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Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract

Immerse your skin in the tranquil embrace of Hamamelis Virginiana Extract, a botanical wonder revered for its calming and purifying essence. Envelop yourself in the luxury of this time-honoured elixir, renowned for its ability to refine pores and soothe irritations with an unmatched grace. Let the gentle touch of Witch Hazel unveil a complexion that exudes serene confidence and timeless elegance.

4 key benefits
Key Benefits
Soothes Irritation Tightens Pores Balances Oil
Pregnancy
Safe
When to Use
Morning + Night

What Exactly Is Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract?

Here's what you're putting on your skin — and why we love it.

Hamamelis Virginiana, or Witch Hazel, is an extract derived from the leaves and bark of the North American shrub of the same name. Rich in tannins, flavonoids, and volatile oils, this extract is a cornerstone of traditional skincare, praised for its astringent and anti-inflammatory qualities. Witch Hazel has been used for centuries in various cultures as a natural remedy to treat a myriad of skin conditions, thanks to its ability to tone and clarify the skin without over-drying.

What Happens When Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract Touches Your Skin

Understanding the process helps you get better results at home and in the treatment room.

The key to Hamamelis Virginiana's efficacy lies in its high tannin content, which acts as an astringent to shrink pores and tighten the skin. This action not only refines the skin's texture but also helps to reduce excess oil production, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types. Moreover, Witch Hazel's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritated skin, reducing redness and calming inflammation. This dual action of toning and soothing makes it a versatile ingredient in addressing various skin concerns.

Why Our Therapists Reach for Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract

When it comes to choosing actives for your treatment, our therapists are selective. Here's why Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract earns its place.

At Stephanies® Luxury Spas, therapists value Witch Hazel for its gentle yet effective nature, making it a preferred choice for calming sensitive and reactive skin. Its ability to purify and balance the skin's natural oils without stripping moisture is particularly beneficial in luxury facial treatments aimed at restoring harmony to the complexion. Furthermore, therapists appreciate its adaptability across different skin types, enhancing both the efficacy and experience of bespoke spa treatments.
— Stephanies Skin Therapists

What Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract Will Do for Your Skin

These are the results our guests notice — and the reasons we keep coming back to this ingredient.

Soothes Irritation

Calms redness and inflammation for a more even complexion.

Tightens Pores

Reduces the appearance of enlarged pores for a smoother skin texture.

Balances Oil

Regulates sebum production to keep skin clear and balanced.

Natural Antioxidant

Provides protection against environmental stressors.

The Insider Tip

Straight from the treatment room — something most guests don't know about Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract.

A professional tip is to incorporate Witch Hazel in your daily skincare routine as a toner post-cleansing to prepare the skin for further treatment while maintaining its natural balance. Its versatility makes it an excellent addition to both morning and evening routines, especially for those with combination or oily skin types.
— Stephanies Skin Therapists

Who Benefits Most from Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract?

Not every ingredient is for everyone — here's who we see the best results with.

Witch Hazel is ideal for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin due to its pore-refining and oil-balancing properties. It is also beneficial for those with sensitive or reactive skin, as its soothing nature helps reduce redness and irritation. Those seeking a natural approach to skincare will appreciate its gentle yet effective action.

How to Use Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract in Your Routine

Getting the application right makes all the difference. Here's what our therapists suggest.

Application
Apply Witch Hazel extract on a cotton pad and gently swipe over cleansed skin, focusing on areas prone to oiliness or irritation. Follow with your chosen serums and moisturisers.
When to Use
Use Witch Hazel extract both morning and evening as part of your skincare routine. It is particularly beneficial in warmer months to control excess oil production.
Worth Knowing Before You Layer

Avoid pairing with strong acids like glycolic or salicylic acid in the same routine to prevent potential irritation.

Use Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract at Home

These are the products our therapists recommend when guests want to continue working with Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract between visits.

Resurfacing Polish Cream
skin editions™
Resurfacing Polish Cream

This resurfacing polish cream is a refined, sensorial treatment that gently buffs away dull surface cells to unveil a smoother, more radiant complexion. Delicate natural polishing esters are expertly blended with soothing botanical extracts and nourishing plant oils to support skin renewal while preserving essential hydration, leaving the skin silky soft, balanced and luminous.

View Product →

Feel Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract in Professional Hands

While we don't currently have a treatment built specifically around Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, our therapists may incorporate it into your session based on your skin's needs. Ask about it during your next visit — or explore our full treatment menu below.

Explore All Treatments

What to Pair with Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract

Ingredients work better in the right company. These are the combinations our therapists recommend for stronger results.

Pairs Well With
Pair with hyaluronic acid for added hydration or niacinamide to enhance skin barrier function and reduce inflammation.
Good to Know

Those with extremely dry or eczema-prone skin should use Witch Hazel with caution, as its astringent properties might exacerbate dryness.

Pregnancy & Sensitivity

Witch Hazel is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and for those with sensitive skin, though a patch test is always recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

While generally safe for most skin types, those with extremely dry skin should use it sparingly to avoid further dryness.

Yes, its astringent properties can help reduce oiliness and refine pores, which may aid in managing acne.

Witch Hazel is typically safe during pregnancy, but it's advisable to perform a patch test or consult with a healthcare provider.

Witch Hazel can be used twice daily, in the morning and evening, as part of your skincare routine.

Hamamelis Virginiana, or Witch Hazel, is an extract derived from the leaves and bark of the North American shrub of the same name. Rich in tannins, flavonoids, and volatile oils, this extract is a cornerstone of traditional skincare, praised for its astringent and anti-inflammatory qualities. Witch Hazel has been used for centuries in various cultures as a natural remedy to treat a myriad of skin conditions, thanks to its ability to tone and clarify the skin without over-drying. If you'd like to know how it fits into your routine specifically, our therapists can walk you through it during your next visit.

You'll find Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract in several of our Skin Editions products, including Resurfacing Polish Cream. Not sure which one suits your skin? Our therapists can match you with the right formula.

Not Sure if Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract Is Right for You?

Ask Ivy, our skincare concierge, for personalised guidance — or book a consultation and let one of our therapists assess your skin in person.

Talk to a Therapist
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