Witch hazel extract (120 ml )

INCI: Hamamelis Virginiana – alcohol

Description: Witch Hazel is an alcoholic extract from the leaves, flowers and bark of the hamamelis tree. One of natures best astringents, there is probably no better tonic or toner for skin care preparations.

It is frequently used in products like after shave lotions, where it shows mildly styptic properties as well as helping to reduce razor burn and swelling through its cool soothing sensation.

In skin care Witch Hazel can be used as toner or in place of a cleanser. It is particularly beneficial for oil and problem skin through its more gentle properties.

1. Witch Hazel Alcohol (Hamamelis Alcohol)
   
   
   
   • Botanical Source: Also derived from the Hamamelis virginiana plant, similar to witch hazel water, but it is made by mixing the water extract with ethanol (grain alcohol) or isopropyl alcohol.
   
   
   • Alcohol Content: Witch hazel alcohol typically contains 14-15% alcohol by volume (ethanol or isopropyl alcohol), but this can vary depending on the formulation.
   
   
   • Extraction Method: The alcohol is added to the distillate from the witch hazel plant after the initial extraction of the active ingredients.
   
   
   • Purpose: The alcohol in witch hazel alcohol acts as a solvent to help preserve the extract and improve its antiseptic and astringent properties. It is also used for its cooling and refreshing effects on the skin.
   
   
   • Appearance: Clear liquid with a strong, alcohol-based scent.
   
   

Usage and Concentration

1. Witch Hazel Alcohol:
   
   
   
   • Usage Rate:
     
     
     
     • Cosmetic Formulations: Witch hazel alcohol is commonly used in aftershaves, toners, cleansers, and acne treatment products. Typical concentrations range from 10% to 20% alcohol, depending on the intended use.
     
     
     • Topical Application: In acne treatments or soothing lotions, it can be used at concentrations around 10-15% to provide astringent and antiseptic effects.
     
     
     • Skin Care Products: For products like face wipes or refreshing sprays, witch hazel alcohol is used in concentrations from 5% to 15%.
     
     
     • Medicinal Use: When used for conditions like minor cuts, bruises, or insect bites, witch hazel alcohol formulations often have 14-15% alcohol as the main preservative agent.
     
     
   
   
   • Regulation: Like witch hazel water, witch hazel alcohol is also generally regarded as safe for topical use, though care should be taken in formulations for sensitive skin due to the presence of alcohol, which can cause drying or irritation.
   
   

Common Applications

1. Witch Hazel Alcohol:
   
   
   
   • Aftershaves: Commonly used in alcohol-based aftershaves for its astringent and antiseptic properties.
   
   
   • Acne Treatments: Found in acne toners and treatment pads for its ability to tighten pores and reduce inflammation.
   
   
   • Cleansers: Used in facial wipes and cleansing pads for deep cleansing, especially for oily or acne-prone skin.
   
   
   • Insect Bite Relief: Used to relieve itching and irritation from minor insect bites or stings due to its soothing and cooling effects.
   
   
   • Minor Cuts & Bruises: As an antiseptic agent, it is used to clean and disinfect small wounds.
   
   

Safety and Precaution

Summary

• Witch Hazel Alcohol (Hamamelis Alcohol):
  
  
  
  • Composition: Witch hazel extract with ethanol or isopropyl alcohol (typically 14-15% alcohol).
  
  
  • Usage Rate: 10-20% in cosmetic products.
  
  
  • Applications: Aftershaves, acne treatments, soothing lotions, minor cut relief.
  
  
  • Properties: Astringent, antiseptic, cooling, refreshing.
  
  

Both witch hazel water and alcohol are popular in skincare and medicinal products for their natural, soothing properties, though care should be taken to avoid irritation in sensitive skin formulations.