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If you’ve been on a hunt for that one magical ingredient that can change your skincare game, you’ve made it to the right place. The best witch hazel products listed here offer a host of skin benefits, from rejuvenating and refreshing your skin to deep-cleaning your pores to give your skin a healthy-looking glow. Witch hazel is a medicinal plant, and different parts of the plant are used for treating various skin ailments (1). Some of the benefits of witch hazel include refining the skin texture, minimizing oil production, and reducing the appearance of acne and blemishes.
Most witch hazel products, ranging from toners to witch hazel facial serums, contain distilled witch hazel extract, which is derived from dried leaves, partially dormant twigs, and the bark of the plant.
If you’re looking for a product that will tone and even out your skin, here’s a list of the top-rated witch-hazel-infused products worth considering.
Top Picks
17 Best Witch Hazel Products For Your Skin In 2024
1. Best Dermatologist-Tested: Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner
In the world of witch hazel products, the Thayers facial toner is a cult favorite, and for the right reasons. It is formulated with the popular ingredient aloe vera, which adds to the hydrating properties of witch hazel and makes the product suitable for all skin types. Upon regular use, you can expect this toner to balance the pH levels of your skin and offer visible results by reducing the appearance of pores. Further, it is made from 98% natural ingredients and is cruelty-free. Here’s a review video that gives you more insights into the product’s benefits.
Pros
- Gentle on the skin
- Alcohol-free formula
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Unscented formula
Cons
- Might leave the face feeling a little greasy or sticky
"Incorporating this toner into my skincare regime has been a revelation. It's effective at calming my skin during occasional breakouts and given it a glow. I also adore its subtle fragrance."
Quick fact
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 14,363 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
2. Best For Sensitive Skin: Dickinson’s Pore Perfecting Toner
If you’re looking for a remedy for enlarged pores, the Dickinson’s Pore Perfecting toner is a safe bet. It is infused with 100% natural, distilled witch hazel free of any diluents or adulterants. This tried-and-tested witch hazel toner works on your pores while soothing and refreshing your skin without causing dryness. In addition, this natural toner also offers intense cleansing and eliminates excess oil, dirt, and grime from your pores. This video about the product will help you make an informed choice.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Safe for expectant mothers
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May have an unpleasant smell
"I have been using this witch hazel for a while, and its versatility and gentle care charmed me the most. I use it as a toner and a makeup remover for its refreshing effect. I love that it is not drying; I recommend it for clear and refreshed skin."
3. Best pH-Adjusting: Obagi Nu-Derm Face Toner
The deeply moisturizing toner by Obagi can smoothen out all dry skin issues. It is a blend of witch hazel and aloe vera that keeps acne at bay by maintaining the skin’s pH levels. In addition, the non-drying, scientifically formulated beauty product shrinks the pores and evens out the skin’s texture to reduce the signs of aging. The toner’s skin-healing properties make it suitable for dry and oily skin.
Pros
- Has skin-brightening properties
- Does not irritate
- Can be used to remove makeup residue
- Alcohol-free witch hazel product for acne treatment
Cons
- Might have a watery consistency
- Some might find the smell unpleasant
Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner Best Dermatologist-Tested | Dickinson’s Pore Perfecting Toner Best For Sensitive Skin | Obagi Nu-Derm Face Toner Best pH-Adjusting | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All, Oily, Combination, Normal | Sensitive | - |
| Dimensions | 3 x 2 x 8 inches | 2.5 x 3 x 7.63 inches | - |
| Weight | 12.52 Ounces | 1.05 Pounds | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 14,363 | 2,472 | - |
| Price | $9.41 | $4.94 | $44 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Hydrating: Circcell Dew pH Balancing Toner
The moisture-boosting toner from Circell uses a pH-balanced formula to make the skin look radiant and even-toned. This toner is infused with plant-based elements and skin-safe acids to make dull skin look rejuvenated. It can soothe, exfoliate, and nourish sensitive and troubled skin. In addition, the result-driven active ingredients, such as witch hazel and camphor, in the toner help tackle cellulite, acne, clogged pores, and dry skin.
