INCI Name
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Botanical Name
Hamamelis virginiana
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana water) is a steam-distilled distillate of the witch hazel shrub. Rich in tannins and flavonoids, it provides astringent, soothing, and antioxidant support. Used in toners, cleansers, and sprays, it is especially valued in formulations for oily, blemish-prone, and combination skin.


Astringent, antioxidant, soothing agent, skin-conditioning
Product Type(s):
Typical Usage Range:
5–100% depending on formulation and extract strength
Traditionally used to tone and clarify skin; provides astringent and refreshing support in facial and body care
Primary Components:
Tannins (hamamelitannin), flavonoids, volatile oils, gallic acid
Alcohol-containing distillates may be drying or irritating; patch test recommended; avoid around eyes
Preferred Extraction Method:
Steam-distilled or water distillate (with or without alcohol)
Choose alcohol-free, distilled witch hazel for sensitive skin care; verify cosmetic grade; prefer organic sourcing
Explore additional safety and regulatory data from trusted external sources:
*The ingredient details on this page are intended for general educational use and should not be considered exhaustive. Additional properties, uses, or safety considerations may be available from other sources. Root & Ritual Apothecary is not affiliated with Cosmetics Info, Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), INCIDecoder, SkinSafe, EWG Skin Deep, or SpecialChem. External links are provided solely for informational purposes; Root & Ritual does not control or guarantee the accuracy, methodology, or conclusions of third-party sources, including consumer rating systems such as EWG.
Witch Hazel
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