The 14 incredible benefits of a witch hazel toner (and how to use them!)

Double, double, toil and trouble. Fire burns and cauldron bubbles. Witch hazel sounds like something that would be used in a potion or spell, right?

But you probably didn’t realize that it’s a very popular ingredient in skincare products—especially facial toners—and for good reason. 

Imagine a single ingredient that calms, clears, and revitalizes your skin—an ancient remedy whispered through generations of beauty lore and now underlined by comprehensive scientific research.

That’s the magic we’re about to explore with the benefits of witch hazel toner, nature’s powerful skincare elixir. 

Let’s embark on this journey together, unfolding the layers of witch hazel and discovering how it can illuminate and rejuvenate your complexion naturally. Welcome to your path to radiant, healthy skin!

What is witch hazel?

Witch hazel, or Hamamelis virginiana, is a flowering shrub native to North America, adorned with delicate yellow blooms. It was first discovered by Native Americans, who found a way to extract oils from the bark.

The name “witch hazel” may derive from “wich,” a Middle English word for “flexible,” nodding to the shrub’s bendy branches.

According to the annals of scientific research, witch hazel’s effectiveness comes from its tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils. Tannins give the plant its astringent power, which is crucial for tightening skin, reducing inflammation, and minimizing oiliness and pores for a smoother complexion. 

Flavonoids and other polyphenols amplify their profile with antioxidant properties, safeguarding the skin against free radicals and environmental damage. Despite its potency, witch hazel is remarkably gentle and suitable for even sensitive skin.

Witch hazel has been used in medicinal practices for several skin conditions for centuries. It has been a staple across cultures, valued for its effectiveness and accessibility.

Today, the modern skincare community and board-certified dermatologists are increasingly embracing its medicinal properties.

Unlocking the Magic: Benefits of a Witch Hazel Toner

From soothing inflamed skin to balancing oil production and offering a shield against environmental damage, witch hazel facial toners are a skincare revolution in one powerhouse ingredient.

How do we use it to maximum effect? Let’s count the ways (and you don’t even have to wash your face with it from a silver bowl at full moon!)

Pore Perfecter

The high level of tannins (which strengthens pore walls) in witch hazel extract makes it great for soothing and reducing the appearance of enlarged pores. Regular application can lead to visibly tighter and more refined skin, contributing to a smooth, porcelain-like texture. 

Balancing Act

Witch hazel is unique in its ability to balance the skin’s moisture. For those with oily skin, it helps regulate surface oil production without over-drying.

Meanwhile, it maintains hydration for those with dry skin, ensuring a delicate balance that refreshes and comforts skin.

Soothing Inflammation

Numerous scientific studies have confirmed that witch hazel is rich in compounds such as gallic acid and tannins, which excel at diminishing inflammation and soothing the skin.

Its natural anti-inflammatory qualities effectively combat skin irritations, including environmental stress, acne-related redness, and under-eye puffiness. 

The gentle nature of witch hazel makes it appropriate for all skin types, even the most sensitive. This mildness is fundamental to its role in skincare. It serves as an effective topical remedy for inflammation-driven conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Soothe Sunburns

More benefits of a witch hazel toner? Treating a sunburn with witch hazel will lessen healing time and prevent the infamous skin peeling and flaking. And it’s simple — just spread a thin coat of (alcohol-free) witch hazel on the ‘burn. It will both cool and soothe.

Acne Control

Witch hazel can relieve acne-prone skin. Its astringent and antiseptic properties help tighten the skin and reduce inflammation, making it a formidable foe against breakouts. 

Research shows that witch hazel facial toner keeps the skin clear and smooth by controlling excess oil and minimizing the appearance of pores, which is why it is found in many over-the-counter acne treatments.

Tone the Complexion

Unlike many harsh astringents that contain chemical ingredients, witch hazel toners naturally firm the skin without making your face feel too tight. It also helps reduce irritation and redness while having a cooling touch that leaves you feeling refreshed.

Reduces Skin Irritation

Witch hazel is medically lauded for its ability to soothe irritation from inflamed, irritated, or broken skin. It has also been shown to help with erythema—a reddening of the skin caused by injury or irritation—by as much as 27% when applied topically.

Regular use can lead to less reactive and more even-toned skin, providing a soothing and gentle solution for sensitive or troubled complexions.

Slow Down Premature Skin Aging

The environment can be harsh, but witch hazel provides a natural protective barrier. Rich in antioxidants, it helps to neutralize free radicals and minimize damage from pollutants and UV exposure. This not only helps to prevent premature aging but also maintains the health and vitality of the skin.

