Disliked

Hamamelis Virginiana Water

Explained

Hamamelis Virginiana Water is made by distilling parts of the witch hazel plant. You can also call this ingredient "witch hazel water".

The name 'Hamamelis Virginiana Water' refers to the distillation product used in cosmetics. On the other hand, 'Witch Hazel' refers to the active drug ingredient.

Unless it is specified to be non-alcohol, many types of witch hazel ingredients are distilled in denatured alcohol.

Witch Hazel water is an astringent, anti-inflammatory antioxidant, and antibacterial ingredient.

It contains tannins. Tannins have a drying effect when used on skin by constricting proteins. The constriction also minimizes the appearance of pores.

Both the tannins and fragrance found in witch hazel may be skin-sensitizing.

Witch hazel water gets anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties from its catechin and gallic acid content.

Indigenous groups have used witch hazel to help treat inflammation in North America for centuries.

See all 1,003 products with Hamamelis Virginiana Water

Users who like it
23%
Users who avoid it
77%

What it does

Astringent Tending to draw together or constrict tissues; styptic. may unclog pores, remove excess oil, shrink appearance of pores, tighten skin, cleanse irritants from skin, reduce inflammation, reduce acne, provide anti-bacterial benefits
Skin Conditioning To hydrate and soften skin
Soothing Having a calming, assuaging, or relieving effect

Alternative names

Witch Hazel Water

Prevalence

Uncommon Percentage of products that contain it
1.2%
Top categories
Cleansers
Treatments
Masks
Position Predominant list placement
Top 25%
Concentration Concentrations we've seen
5% to 86%

References

CosIng Data

CosIng ID 34184
INCI Name HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA WATER
EC #  283-637-9
All Functions Astringent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning, Soothing