In today’s beauty industry, we decide between literally thousands of different products. We choose to cleanse and scrub our faces with rose water toners, apricot scrubs, you name it.
But before skincare became a commercial venture, how did people keep their complexions fresh faced and free of blemishes? By using certain plants with natural medical properties, that's how. And one such au naturale botanical they used was a breakout-fighting plant called witch hazel — which you too should start using ASAP.
What is Witch Hazel?
Hamamelis virginiana (aka witch hazel) is a species of deciduous plant that’s native to North America; However, other closely-related species of the plant exist in Japan and China as well. Occasionally referred to as “winter bloom”, the plant’s nutrient-packed bark and leaves act as a skin-healing astringent with a cornucopia of benefits when prepared correctly.
How Does Witch Hazel Benefit Skin?
When it comes to natural skincare, organic witch hazel is a secret, tried-and-true tool to help keep skin clear. Originally used by Native Americans, pure witch hazel was used to treat things like swelling, blister, sores, infections and other skin-related issues.
And because of its natural astringent qualities, using witch hazel on your face can effectively treat acne, help with rosacea flare-ups and even protect skin against premature aging.
Using witch hazel as a skin cleanser is the best way to squeeze out all of the benefits this plant has on skin. Our Purifying Facial Cleanser takes full advantage of witch hazel’s skin-healing qualities. Here’s how you should apply witch hazel to your face:
- Directions for Purifying Facial Cleanser: Apply a small amount to wet skin, massage gently and rinse with water. Follow with Zue Soothing Toner and our Daily Moisturizer, or apply Zue Restoring Night Cream to lock-in moisture.
Some Last Sage Words on Witch Hazel
In a world that seems hell-bent on using manmade, synthetic chemicals in skincare products, using witch hazel as part of your daily skin care routine is, quite literally, a natural and refreshing twist. And in most cases, this plant, when applied correctly to skin, offers better results than those promised by mass-produced, highly-manufactured facial washes, which contain drying alcohols, no less.
Consider giving your skincare routine a natural overhaul with our witch hazel products, designed to give you that porcelain-clear complexion you've always wanted.
What is your favorite thing about this ingredient? Let us know in the comments!
