so-distant past, witch hazel products were pretty straightforward, consisting solely of pure witch hazel. There were no variations in strength, like mild, medium, or hot options, so to speak. However, things have changed, and the latest formulations are significantly more advanced and offer personalized customization.

Dr. Kavita Mariwalla, a renowned dermatologist from West Islip, NY and an advocate for Dickinson’s, assures us that witch hazel is not just an old-fashioned remedy used by our grandmothers. With new innovations and versatile applications, this age-old ingredient has become a must-have for the present generation. By incorporating a toner infused with active ingredients into your daily skincare routine, you can effectively address specific skin concerns. As we age, our skincare needs evolve as well, and there is a noticeable gap in the market when it comes to mature skin. This is where witch hazel truly shines. While many products on the market focus solely on retinol or anti-aging components, witch hazel provides a soothing and redness-reducing alternative that is gentle on the skin. This makes it an invaluable addition to your skincare arsenal as you navigate the aging process.

Dr. Julie Russak, a renowned dermatologist based in New York City who is certified by the board, believes that witch hazel should be recognized for more than just its ability to control oil and treat acne. According to her, this plant has long been known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it highly beneficial for various skin concerns. Its versatile nature allows it to reduce redness, heal insect bites, and provide relief for folliculitis. Dr. Russak emphasizes the numerous positive effects that witch hazel has on the skin.

When we interviewed various individuals, they all shared the same sentiment: we have only just begun to tap into the full potential of witch hazel. Toners are just the tip of the iceberg. According to Dr. Henry, there’s a growing fascination among consumers with the effectiveness of witch hazel as an ingredient, prompting them to seek its presence in all aspects of their skincare routine. It won’t be long before we witness its integration in antioxidant-packed creams and anti-dandruff hair products. The possibilities are endless, and the demand is only set to increase as we continue to unravel the wonders of this remarkable ingredient.

In the world of social media, TikTok has become a platform where trends come and go, and lately, one such trend has emerged surrounding witch hazel. This versatile product has caught the attention of millions of users, generating an impressive 69 million views. Clearly, it has struck a chord with numerous individuals. Even well-established brands like Humphreys, Thayers, and Dickinson’s have jumped on the bandwagon, revamping their tried and true formulas to tackle the issue of dryness. These brands have been around for ages, with Thayers launching their witch hazel toner way back in 1847 and Dickinson’s not far behind in 1866. Their commitment to innovation shows that they understand the needs of their consumers and are willing to adapt to meet them.

During the previous summer, Thayers introduced a superbly moisturizing sibling to their widely acclaimed facial toner, aptly titled the Hydrating Milky Toner. Formulated with the natural wonders of snow mushroom and hyaluronic acid, this magical elixir boasts the remarkable ability to keep your skin hydrated for up to a whopping 48 hours. Not only does it deeply nourish and moisturize, but it also fortifies your skin’s protective moisture barrier, making it a heavenly choice for those with sensitive or reactive skin. According to the renowned Dr. Henry, hyaluronic acid is truly a wonder molecule that possesses the incredible capacity to retain an astonishing 1,000 times its own weight in water. This means that it actively combats the potentially drying effect of witch hazel, ensuring your skin remains beautifully supple and moisturized. Furthermore, the addition of snow mushroom, a powerful humectant, further amplifies the moisturizing prowess of this phenomenal toner as it diligently attracts and retains moisture on your skin’s surface.

Dickinson’s, on the other hand, has introduced a whole array of exciting innovations that combine their witch hazel, which is sourced from mature bark and twigs, with specific ingredients in toner-serum blends designed to address different skin concerns. Their collection includes a Brightening Toner + Serum that incorporates grapefruit and vitamin C for a radiant complexion, as well as a Hydrating Toner + Serum formulated with hyaluronic acid and rose water, which is known for its soothing properties and moisturizing effects. “If you’re not excessively dry and want to achieve a subtle glow, rose water is an excellent choice,” suggests Dr. Henry. Completing the Toner + Serum trio is a Clearing formula featuring eucalyptus, salicylic acid, and niacinamide, a highly versatile ingredient that serves various purposes such as combating acne, brightening the skin, and reducing wrinkles. “The specific benefits depend on the formulation, but in combination with witch hazel, it can effectively soothe any potential irritation,” explains Romanowski. Dr. Mariwalla, a proud Dickinson’s brand ambassador, further adds, “In this formulation, niacinamide not only minimizes pore size but also targets hyperpigmentation and enhances the skin’s radiance.”

