Do dermatologists recommend witch hazel?
Lily Fisher
Updated on May 15, 2026
A 2015 study in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic Investigative Dermatology examined a topical gel containing witch hazel and found it was safe and effective for treating sensitive or irritated facial skin—finding the formulation "non-stinging, non-irritating, and non-comedogenic." However, the ingredient should still be ...
Why you shouldn't use witch hazel?
Aside from the key substance (tannins), many witch hazel products contain alcohol ingredients (like ethanol) that over-dry the skin and sometimes do more harm than good. Some variations can have up to 15 percent alcohol, which might be irritating to certain skin types like people with dry, acne-prone or sensitive skin.Why do dermatologists not like witch hazel?
Though witch hazel may improve oily skin initially, Dr. Chwalek cautions that the ingredient could damage the barrier function of skin over time if used in excess. Also, she explains that one of the antioxidant components of witch hazel includes naturally occurring polyphenols, or tannins, which can over-dry the skin.Do dermatologists recommend witch hazel toner?
Dermatologists give the toner their seal of approval"Witch hazel is a botanical ingredient used in skin care for its astringent effects on the skin," he said. "It can effectively remove oil from the skin to improve shine and minimize the appearance of pores, and may help soothe inflammation."
Is witch hazel making my skin worse?
Due to its astringent properties, frequent witch hazel use can dry and irritate the skin. People with dry or sensitive skin should use witch hazel sparingly or avoid it entirely. Dry and irritated skin can start to produce more oil, which can lead to more acne breakouts.IS WITCH HAZEL GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN? | DR DRAY
What are the pros and cons of witch hazel?
Witch hazel has many benefits for skin, including relieving inflammation, tightening pores, and helping with razor bumps. It may also help reduce acne, since it can cleanse your skin of excess oil. However, witch hazel should not be used by people with dry or extremely sensitive skin since it can cause irritation.Can witch hazel clog pores?
That's because witch hazel is an astringent, which means that it temporarily causes your skin and your pores to contract, Zeichner says, which "gives a temporary tightening feeling to the skin." This is because witch hazel contains tannins, which are chemicals that compress the proteins in your skin.What are the side effects of witch hazel?
In some people, it might cause minor skin irritation. Witch hazel is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when small doses are taken by mouth. In some people, witch hazel might cause stomach upset when taken by mouth. Large doses might cause liver problems.Can I use witch hazel on my face everyday?
Witch hazel is safe to use on your face daily, however, it also depends on how your skin reacts to it. If your skin feels dry and stretchy, use it every alternate day, those with oily skin can use it every day.Will witch hazel clear up acne?
Witch hazel can be used on its own or found within skin care products such as toners. While it can't cure acne on its own, it can dry up oil and shrink blemishes in addition to relieving symptoms such as inflammation, redness and irritation. Witch hazel is easy to incorporate into your skin care routine.How often should I use witch hazel on my face?
In general, Dr. Shamban says you can use your witch hazel toner anywhere from twice a week to every day, depending on how your skin responds. But when it comes to an alcohol-based astringent, don't overdo it.Is Thayers Witch Hazel bad for skin?
Yes, witch hazel is good and can provide excellent benefits to any skin type when used correctly as part of a daily routine. Witch Hazel is the hero ingredient in facial toners because it does an excellent job at removing excess sebum without being harsh enough to strip the skin of its natural oils.Is witch hazel safe to use on face?
Overall, witch hazel is proven as safe for the skin. The caveat is that witch hazel, like anything else applied to your skin, may not work for everyone. If you're trying out witch hazel for the first time, it's a good idea to test it out in a small area of skin away from your face, such as the inside of your arm.Can I use witch hazel on my private parts?
WITCH HAZEL (WICH hey zuhl) is a botanical astringent from the plant Hamamelis virginiana. The wipes and pads are used to relieve itching, burning, and irritation caused by hemorrhoids or bowel movements. They may also be used to clean the outer vaginal area after childbirth or the rectal area following rectal surgery.Which witch hazel is best?
- Best Overall: Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Rose Water Toner. ...
- Best Drugstore: Dickinson's Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner with Rosewater. ...
- Best Classic: THAYERS Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera Toner. ...
- Best Nose Strips: Biore Deep Cleansing Pore Strips. ...
- Best for Normal to Combination Skin: Belif Witch Hazel Herbal Extract Toner.