Witch Hazel is a shrub type plant indigenous to Eastern North America,. It’s also known as Hamamelis virginiana or Winterbloom. Historically, Native Americans used the plant for medical purposes; this was done by boiling the shrub to create an extract which could be used for numerous ailments. This remedy was adopted by early settlers in the United States. As they explored the US, the Witch Hazel spread with them.
Irritated Skin
Witch Hazel’s most notable natural benefits are its ability to alleviate swelling and inflammation. With other research suggesting it can be used orally to treat haemorrhoids, diarrhoea and colds. With a natural product as amazing as this, who needs complicated and invasive medical procedures!
Witch hazel is also often used by people who get irritated skin from using deodorants. Skin under the arm can be a lot more sensitive than on other areas of the body. With some even opting to stop using deodorants altogether!
But it’s most common use is to treat irritated skin. The property of the bark helps to reduce swelling and repair the damaged skin. Witch Hazel has also been used as a natural treatment for eczema and psoriasis. With the amount of skincare and beauty products and other creams and lotions we put on our skin. Witch hazel is necessary to calm down irritated skin. However, you could always challenge yourself and go make up free for a few days, weeks. Give your skin a well deserved break.
So, What Are The Benefits?
Acne Treatment
Witch Hazel’s astringent properties come down to the presence of one organic compound – tannins. This helps to decrease pore size and, in turn, reduce the production of excess oil. Its antibacterial properties help to remove dead skin and keeps your skin clean. Reducing the risk of acne filling your pores.
If you’ve woken up to a red, angry looking pimple, Witch Hazel’s anti-inflammatory qualities may reduce the redness and swelling.
Unfortunately, Witch Hazel isn’t the complete cure. You may need to combine it with another treatment. Especially if you’ve been left with scars from previous breakouts. If you have acne scarring, you may need to look for an acne scar removal treatment.
Soothes Scalp Sensitivity
Many people suffer from scalp sensitivity, this can be very uncomfortable with added symptoms of irritation and itching. Witch Hazel is great for alleviating these symptoms by administering the solution to your scalp. Try to do this before washing your hair or applying products. It is also noted to help rehydrate your scalp and lessen dandruff and dryness.
Beat Bruises
One of Witch Hazel’s original treatments is to aid bruises and minor cuts. Reducing inflammation, and helping to heal the afflicted area.
If you look closely you’ll see breaks in the skin in the bruised area. Witch Hazel brings the swelling down and can speed up the recovery process.
Soothe Sunburn
There’s no worse regret than forgetting to put sun lotion on and paying the price with the lobster look. Again, Witch Hazel’s ingredients can help to reduce the swelling and potentially prevent the peeling process.
How To Use For Acne
- Wash your face thoroughly, use warm water to open the pores. Pat dry with a towel once complete.
- Dab a small amounts on your skin, to test your skin’s sensitivity. If you feel discomfort, give it a miss as you could irritate your skin further.
- Apply the witch hazel by pouring the solution onto a cotton pad. Gently rub it into your skin, making sure to avoid the eyes.
- Leave to dry.
Tips To Reduce Puffy Eyes
- Pop your bottle of witch hazel in the fridge for 20 minutes or so, to chill.
- Soak the cotton pads with the Witch Hazel.
- Lie back and place over your closed eyes.
- Relax and wait 10 minutes, you should feel ready to start the day now!
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