Pros
- Helps refine pores
- Vegan-friendly formula
- Not tested on animals
- Cruelty-free
- Free of harsh chemicals
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some may find the consistency watery
- May have a peculiar smell
"Although its wasteful dispenser is a bit challenging to use, the toner itself performed better than I expected, enhancing my skin tone and texture. It proved a satisfactory choice for managing my skin's redness and dryness. Highly recommended!"
5. Best Cruelty-Free: Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Lavender Toner
When your skin is exposed to pollutants daily, a soothing toner like this one by Mario Badescu can help de-stress it. The blend of witch hazel, essential water, aloe vera, and lavender oil works to clarify your pores and calm your skin without stripping it of its natural moisture content. All you need is a clean cotton ball to apply this toner twice a day as the first step of your skincare routine to make the most out of its benefits and experience visible results.
Pros
- Doesn’t strip the skin
- Alcohol-free
- Recyclable packaging
- Gluten-free
- Not tested on animals
- Vegan-friendly
Cons
- Scent can be overpowering for some
"This product has helped simplify my skincare routine and impressed me with its effectiveness in improving my skin texture. Its scent, while peculiar, doesn't bother me. Overall, it is a commendable product for its gentle formula and soothing benefits."
6. Best For Minor Cuts: Amazon Basics Witch Hazel Astringent
While witch hazel is touted for its skincare benefits, it is equally beneficial for minor injuries. Thanks to this witch hazel astringent, it can speed up the healing process when you have minor cuts, insect bites, and inflammation. This is also one of the best witch hazel products for oily skin, and the formula helps tackle irritation, redness, and blemishes. Whether you use it occasionally to address wounds or as a toner daily, you’re sure to reap some amazing benefits.
Pros
- Made of 86% witch hazel
- Non-drying formula
- Free of artificial fragrances
- Dye-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol
"This product has become a versatile staple for my mother and my skincare routine. We also use it for various household purposes owing to its antiseptic nature. I am impressed by its effectiveness. It's been truly a valuable find for us."
7. Best All-In-One: Quinn’s Witch Hazel Toner With Rose Petal
This toner comprising witch hazel with rose water and aloe vera by Quinn is magic in a bottle. From fighting acne to reducing puffy eyes and treating varicose veins bruises, it can be used in several ways as it has the astringent properties of witch hazel and the soothing properties of rose water. It also acts as an all-in-one witch hazel facial cleanser and toner and helps refresh your skin, maintain its moisture levels, and treat sunburns. And if you deal with eczema or psoriasis, you can depend on this product for visible results. Here’s a review video of this product.
Pros
- Organic formulation
- Free of parabens and alcohol
- Free of propylene glycol
- Moisturizing formula
Cons
- Some might find the fragrance a little overpowering
"Quinn’s witch hazel toner works great for my skin—reducing skin redness while being gentle. It feels a bit heavy post-application, but it's working impressively at controlling breakouts."
Did you know?8. Best For Acne-Prone Skin: Differin Pore-Minimizing Toner With Witch Hazel
The best witch hazel pore minimizer that is enriched with vitamin B, rosehip extract, aloe, and chamomile to deliver multiple skin benefits. You can use this toner with witch hazel to reduce excess oil production, relax and de-stress your skin, and alleviate redness. The gentle, professional-grade product can fit seamlessly into your skincare routine—both in the morning and at night—to fight acne, and it can also be used as a skin-conditioning agent.
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Can be used daily
- Alcohol-free
- Soothing and unscented formula
Cons
- May have a runny consistency
"After a month's use of this product, I have seen a noticeable difference in my skin health. It works great for my skin concerns and is gentle on my sensitive skin. Overall, it has been a refreshing find for minimizing pores and skin redness."
