Witch hazel water: Proven benefits for skin and circulation

What is witch hazel water and why is it so valuable in cosmetics?

Witch hazel water, distilled from the leaves and twigs of Hamamelis virginiana, is an ingredient with astringent, soothing and toning properties. Used for centuries in phytotherapy and cosmetics, it is particularly appreciated for its purifying action on the skin, its ability to tighten pores and its decongestant effect on blood circulation.

Thanks to its richness in tannins and flavonoids, witch hazel floral water is a must-have skin care product for sensitive skin prone to redness or blemishes. It is also reputed to relieve heavy legs, reduce dark circles and soothe skin irritations.

What are the benefits of witch hazel water for the skin?

Witch hazel water is a true beauty ally thanks to its many dermatological benefits:

• Tightens pores and refines skin texture: Its natural astringent effect helps tighten dilated pores, leaving skin smoother and more even.
• Regulates excess sebum: Ideal for combination to oily skin, it helps matify the skin and limit the appearance of shine.
• Soothes redness and irritation: Its anti-inflammatory action calms sensitive, reactive skin or skin prone to redness (rosacea, couperose).
• Reduces blemishes: Thanks to its purifying and antibacterial properties, it helps prevent and soothe pimples and blackheads.
• Tones and refreshes the complexion: Applied as a lotion, it provides an immediate sensation of freshness, ideal for waking up the skin in the morning.

Is witch hazel water effective against dark circles and puffiness?

Yes, witch hazel water is an excellent treatment for the eye contour area, thanks to its decongestant properties. It helps to:

• Reduce dark circles by stimulating blood circulation under the eyes.
• Reduce puffiness thanks to its draining, soothing effect.
• Defatigates the eyes with an immediate sensation of freshness.

Tip: For optimum effect, soak two cotton pads in cool witch hazel water and leave on eyelids for 5 to 10 minutes.

Is witch hazel water good for blood circulation?

Witch hazel water is recognized for its venotonic virtues, ideal for relieving heavy legs, varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

• Improves blood circulation by strengthening capillary walls.
• Reduces the sensation of heavy legs and soothes discomfort associated with venous insufficiency.
• Relieves hemorrhoids through local application, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and soothing effect.

For immediate relief, apply witch hazel water with a cotton pad to the affected areas, or spray directly onto the legs at the end of the day.

What can witch hazel water be used for?

Witch hazel water is a multi-purpose skin care product that can be integrated into many beauty and well-being routines:

• Facial toner: Apply morning and night to clean skin to purify and refresh the complexion.
• Gentle make-up remover: Mix with vegetable oil for effective, soothing make-up removal.
• After-shave care: Soothes irritation and reduces redness caused by shaving.
• Refreshing spray: Sprayed on face and body, it provides an instant sensation of freshness.
• Decongestant compresses: For dark circles, insect bites or skin irritations.
• Hair care: added to a hair spray, it lightens greasy hair and soothes irritated scalp.

Which witch hazel water to choose for optimum effectiveness?

To reap the full benefits of witch hazel water, we recommend choosing a pure, organic floral water, free from alcohol and chemical additives.

• 100% pure, natural witch hazel water: preserves all its active plant ingredients.
• Alcohol-free: to prevent skin dryness.
• Packaged in a glass bottle: For better preservation of active ingredients.

Opt for certified organic floral water, traditionally steam-distilled for optimum concentration of beneficial active ingredients.

Does witch hazel water have any side effects?

Witch hazel water is well tolerated by the skin, but a few precautions should be taken:

• Very dry skin: Excessive use may cause slight dryness due to its astringent effect.
• Skin allergies: Always test on a small area before first use, especially for ultra-sensitive skin.
• Do not ingest: Witch hazel water is for external use only.

How to store witch hazel water?

To preserve all its properties, witch hazel water must be stored in optimal conditions:

• Protect from heat and light: preferably in an opaque or dark glass bottle.
• In the fridge: For a more refreshing effect and longer shelf life.
• Quick use: Consume within 6 months of opening to guarantee effectiveness.

Can witch hazel water be used during pregnancy?

Yes, witch hazel water is safe for use by pregnant and breast-feeding women, particularly to relieve :

• Heavy, swollen legs.
• Hemorrhoids, often frequent during pregnancy.
• Redness and skin irritation linked to hormonal changes.

However, in case of doubt, it is always preferable to consult a health professional before use.