Witch Hazel Extract (Hamamelis virginiana Extract)

The witch hazel plant is a genus of flowering shrubs with three main species native to North America. The name "witch hazel" is derived from Middle English word wiche, meaning pliable or bendable (referring to the twigs of the plant). The main constituents of the extract include tannins, gallic acid, catechins, proanthocyanins, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin), essential oil (carvacrol, eugenol, hexenol), choline, saponins, and bitters.

The bark and leaves of the witch hazel have astringent properties and are frequently used in natural medicine for treating bruises and insect bites. Also because of these astringent properties it is often used in cleansers and acne treatment products. The distillate extract of the plant help shrink and contract pores on the epidermal surface, making it excellent for toners. It is one of the few astringent and anti-acne ingredients that is safe for use on eczema and psoriasis, and may even impart soothing properties that help diminish the severity of these skin conditions.