9. Best Therapeutic Grade: Zongle Witch Hazel Astringent
This USDA-certified product is one of the best organic witch hazel astringents formulated for therapeutic use. It is wildcrafted and derived from the process of natural distillation, making it a premium astringent for treating minor cuts, burns, and injuries. You can also use this witch hazel astringent for alleviating skin irritation and add it to your skincare regimen to tighten your skin. As it has been tested for its potency and composition, you’re giving your skin the best you can when you use this therapeutic-grade witch hazel.
Pros
- GMO-free
- Free of artificial ingredients
- Paraben- and pesticide-free
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
Cons
- Bottle might be smaller than you expect
"This toner caught my attention due to its alcohol-free formulation. While I found the scent a little strong for my likeness, mixing a little rose water worked. Overall, it serves its purpose and is a solid pick for those conscious of additive-free skincare."
10. Best For Travel: Pharma-C-Wipes Witch Hazel Wipes
Following your skincare routine on the go has been made easier with these witch hazel facial wipes from Pharm-C-Wipes. Each pack contains 40 wipes pre-moistened with 100% witch hazel. These wipes can be used for cleansing, toning, and refreshing the skin. And what’s more, these wipes absorb excess oil and shrink your pores when used daily. You can pick a wipe to clean your face at work, after working out, or even before bed.
Pros
- Versatile and convenient to use
- pH-balanced formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Soothes and refreshes skin
Cons
- Contains alcohol
"These witch hazel wipes have become a staple in my gym bag for post-exercise refreshment. Their alcohol-free nature is a big plus for my sensitive skin. Overall, a convenient pick for skincare on the go."
11. Best For Minor Skin Irritation: T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel For Face And Body
The T.N Dickinson’s witch hazel can come to your rescue when you have a minor cut or are bitten by an insect. Formulated with all-natural witch hazel, it relieves skin irritation caused by bites and cuts. This witch hazel astringent also absorbs oils from the face, making it a great choice for those with oily skin. You can also use this product with witch hazel for combating rashes, fighting blemishes, reducing skin inflammation, and making your skin soft.
Pros
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Free of fragrances
- Free of dyes
- Gentle for daily use
Cons
- Some may find the smell unpleasant
"Including this product in my skincare routine has proved to be a wise decision. It feels refreshing and light on my skin. I also use it to make DIY bug spray. It's worth trying!"
12. Best Unscented: FreshMoment Witch Hazel Natural Astringent
If you experience infections after getting a tattoo, you need the FreshMoment witch hazel astringent to prep your skin when you get tatted the next time. The astringent can also come in handy during and after a tattoo procedure. This witch hazel product strengthens your skin and tones it to guard your skin against ink rejection. Furthermore, it also reduces redness and bleeding. If you have extremely sensitive skin, consider diluting the liquid by mixing it with your usual disinfectant.
Pros
- Unscented
- Free of dyes
- Doubles as a disinfectant
- Gentle formula
Cons
- Contains alcohol
"While I was already smitten by this product's skin benefits, I was amazed to witness its effectiveness on bug bites. This versatile formula has become a staple in my homemade skin and hair care recipes. I would recommend it!"
13. Best Alcohol-Free: Leven Rose Witch Hazel Toner
Here’s one of the best alcohol-free witch hazel products with multitudinous skin and hair benefits. The tried-and-tested toner is suitable for acne-prone skin and helps tackle dark marks and hand spots and reduce redness. The blend of rose, cucumber, and calendula adds to its soothing properties and makes it an effective toner. You can also use the toner for your hair right after using a shampoo and conditioner. As it contains organic ingredients, quality is something you don’t have to worry about when using this Leven Rose product.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Chemical-free
- pH-balancing formula
- Comes in a dark amber bottle for extended shelf life
Cons
- Some may find the fragrance overpowering
"Trying out this rosewater toner was a pleasant experience. Its natural ingredients agree with my sensitive skin–leaving it feeling refreshed. It has been a solid addition to my regular skincare regimen."
