Witch hazel's tannins help constrict pores and reduce the oil they produce. Swipe a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel over the T-zone after cleansing to keep shine at bay.
Six Things Witch Hazel Can Do for Your Skin
If you have a bottle of witch hazel in the medicine cabinet, don't let it sit unused. This astringent, made from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub, is a multitasking skin-care staple that can handle more jobs than you'd think.
Control Oily Skin
Soothe Sunburn
The anti-inflammatory compounds in witch hazel calm the redness and stinging of sunburned skin. Apply with a soft cloth or spray bottle for cooling relief.
Shrink Undereye Bags
Chill a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel in the fridge, then press onto closed eyes for 10 minutes. The astringent properties reduce puffiness while the cold constricts blood vessels.
Calm Razor Burn
Swipe witch hazel over freshly shaved skin to reduce redness and irritation — its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties soothe nicked skin and ward off infection.
Tighten Pores
Used as a toner after cleansing, witch hazel temporarily tightens the appearance of enlarged pores while removing any leftover residue from your cleanser.
Fade Bruises Faster
Dabbing witch hazel on a fresh bruise several times a day can help it fade more quickly, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that support circulation near the skin's surface.
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