Witch hazel, scientifically known as Hamamelis virginiana, has long been recognized as a classic ingredient in skincare. Despite its mystical-sounding name, witch hazel is a widely-used and readily available item in American drugstores.
Originating from North America, this native shrub, also referred to as winterbloom, blooms during late fall and winter. Its distinctively vibrant yellowish-orange flowers bear a striking resemblance to elongated, slender fingers. Interestingly, the name "witch hazel" has no connection to witchcraft but rather stems from the old English word "wyche," meaning flexible, which aptly describes its pliable branches. The term "hazel" is derived from its resemblance to hazelnut shrubs.
Various parts of the witch hazel plant, including its leaves, twigs, and bark, possess astringent, anti-inflammatory, hemostatic (blood-stopping), and antipruritic (anti-itch) properties. Typically available as a liquid extract, witch hazel is commonly applied topically to soothe irritated or inflamed skin, alleviate insect bites, and cleanse and stop bleeding in minor cuts.
Here at SallyeAnder, we utilize pure witch hazel in dried powder form in two of our exceptional bars:
By incorporating witch hazel into these products, we harness its beneficial qualities to enhance the skincare experience and promote overall skin health.