14. Best Organic: Humphreys Witch Hazel Organic Toner
If you’re all about products sans chemicals, this witch hazel toner by Humphreys can add value to your skincare regimen. It is made from organic witch hazel and has been specially distilled to preserve the natural potency of the powerful ingredient. This thoughtfully-formulated toner does not contain parabens, sulfates, soaps, or gluten, which means your skin does not have to put up with harsh chemicals to derive the benefits of witch hazel.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologically tested
- Vegan-friendly and cruelty-free
- Free of dyes
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
"Including witch hazel in my skincare routine proved to be a wise decision. This toner imparts a gentle softness on my skin and works great for heat rashes too. While the bottle design is a bit annoying, dispensing too much product, overall, I'm pretty happy with it."
15. Best Non-Drying: St. Clare Witch Hazel Toner
Witch hazel products seldom double as moisturizers, but if you’re looking for one that does, your search ends right here. The St. Clare witch hazel cleanses and conditions your skin without drying it out, and it has been specially formulated to suit sensitive skin. It is enriched with aloe vera, which is responsible for the hydrating and moisture-retaining benefits of the product. Witch hazel, as the active ingredient, offers visible results by effectively reducing puffiness of the eyes, rashes, inflammation, and chaffing, and giving you overall healthy skin.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Unscented
- Free of parabens
- Propylene glycol-free
- Has antibacterial properties
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely oily skin
"This alcohol-free witch hazel toner is gentle on my skin and removes leftover makeup, leaving my skin hydrated. While it did take a little longer to absorb in my skin, it's a solid pick for its visible results."
16. Best GMO-Free: Essential Living Witch Hazel Toner
Formulated to soothe combination skin, the Essential Living witch hazel toner serves multiple purposes—it can be used as a toner for direct application or as a makeup remover. Thanks to its cleansing properties, this witch hazel toner can help you remove makeup, oil, and dirt. You can also use this toner as a witch hazel facial mask as it has astringent properties. Apply a few drops, leave it for a few minutes, and rinse it to reveal radiant skin.
Pros
- Free of alcohol and GMO
- pH balancing formula
- Unscented formula
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Has moisturizing properties
Cons
- Bottle may not be travel-friendly
"I have tried various witch hazel products before, but this one stands out for its versatility, catering to my numerous skin concerns. I have been using it as a toner and a post-shave soother, and it delivers as expected. It is a valuable pick that helps manage my acne while being gentle on my skin."
17. Best For Combination Skin: Boscia Rosewater Mist With Witch Hazel
This refreshing mist is powered by a blend of rosewater and witch hazel that keeps your face hydrated for a long duration. This soothing beauty product absorbs excess oil and unclogs pores to add radiance and glow to your skin. The professional-grade formula also helps lessen the growth of bacteria that can cause infection and acne formation. With regular use, this witch hazel face mist leaves your skin looking smoother and softer. Apply the toner daily on your skin after cleansing to achieve the best results.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for combination skin
- Tightens pores
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely oily skin
"I particularly like this toner's rosewater scent, and its soothing benefits work great for my skin's redness. It's a product I find myself reaching for throughout the day, and I have happily incorporated it into my regimen."
How To Choose The Right Witch Hazel Product?
Here are some factors you should consider when choosing a witch hazel product.
- Concentration of witch hazel: Since witch hazel is an astringent, determining the percentage of witch hazel used is crucial. Using a product with a high concentration of witch hazel for sensitive skin can also have harmful effects on the skin and cause irritation and excessive dryness.
- Additional ingredients: When you invest in a witch hazel product with nourishing ingredients, you can make the most out of its benefits along with that of the additional ingredients. Ingredients such as rose water, aloe vera, vitamin E oil, chamomile extracts, and calendula are generally found in witch hazel products due to their many benefits.
- Chemicals to avoid: Certain artificial preservatives such as parabens and sulfates and artificial dyes and fragrances can be harmful to your skin in the long run. Therefore, choose a product formulated with clean ingredients.
Simone de Vlaming, a beauty expert and founder of Beautymone, says, “Always do a patch test before using any product on your face to check if you have any allergic reactions. Also, avoid products that contain talc.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are tannins in witch hazel?
