What you need to know before using witch hazel on your skin
Simone highlights: Witch hazel has some drawbacks that you should be aware of. “It can be dry,” he says. “This is something people have to respect. Witch hazel contains astringents, and if you use too much or choose a formula with too little alcohol, fragrance, or hydration, it can make your skin tough, red, and dehydrated.”
To avoid over-drying your skin, Simone shares three rules of thumb. First, choose an alcohol- and fragrance-free formula, ideally combined with a moisturizer (aloe vera, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, rosewater, etc.) to balance the skin barrier. Next, be aware of the frequency, as it may not be completely necessary as a daily step. “For oily, elastic skin, witch hazel should be used once a day, ideally in the morning or after sweating,” he says. “For sensitive, dry, rosacea, or eczema-prone skin, use every other day or as needed.” Finally, don’t combine witch hazel with other active ingredients. Because this combination can be too effective for even the most stubborn skin. “Be cautious when using with strong exfoliating acids, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or anything that’s already drying.”
Here’s Simone’s conclusion on whether witch hazel is right for you: “If your skin is oily, sweaty, congested, and overheated, witch hazel is a beautiful summer reset. If your skin is taut, flushed, just peeling, prone to excessive retinalization, sunburn, eczema, or has a compromised barrier function, leave witch hazel alone in favor of hydration, lipids, and repair,” Simone instructs.
