Use Witch Hazel to Treat Acne

Many teenagers and young adults have to deal with acne at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, this skin condition is sometimes difficult to treat.

Acne is caused by the excess sebum produced by the skin, which clogs up the pores causing inflammation and infection. The condition can be caused by digestive problems, hormonal imbalance, genetics or stress.

The first step in treating acne is to find the right treatment that can kill bacteria and calm down inflammation. You can also reduce the quantity of sebum produced by the skin by applying astringents, such as witch hazel.

Witch hazel has been used for hundreds of years as a natural remedy for numerous skin problems thanks to its high concentration of tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. The plant can also be used as a skin cleanser and toner.

How to use witch hazel to treat acne

The best ways to use witch hazel to treat acne are either as a skin mask or skin toner. By using it as a toner, it will reduce the blemishes and spots and will keep your face and skin healthy.

To prepare your homemade toner, add 3 drops of tea tree essential oil and 3 drops of lavender essential oil to each 1 oz of witch hazel. Apply the mixture onto your skin using a cotton ball or use a spray bottle.

• Aloe Vera

You can also mix 6 tablespoons of witch hazel with 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and 5-10 drops of tea tree essential oil (or lavender). Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, while lavender and tea tree oils are antibacterial.

• Lemon juice

Fill 3/4 of a glass bottle with witch hazel and add lemon juice until it’s full. If you feel that the lemon juice stings a little, you can reduce the amount or use another natural toner that works for you.

• Baking soda and green tea

Prepare a cup of green tea, and then pour it into a glass jar with a screw lid. Add a few drops of vitamin E oil, a few drops of tea tree oil, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of witch hazel and several drops of lemon juice. Apply the mixture to the affected areas twice a day.

• Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar removes the excess sebum from the skin and restores its pH level. Take a glass jar and fill it with 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar and 2/3 cup of witch hazel. You can add several drops of lavender essential oil and mix. Apply 2-3 times a day.

You can also use witch hazel as an after-sun treatment to reduce the burning sensation and the redness of the skin.  Because this plant has antiseptic properties, it can also be used efficiently to treat bacterial infections of the skin and other dermatological conditions.

Stop buying expensive cosmetic products to hydrate your skin. Use witch hazel immediately after taking a shower and it will lock moisture into the skin. This ingredient can also reduce fine wrinkles and lines thanks to its potent antioxidant properties.