Acne treatment with witch hazel: An assessment of its potency and usage instructions
Witch hazel, a natural liquid extract derived from the North American witch hazel plant (Hamamelis virginiana shrub), has been a popular remedy for various skin ailments for centuries[7]. More recently, it has gained attention as a potential treatment for acne due to its natural astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties[1][3][5].
The Benefits of Witch Hazel for Acne Treatment
Witch hazel offers several advantages for acne-prone skin. Its astringent properties help remove excess oil and sebum from the skin's surface, tightening pores and reducing oil production[1][3]. This can be particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types.
In addition, witch hazel has anti-inflammatory effects that may help decrease skin irritation due to acne[1]. It can soothe irritated skin and promote healing, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a more natural approach to acne treatment.
Moreover, the tannins in witch hazel have antibacterial properties that can disinfect the skin, potentially combating acne-causing bacteria[5]. This, combined with its ability to reduce swelling and absorb excess oil, may help prevent breakouts.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While witch hazel holds promise for acne treatment, it's essential to consider its potential risks. Overuse of witch hazel can lead to skin dryness, which may worsen acne due to rebound oil production[3]. People with sensitive or dry skin may want to be cautious or consider alternative products with glycerin or hyaluronic acid instead.
Additionally, some individuals may experience minor side effects like redness and itching from witch hazel use, or even more severe allergic reactions[4]. To minimize these risks, users should test witch hazel products on a small skin patch before regular use.
It's also worth noting that current research does not show that witch hazel can reduce the appearance of acne scars[6]. Anyone with moderate to severe acne may want to consult a dermatologist for recommendations and prescriptions.
A Balanced Approach to Acne Treatment
In summary, witch hazel can be a valuable addition to an acne treatment regimen, offering benefits such as tightening pores, reducing excess oil, soothing irritation, and potentially combating acne-causing bacteria[1][3][5]. However, it's essential to approach its use thoughtfully, considering potential risks and consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice.
| Benefits | Potential Risks | |---------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------| | - Natural astringent tightens pores, reduces oil[1][3] | - May cause skin irritation or dryness if overused[4] | | - Anti-inflammatory effects reduce redness and swelling[1] | - Possible allergic reactions in sensitive skin[4] | | - Antibacterial properties may combat acne-causing bacteria[5] | - Limited direct scientific evidence for acne treatment[5] | | - Soothes irritated skin and promotes healing[1][3] | - Overuse can lead to skin dryness and rebound oiliness[3] |
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Witch hazel. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-information/witch-hazel/uses/ [Accessed 28 Mar. 2023].
[2] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Acne. [online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne [Accessed 28 Mar. 2023].
[3] Healthline. (2021). Witch hazel for acne: Benefits, risks, and how to use it. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/witch-hazel-for-acne [Accessed 28 Mar. 2023].
[4] WebMD. (2021). Witch hazel side effects. [online] Available at: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-974/witch-hazel [Accessed 28 Mar. 2023].
[5] British Journal of Dermatology. (2018). Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) for the treatment of acne vulgaris: a systematic review. [online] Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/bjd.16974 [Accessed 28 Mar. 2023].
[6] Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. (2015). Witch hazel for the treatment of acne scars: a review of the literature. [online] Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4596773/ [Accessed 28 Mar. 2023].
[7] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). Witch hazel. [online] Available at: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/witch-hazel [Accessed 28 Mar. 2023].
- Incorporating science-backed health-and-wellness practices such as skin-care products with witch hazel can potentially help predict and manage conditions like acne due to its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties.
- The use of psoriasis treatments should not be solely reliant on natural remedies like witch hazel, given the need for targeted therapies to manage chronic skin conditions like psoriasis.
- To maintain overall fitness-and-exercise performance, it is crucial to consider proper skin-care routines post-workout, as excessive sweating can lead to acne breakouts, which can be alleviated using products with witch hazel.
- As more research is conducted to understand the efficacy of witch hazel in various skin ailments, it is essential for consumers to consult reputable sources such as health-and-wellness and scientific journals to ensure they are making informed decisions about their skin-care regimens.
