When Do Dermatologists Recommend Witch Hazel for Skin?

When you look back through the mists of the past, you see that witch hazel is a natural ingredient that’s been used for centuries to treat irritated skin. Some swear by witch hazel for skin for its soothing effects, while others worry about its potential for it to dry out or sting the skin’s surface. 

So what’s the deal? Do dermatologists actually recommend witch hazel for skin care? The answer is affirmative, but it’s only in certain circumstances.

What Is Witch Hazel for Skin, and How Does It Work?

Essentially, witch hazel comes from the leaves and bark of the Hamamelis virginiana plant, and it contains lots of tannins (which have natural skin-tightening properties), and that means it can help tighten skin, reduce oiliness, and calm inflammation. Witch hazel for skin also contains antioxidants that can help support skin that’s recovering from minor irritations.

Thanks to its innate properties, witch hazel is often used to deal with insect bites, razor bumps, mild and general skin discomfort. Sure, it’s not a cure-all, but in the right formulation, it can be a gentle and effective way to reduce itching, redness, and irritation.

So, When Might a Dermatologist Recommend It?

Most dermatologists won’t recommend pure or alcohol-heavy witch hazel toners, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Why? Well, because on its own, witch hazel can have a tendency to strip away too much oil, leaving the skin feeling tight or a little dehydrated.

However, when it’s included as an ingredient of say, an anti-itch lotion, witch hazel can offer real benefits. Products that pair witch hazel with things like menthol, aloe vera, or lightweight emollients can help deliver targeted relief without overdrying the skin. It really is a case of having the best of both worlds. 

These types of formulations are often recommended for:

• Post-workout or post-sun exposure irritation
• Itchy, irritated skin caused by dryness or shaving
• Insect bites or minor skin discomfort
• Mild heat rashes or body itch

In these situations, a cooling anti-itch lotion with witch hazel and menthol can be exactly what’s needed to calm the skin and make it comfortable once again. It might also allow you to steer clear of greasy ointments and steroidal creams. 

What to Look for in a Skin-Soothing Witch Hazel Formula

So, if you’re thinking about adding a witch hazel product for your own skin relief, you should look for a product that also includes:

• Menthol, for immediate cooling and temporary itch relief
• Aloe vera, to hydrate and soothe the skin’s surface
• Non-greasy moisturisers, to help reinforce the skin barrier

Also, avoid formulas that list alcohol as a main ingredient, and be sure to look for options labeled as ‘suitable for sensitive skin’ or ‘sensitive skin-friendly’.

Using Witch Hazel for Skin For Better Health

Witch hazel certainly has a place in modern skincare, but it’s not as a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it should be seen as a helpful ingredient for certain issues. As such, dermatologists may recommend it when it’s part of a balanced formula that cools, hydrates, and soothes without stripping the skin.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a good product for dealing with itchy, scratchy, inflamed skin a witch hazel-infused lotion could be exactly what you’re looking for. The fact that it’s also a natural astringent is just a bonus.