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Witch Hazel Extract
At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about witch hazel. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
Please note: Witch hazel is also an approved active ingredient in some over-the-counter drug products, such as astringents for minor skin irritations and hemorrhoid products. Some studies on this page tested witch hazel in medical conditions. ORY® witch hazel products are cosmetics and are not intended to treat any condition.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Witch hazel comes from the leaves, bark, and twigs of the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana. It is a classic astringent. In ORY® products, it helps skin feel toned and refreshed and look less oily. |
Verification: Supported. The CIR Expert Panel concluded that witch hazel ingredients are safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Lab studies show antioxidant activity.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of witch hazel ingredients.
- Thring, T. S. A., Hili, P., & Naughton, D. P. (2011). Antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory activity of extracts and formulations of white tea, rose, and witch hazel on primary human dermal fibroblast cells. Journal of Inflammation, 8, 27. https://doi.org/10.1186/1476-9255-8-27
- What it shows: Lab study of witch hazel antioxidant activity.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Witch hazel comes in two main forms. The distillate (Hamamelis Virginiana Water) is made by steam-distilling the plant and is often preserved with about 14% alcohol; it contains little tannin. Extracts are made with water, glycerin, or alcohol and are rich in tannins such as hamamelitannin. |
Verification: Supported. The forms and their chemistry are well documented.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- What it shows: Describes witch hazel forms and composition.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Witch hazel suits oily, combination, and normal skin. Dry or sensitive skin should choose alcohol-free forms. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. CIR’s conclusion depends on formulating to avoid irritation. Alcohol-containing forms can dry and sting.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- What it shows: Safety conclusion and irritation data.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, witch hazel helps the scalp feel refreshed and less oily. |
Verification: Limited evidence. We found no clinical studies of witch hazel on the scalp. ORY® haircare products are not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- What it shows: Reported hair-care uses.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
5. Benefits
Claim: Witch hazel helps skin feel toned and refreshed, look less shiny, and look calmer. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. In a study in volunteers, a witch hazel lotion modestly reduced redness from UV light. In a study of people with eczema, witch hazel cream did not work better than the plain cream base and was less effective than hydrocortisone. Relieving minor skin irritations, insect bites, cuts, or scrapes is an FDA drug claim for witch hazel, and ORY® cosmetics do not make it.
Citations:
- Hughes-Formella, B. J., et al. (1998). Anti-inflammatory effect of hamamelis lotion in a UVB erythema test. Dermatology, 196(3), 316–322. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9621139/
- What it shows: Volunteer study of UV redness.
- Korting, H. C., et al. (1995). Comparative efficacy of hamamelis distillate and hydrocortisone cream in atopic eczema. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 48(6), 461–465. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8582464/
- What it shows: Eczema study with a negative result.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 347 — Skin protectant drug products for over-the-counter human use (including 347.10 colloidal oatmeal, 347.12 astringents such as witch hazel, and 347.52 astringent labeling). https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: FDA astringent rule for witch hazel.
- Hughes-Formella, B. J., et al. (1998). Anti-inflammatory effect of hamamelis lotion in a UVB erythema test. Dermatology, 196(3), 316–322. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9621139/
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Witch hazel is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported. Use levels stay within the ranges CIR reviewed (up to about 43% for the distillate and about 4.3% for extracts). ORY® does not make hemorrhoid products, which FDA regulates as anorectal drugs.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | Up to 43% distillate; 1–4% extract | Toners, after-shave and post-wax products, alcohol-free eye gels, and after-sun mists. |
| Haircare | 5–20% distillate; 0.5–2% extract | Scalp toners, refresh sprays, clarifying shampoos, and dry-shampoo mists. |
| Handmade Soap | Up to 25% of the water as distillate | Distillate replacing part of the water; alcohol can speed up trace. |
| Cosmetics | 2–10% distillate; 0.5–2% extract | Mattifying primers, setting sprays, and makeup-removing wipes. |
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- What it shows: Reported use concentrations.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 346 — Anorectal drug products for over-the-counter human use. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-346
- What it shows: FDA anorectal drug rule.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
7. Pros
Claim: A classic, well-reviewed astringent with alcohol-free options. |
Verification: Supported. Backed by a CIR safety conclusion.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
8. Cons
Claim: Witch hazel can dry the skin, and clinical evidence for calming skin is modest. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Drying. Alcohol and tannins can dry the skin.
- Modest evidence. Effects on redness were small, and the eczema study was negative.
- Allergy. Rare, but possible.
- Drug overlap. Some witch hazel claims are reserved for OTC drug products.
Citations:
- Korting, H. C., et al. (1995). Comparative efficacy of hamamelis distillate and hydrocortisone cream in atopic eczema. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 48(6), 461–465. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8582464/
- What it shows: Negative eczema study.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 347 — Skin protectant drug products for over-the-counter human use (including 347.10 colloidal oatmeal, 347.12 astringents such as witch hazel, and 347.52 astringent labeling). https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: Drug claims.
- Korting, H. C., et al. (1995). Comparative efficacy of hamamelis distillate and hydrocortisone cream in atopic eczema. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 48(6), 461–465. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8582464/
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Alcohol-containing witch hazel can sting and dry the skin. Keep it away from the eye area.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- What it shows: Safety assessment.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Safety assessment of Hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics (final report). https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/HamVir032018FR.pdf
- Hughes-Formella, B. J., et al. (1998). Anti-inflammatory effect of hamamelis lotion in a UVB erythema test. Dermatology, 196(3), 316–322. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9621139/
- Korting, H. C., et al. (1995). Comparative efficacy of hamamelis distillate and hydrocortisone cream in atopic eczema. European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 48(6), 461–465. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8582464/
- Thring, T. S. A., Hili, P., & Naughton, D. P. (2011). Antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory activity of extracts and formulations of white tea, rose, and witch hazel on primary human dermal fibroblast cells. Journal of Inflammation, 8, 27. https://doi.org/10.1186/1476-9255-8-27
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 347 — Skin protectant drug products for over-the-counter human use (including 347.10 colloidal oatmeal, 347.12 astringents such as witch hazel, and 347.52 astringent labeling). https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR Part 346 — Anorectal drug products for over-the-counter human use. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-346
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