Introducing the latest addition to the brand’s lineup is a revolutionary micellar makeup remover that effortlessly removes dirt and impurities, all while pampering your skin with the soothing power of aloe and witch hazel. Our new and improved aloe-infused Clarifying Witch Hazel Cleansing Pads are also making a splash, offering a quick and convenient solution to cleanse and nourish your skin in just one swipe. Whether you’re dealing with irritated or inflamed skin, aloe’s calming properties will work their magic, providing a much-needed dose of hydration. Dr. Henry himself confirms its effectiveness, emphasizing its suitability for those seeking relief from skin troubles. Moreover, our witch hazel pads are perfect for targeting hard-to-reach areas like the chest or back. So, why settle for less when you can experience the rejuvenating benefits of this dynamic duo?

Traditional brands have been enhancing their long-standing formulas, while new brands are also embracing witch hazel. For instance, Kim Kardashian’s SKKN by Kim Toner incorporates witch hazel water and niacinamide to counterbalance the exfoliating effects of fruit enzymes and alpha-hydroxy acids, resulting in a complexion that is smooth and revitalized. Another option is Garance Doré and Emily Yeston’s Doré Le Cleanser, which combines witch hazel leaf water with white lily and goji berry extract for a gentle cleanse that refreshes without stripping away vital moisture. Additionally, there is the esteemed toner specialist Mario Badescu, known for their brand that offers a witch hazel and rosewater blend as well as a lavender-infused variation, both of which provide a soothing and balancing boost after cleansing.

And yes, witch hazel isn’t just limited to the face anymore, as it’s becoming increasingly popular in haircare products. For example, Ceremonia has created the Champú de Yucca & Witch Hazel, which utilizes the plant to gently control oil on the scalp. Similarly, Briogeo has developed the Blossom + Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Spray, which takes this same idea and transforms it into a convenient spray that combines witch hazel and lemon extract to absorb excess oil. Additionally, it contains maltodextrin, a natural sugar starch that coats each hair strand, visibly enhancing fullness, and biotin, which strengthens the hair shaft.

Did you ever wish you could immerse yourself in the glorious essence of witch hazel? Well, your wish has come true! Susanne Kaufmann’s luxurious Witch Hazel Bath oil is a treat for your skin, providing nourishment and calming any irritations. This product is so incredible that witch hazel has lost its sting. So go ahead and indulge in the soothing embrace of this minimalist chic bath oil.

Looking for some fascinating tales about the latest skin-care trends? Well, you’re in the right place! Here, we’ve got a collection of captivating stories that delve into the world of skin care. Get ready to explore a variety of topics, ranging from the newest and most innovative products to the tried-and-true techniques that keep your skin looking its best. So, why wait? Dive into these engrossing narratives and discover the secrets to a radiant and flawless complexion.

Get ready to see Jennifer Aniston’s hilarious reactions to the latest TikTok trends! This amazing video showcases her spontaneity and fun-loving nature as she dives into the world of viral dances and challenges. Prepare to be entertained by her relatable sense of humor and genuine enthusiasm. It’s like hanging out with your coolest, most down-to-earth friend who’s always up for a good time. So sit back, relax, and let Jennifer Aniston take you on a wild TikTok ride that will leave you laughing and wanting more!

Want the latest beauty scoop delivered straight to your inbox? Then, get in on the action by following Allure on Instagram and Twitter or subscribing to our newsletter. We’ve got you covered with a daily dose of captivating beauty stories that will leave you in awe. Don’t miss out on our entertaining and informative content – it’s like having a friendly beauty expert at your fingertips!