Refresh Tired Eyes

No, the benefits of a witch hazel toner do NOT come by squirting witch hazel in them, but by soaking a clean rag in witch hazel and cold water and placing the compress over your closed eyes for 10 minutes.

The anti-inflammatory effects (which make witch hazel one of the magic ingredients in Preparation H) will help relieve strained, puffy, or red eyes.

Heal a Bruise Faster

Been in a fight recently? Well, maybe not. But if you bang your leg or arm and are left with a nasty bruise, a thrice-daily dab of witch hazel facial toner can help speed up the healing time. It also disinfects cuts, cracked skin, and blisters. 

Soothe (Or Prevent) Razor Burn

Another one of witch hazel’s uses? The anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel stop itchy razor bumps from forming around irritated hair follicles. Apply before or after shaving — this goes for both ladies and gentlemen.

Varicose Vein Relief

Soak washcloths in witch hazel and lay them on your legs to reduce pain and swelling from varicose veins. Witch hazel helps tighten the veins, temporarily relieving discomfort.

Soothe Poison Ivy and Poison Oak

Just like acne and blemishes, witch hazel reduces itching and relieves swelling. It also soothes bug bites and other minor skin irritations found in nature. It’s definitely worth packing on your next picnic or camping trip!

Enhancing Other Skincare

Witch hazel’s benefits extend beyond its standalone use. Toning the skin allows for better absorption of serums and moisturizers, ensuring you get the most out of your skincare investments.

The Gentle Touch: How to Use Witch Hazel Toner

Here’s how you can harness the full potential of witch hazel facial toner in your daily skincare routine for radiant, healthy skin.

Choose the Right Product

Begin by selecting a high-quality witch hazel toner. Look for pure, alcohol-free options for the most gentle and effective care.

Some formulations are infused with additional natural ingredients like rose water or aloe vera, which can offer extra soothing and hydrating benefits. 

The five best options, according to experts (click on the name to buy): 

Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner: The OG witch hazel toner debuted in 1847 and is still goingstrong! Known for its gentle formula, Thayers’ toner combines witch hazel extract with soothing aloe vera and rosewater. It’s a popular choice for its skin-softening properties and refreshing fragrance.

Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner: This classic toner is 100% natural and promises to refine pores, remove and control oil, soothe irritation, and maintain the skin’s natural balance.

Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Rosewater Toner: This toner from Mario Badescu combines witch hazel with rosewater and aloe to rejuvenate and clarify skin while maintaining a natural moisture balance.

Humphreys Clarify Witch Hazel Organic Toner: This certified organic witch hazel toner purifies, soothes, and treats skin without over-drying. It’s free from alcohol and fragrance, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.

Quinn’s Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner: Quinn’s formula includes aloe vera and cucumber along with witch hazel. It is alcohol-free and boasts a gentle yet effective approach to clarifying and soothing the skin.

Cleanse Your Skin

Before applying witch hazel, make sure your skin is clean and free from impurities. This prepares your skin to absorb the toner’s benefits fully.

How to Apply

Soak a cotton ball with witch hazel toner and gently sweep it across your face, paying particular attention to the T-zone and any areas prone to oiliness or breakouts. Avoid harsh rubbing; let the natural astringent properties do their work. 

Timing is Key

The best times to apply witch hazel toner are in the morning to freshen and prepare your skin for the day and at night after cleansing to remove any lingering impurities and soothe the skin as it repairs overnight. Adjust the frequency according to your skin’s needs and response.

Follow with Moisturizer

For best results, follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. A witch hazel facial toner balances the skin’s pH and prepares it to absorb the benefits of your moisturizer more effectively.

Does a Witch Hazel Facial Toner Have Any Side Effects?

Overall, witch hazel is a very safe ingredient for the skin.

In fact, a study in the Clinical, Cosmetic, Investigative Dermatology journal has concluded that topical gels containing this plant extract are “non-stinging, non-irritating and non-comedogenic,” which makes them safe and effective for treating even sensitive or irritated facial skin.

However, many witch hazel products are usually diluted in high levels of alcohol. While alcohol is not always bad, higher concentrations can dry out the skin too much or aggravate a sensitive complexion.

Solution? If you have dry, inflamed, or sensitive skin, look for pure witch hazel facial toner or a formulation that comes without alcohol and with extra moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera (Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera has cult status!) or botanicals (my forever pick: Mario Badescu Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial Toner with Lavender).

Remember: Even though witch hazel is a gentle and natural remedy, it’s always wise to perform a patch test before introducing it into your routine, especially if you have sensitive skin. Apply a small amount to a discreet area and wait 24 hours to ensure no adverse reactions.

Do you currently use a witch hazel toner in your skincare regimen?