5. SUNBURN
Even with proper sun precautions and regular application of sunscreen, it can sometimes be hard to avoid a sunburn, especially if you have fair skin that burns easily.
One study looked at the effects of a lotion with 10% witch hazel content as an aftersun burn treatment compared to lotions without witch hazel. Those who received the witch hazel treatment saw a 27 percent redness reduction while the witch-hazel free group only saw an 11 percent improvement over two days of application.
Mix witch hazel in with pure aloe vera gel for optimal post-sun relief and to prevent skin cracking and peeling in the days to come.
Read Next: 3 Ways To Use Aloe Vera To Heal A Sunburn
6. HAND SANITIZER
Combine:
1 ½ tsp witch hazel
⅓ tsp vitamin E oil
15 drops tea tree essential oil
½ cup aloe vera gel
Transfer to a pump or squeeze bottle and use for up to 2 weeks. Because of the antimicrobial properties of witch hazel and tea tree oil, this hand sanitizer is a powerful disinfectant. Unlike commercial hand sanitizers, however, it does not use alcohol to dry out your hands and actually functions as a restorative moisturizer.
7. REDUCE UNDER EYE PUFFINESS
Ah, the dreaded purple shadows of a sleepless night.
Whether you were burning the midnight oil to finish your most recent project, up late with a crying baby, or simply have a genetic predisposition to puffy eyes, you have probably experienced this condition at some point.
Using an eco-friendly reusable cotton pad with witch hazel around the eyes regularly can help reduce the appearance of dark circles and decrease under-eye inflammation by tightening the skin.
Be sure not to get any in your eyes as this can cause lingering irritation and dryness.
8. INSECT REPELLENT
Mix 2 tbsp witch hazel, 5 drops of lemongrass essential oil and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and shake to combine.
Use this spray as a powerful insect repellent. It is safe to use on most surfaces including your skin and will not leave any nasty, chemical residue. Be sure to test on a discreet area before spraying on fabric.
This same concoction works to reduce irritated bug bites and prevent itchiness on human skin. Plain witch hazel applied to the bite with a reusable cotton pad can also bring down inflammation from flea bites, mosquito bites, and bee stings.
9. HEMORRHOID RELIEF
Make your own “Tucks” cooling pads with witch hazel.
If you are experiencing discomfort from hemorrhoids or other rectal or vaginal issues, the tannins in witch hazel can decrease inflammation and soothe mucous membranes.
These cooling pads can provide instant relief and are totally safe for use on your more sensitive areas.
Dip reusable cotton pads into witch hazel, being sure to allow them to soak up the liquid. Place cotton pads in the freezer for about an hour and use as needed.
You can also add a ½ cup of witch hazel to a warm bath for similar relief.
10. STOP BLEEDING AND DISINFECT WOUNDS
Witch hazel is a popular disinfectant and is not quite as painful as alcohol-based solutions. Witch hazel also has hemostatic properties meaning it can reduce minor bleeding.
Apply an alcohol free witch hazel to minor scrapes and cuts to help speed healing, staunch bleeding, and clean the wound of any foreign debris. It can also be used to reduce the appearance of bruises.
11. SCALP IRRITATION AND DRYNESS
Using a shampoo with witch hazel can help to rebalance the scalp and combat dryness. One study of almost 1,400 people showed significant improvement in scalp irritation and itchiness after using a witch hazel based shampoo.
This Grandpa’s Witch Hazel Shampoo is a good option.
12. SOOTHE RAZOR BURN
Splash on witch hazel after shaving legs or face to soothe skin and prevent unsightly, itchy bumps and ingrown hairs from forming. It can also help staunch the bleeding from any nicks or scrapes.
13. VARICOSE VEINS AND STRETCH MARKS
Varicose veins or spider veins are streaky, enlarged veins that often protrude from the feet and legs with a purplish hue and can often be unsightly and embarrassing.
Stretch marks are usually on the stomach or thighs and can follow incidents of rapid weight gain or loss such as pregnancy.
Though more research is needed to solidify the effects, the German Commission E, which evaluates herbal medicines for effectiveness has listed witch hazel as an appropriate treatment for these skin conditions.
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