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WITCH HAZEL

Also known as: Witch hazel, Winterbloom, Snapping hazel, Hamamelis virginiana

Overview

Witch hazel is a botanical extract derived from the leaves and bark of the *Hamamelis virginiana* plant. Traditionally used for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, it is primarily applied topically in dermatological and cosmetic formulations. It is commonly used for various skin conditions, including inflammation, minor bleeding, bruising, and irritation. The extract contains active compounds such as polyphenols (notably tannins like hamamelitannin), flavonoids, and volatile oils, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research on witch hazel is moderately mature, with several clinical trials and a recent systematic review/meta-analysis supporting its dermatologic efficacy. It is included in skincare products aimed at improving skin barrier function and reducing oxidative stress, making it a popular ingredient for soothing and protecting the skin.

Benefits

Witch hazel offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily for skin health. Its most significant effects include potent anti-inflammatory activity, demonstrated by its ability to significantly reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-8 in skin models. It also exhibits strong antioxidant properties, decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) markers like 4-Hydroxynonenal and carbonylated proteins, which helps protect skin from UV-induced oxidative damage. Furthermore, witch hazel enhances skin barrier function by upregulating critical markers like loricrin and transglutaminase-1, essential for skin integrity and repair. While some anecdotal and preliminary evidence suggests benefits for conditions like psoriasis by reducing inflammation and soothing skin, robust clinical data are still lacking. Individuals with inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may experience symptomatic relief, and those exposed to UV radiation can benefit from its antioxidant protection. A systematic review reported statistically significant standardized mean differences favoring witch hazel for reducing inflammation in dermatologic conditions, though study heterogeneity was noted.

How it works

Witch hazel's therapeutic actions are primarily attributed to its rich content of tannins (e.g., hamamelitannin), flavonoids, and other polyphenols. These compounds exert their effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and IL-8, thereby reducing inflammation. They also act as potent free radical scavengers, mitigating oxidative stress within skin cells. Additionally, witch hazel promotes the synthesis of key skin barrier proteins, including loricrin and transglutaminase-1, which are crucial for maintaining epidermal integrity and facilitating skin repair. While its absorption is mainly topical, some metabolites may modulate fibroblast activity in the skin, further supporting its protective and reparative mechanisms. Its molecular targets involve inflammatory signaling pathways and mediators of oxidative stress.

Side effects

Witch hazel is generally well-tolerated when applied topically. The most common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, include mild skin irritation or dryness, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, involve rare instances of allergic contact dermatitis. Severe hypersensitivity reactions are very rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases. There are no significant drug interactions documented with the topical use of witch hazel. Contraindications include a known allergy to witch hazel or other plants in the Hamamelidaceae family. While extensive safety data for special populations like pregnant or lactating individuals are limited, topical use is generally considered safe. It is always advisable to perform a patch test before widespread application, especially for those with sensitive skin or a history of allergies.

Dosage

Typical topical formulations of witch hazel contain 10-20% witch hazel extract. The application frequency varies depending on the specific indication and desired effect, ranging from once to several times daily. For optimal absorption and efficacy, witch hazel should be applied to clean, intact skin. It is generally advised to avoid applying it to broken or severely irritated skin to prevent further irritation. There is no established oral dosing for skin benefits, and oral use is uncommon and not well-studied, therefore not recommended for dermatological purposes. Some formulations may combine witch hazel with other soothing agents, such as aloe vera, which can enhance tolerability and provide additional benefits. There are no specific upper limits or safety thresholds defined for topical witch hazel, but users should adhere to product instructions and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

FAQs

Can witch hazel replace corticosteroids for skin inflammation?

No, witch hazel can help reduce mild inflammation but is not a substitute for prescribed anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Effects on inflammation and skin barrier improvement may be observed within days to weeks of consistent topical application.

Does witch hazel help with psoriasis?

Some symptomatic relief has been reported for psoriasis, but high-quality clinical evidence specifically supporting its efficacy for this condition is currently lacking.

Can witch hazel be used orally?

Oral use of witch hazel is not well-supported by scientific evidence for skin benefits and is generally not recommended.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11845955/ – This study utilized ex vivo and 2D skin models to evaluate a novel witch hazel formula. It demonstrated significant reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) markers, alongside improved expression of skin barrier proteins, suggesting potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the study's ex vivo nature indicates a need for clinical trials to confirm these findings in humans.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8362305/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from multiple randomized controlled trials on witch hazel's use in dermatologic conditions. It found statistically significant anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects with moderate effect sizes. The review highlighted heterogeneity among studies and the limited number of high-quality RCTs, recommending further large-scale trials to solidify the evidence.
https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Enhancing-Skin-Health:-By-Oral-Administration-of-to-Vollmer-West/dfcaae6f548c046ed1a931253ef3969c780fbee4 – This research, referenced in the context of witch hazel, investigated the effects of human metabolites of witch hazel extract on fibroblast extracellular matrix modulation under UV-A stress. It showed protective effects on skin cells, supporting the extract's antioxidant and skin repair mechanisms. However, the study's in vitro design and small sample size limit direct clinical extrapolation.