For this reason, witch hazel is commonly added to many over-the-counter acne products and is especially useful for individuals with oily skin. By using witch hazel immediately after shaving, you can prevent those little red bumps you sometimes get after shaving. According to one study in 1,373 people, using a shampoo containing witch hazel extract was effective in reducing scalp irritation ( 11).

Ointments and extracts can be applied directly to your skin several times per day and safely administered for the treatment of hemorrhoids after each bowel movement.The FDA has approved all strengths of witch hazel formulations for sale as skin protectants and concentrations of 10–50% as rectal astringents. Those medications are used for treating insect bites, stings, teething, hemorrhoids, itching, irritations, and minor pain. Thayer’s Witch Hazel is a brand that has been in use for a long time and is well regarded; however, other brands work equally well. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site.

To be safe, discuss witch hazel with your healthcare provider before adding it to your medicine cabinet. Witch hazel gets its medicinal properties from the tannins, flavonoids, essential oils, choline, and saponins.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab, and National Science Foundation test to ensure products contain the listed ingredients without harmful contaminants. One study in 40 people found that using a lotion with as little as 10% witch hazel extract was effective in reducing skin inflammation and treating erythema ( 4).