Tannins are active compounds found in witch hazel and are known for their effectiveness in reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and repairing broken skin.
2. Does witch hazel actually work?
Witch hazel is a potent ingredient that helps remediate several skin problems and some diseases with its anti-inflammatory properties (1). Depending on the purpose, it can be taken orally or applied directly to the skin. Its efficacy depends on multiple factors, such as how it is derived, its concentration level, the combination of ingredients used, and the purpose of application.
3. Does witch hazel clear up dark spots?
Yes, witch hazel is a natural astringent and is an effective ingredient to clarify the skin (2). It helps in reducing inflammation and redness caused by acne, sunburns, and age spots, and minimizes the pores. When applied directly on a dark spot, it helps fade the spots over time.
4. Are all witch hazel the same?
No, different brands use different extraction and distillation methods, which changes the effectiveness and application of the witch hazel. Some witch hazel solutions or extracts may contain alcohol, and some may be free from alcohol, depending on the extraction process. Also, it naturally contains eugenol, which may cause mild skin irritation, so some witch hazel products are free from eugenol. Sometimes witch hazel extract is also combined with other skin-nourishing ingredients to improve the benefits and to make it functional for a particular skin issue.
5. Should I moisturize after applying witch hazel?
Due to astringent properties, witch hazel may make the skin dry and irritated. The best way to use witch hazel is to use it in combination with your regular moisturizer to avoid drying skin.
6. Is witch hazel good for aging skin?
Witch hazel can be used as a toner for aging skin as it contains polyphenols. Polyphenols are great for mitigating the damage caused by UV exposure and for reducing the free radical damage caused by pollution to the skin. It also makes the aging skin look firmer (3) and brighter by shrinking the pores, removing excess oil, fighting acne, and reducing under-eye puffiness. However, it may not be effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
7. Can witch hazel tighten loose skin?
Witch hazel contains tannins and acts as an astringent. This helps in tightening the skin temporarily and instantly gives a firmer look to the skin (3). But it is not yet evident that witch hazel can permanently tighten loose skin.
Witch hazel has proven to be an immensely effective skincare ingredient for every skin type. The key is to find a product formulated to work for you. Whether it is a product with a combination of hydrating ingredients for dry skin or one that boasts a higher witch hazel concentration suited for oily skin, it helps when you go through the product label and ensure the product works for your skin type. Pay special attention to the ingredients list and look out for chemicals, impure witch hazel, or potential allergens so that you give your skin the love and care it deserves.
Infographic: What Are The Benefits Of Using Witch Hazel?
Witch hazel is commonly used to treat various skin conditions in traditional medicine. It contains many antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components such as gallic acid and tannins. However, if you are still in doubt about including it in your skincare routine, here are some benefits of witch hazel to help you make the right decision.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Witch Hazel – Uses Side Effects and More
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-227/witch-hazel - What is witch hazel?
https://www.healthline.com/health/witch-hazel-for-face#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1 - Cast a skin-firming spell on your face with witch hazel! why it’s one natural alternative you should know about
https://www.apothecarie.com/blogs/skinxo/46155396-cast-a-skin-firming-spell-on-your-face-with-witch-hazel-why-its-one-natural-alternative-you-should-know-about#:~:text=What%20it%20does%3A%20Just%20like,temporarily%20contract%20and%20look%20tighter. - Witch-Hazel
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/witch-hazel - Witch Hazel : Mystical Powers
http://libraryexhibits.uvm.edu/omeka/exhibits/show/uvmtrees/witch-hazel-intro/witch-hazel-mystical-powers
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Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag, our experienced in-house content writer and product reviewer, loves to experiment with different skincare products and uses her knowledge and experience to write informative reviews. She has reviewed these top-rated witch hazel products after going through several websites and considering multiple user reviews to help readers have access to the best products. She has also answered some common questions about witch hazel and included a buying guide to help you make the right choice.
