What Is Witch Hazel and Why Is It Used in Skincare Products for Men?

You should know what you’re putting on your skin. The ingredients in your skincare products get absorbed into your body - for better or worse. So what’s the deal with witch hazel? Should you use skincare products with witch hazel? What is it good for?

What Is Witch Hazel?

Witch hazel is a flowering shrub with gold petals native to North America and Asia. It is sometimes called winter bloom and is regarded for continuing to show off flowers even during the dead of winter.

History of Witch Hazel Use

Humans have been using witch hazel to treat skin and health conditions for centuries. English settlers may have learned of the uses of this plant from Native Americans. Various tribes used the plant for ulcers, sores, sore muscles, dysentery, and colds - amongst other maladies.

Witch hazel sticks were even used to find ground water for wells. According to some witch hazel harvesters in New England, the sticks bend towards subterranean water and can be quite reliable.

Over the years, its bark has been boiled into tea to treat internal bleeding. And that same extract was used in enemas to treat hemorrhoids. 

As if that weren’t enough, it’s been used in magical practices as well (as its name implies). Even modern witches tout the benefits of witch hazel in healing broken hearts and warding off evil.

While not every one of these claims can be confirmed, it may just be the miracle plant for guys with oily skin. And there’s research to prove it.

Witch Hazel and Skincare

If witch hazel sticks are finding wells, why are you putting it on your skin? Modern research has backed up centuries of common knowledge - witch hazel has astringent and antiseptic properties that can help you enjoy clear, healthy skin. Studies also confirm that it is rich in free radical fighting antioxidants.

Researchers have found that “Witch hazel leaves and bark contain up to 10% tannins, which contribute to its astringent properties.” Those tannins are released through steam distillation of the plant. They’re useful for guys with oily skin, since this natural astringent helps control oil and reduces acne growth.

Add Witch Hazel to Your Skincare Routine

Some acne-fighting skincare products are made with harsh ingredients - like alcohol - that leave your skin dehydrated and irritated. Those products don’t help you get better skin. Quite the opposite, they leave it dry and contribute to skin problems.

That’s why our Balancing Toner is made with witch hazel and is alcohol free. It’s designed for guys with oily skin who want to reduce oil, minimize pores, and control acne. Here’s how to get the best results:

• Use face toner for men daily after washing your face.
• You don’t need much; just spray a bit on your skin or on a cotton ball and then pat it on.
• Once it has dried, use face moisturizer for men to lock in moisture and soothe the skin.
• Don’t overdo it. One application each day is enough for most guys with oily skin.

Use a skin toner for men with witch hazel as part of your skincare routine for men with oily skin. Remember that consistency is important in getting the best results. If your skin is consistently producing so much oil that you get shiny, greasy skin and frequent breakouts, you need to be just as consistent in treating that problem.

Witch hazel is just one natural ingredient that can contribute to clear, acne-free skin. Make sure you’re using the best natural skincare products for men that contain gentle, effective ingredients that won’t cause skin irritation or dryness.