Witch Hazel

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.

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Primary Function
Hydrosol
Add'l Function
Antioxidant
Active
Scent Profile
Herbaceous
Earthy
Medicinal
Fresh
Is It Natural?
Natural (Steam-Distilled)
Formulate with Confidence

Botanical Building Blocks for Every Blend

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Skin Type Suitability

All
Oily
Combination
Blemish-Prone
Mature
Considered Safe for Teens
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Typical Product Use

Astringent, antioxidant, soothing agent, skin-conditioning

Product Type(s):

Toner
Cleanser
Spray
Serum
Lotion
Cream
Hydrating Product
General Use

Typical Usage Range:

5–100% depending on formulation and extract strength

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Supportive Qualities

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

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Important to Know

Alcohol-containing distillates may be drying or irritating; patch test recommended; avoid around eyes

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Sourcing Tips

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

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More information*

Explore additional safety and regulatory data from trusted external sources:

Cosmetics Info
Cosmetic Ingredient Review
EWG's Skin Deep
INCIDecoder
SkinSAFE
SpecialChem

*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.