According to Healthline, the witch hazel plant originated from the US. Its leaves and bark are often diluted into liquid and used as teas (no, please don’t try it at home) and topical medicine for numerous ailments ranging from inflammation, skin irritation, vaginal dryness, tuberculosis, and more – a nod to the long history of this plant and the integral role it played in folk medicine and folklore.

But hey, no, the witches didn’t use witch hazel. The ‘witch’ in the name likely stems from the water witching process that witch hazel trees were often used for.

What are the skincare benefits of witch hazel? Many online users have shared that they often use witch hazel as a toner on their skin right after a shower or face wash. Witch hazel is a great alternative to any harsh alcohol-based toners. Some witch hazel users have reportedly seen minimised pores, lesser blemishes, and lesser excessive oil production.

On the flip side, Paula (founder of skincare brand Paula’s Choice) has repeatedly protested against the use of witch hazel, citing it may have long-term negative effects on the skin. However, Paula states that it makes sense to have witch hazel around the house to treat bodily injuries or insect bites.

Yes, you can also use witch hazel on your body safely, such as for irritated skin after you shave, to clean and moisture your intimate area, and to soothe haemorrhoids if you have them.

According to Paula, you can safely use witch hazel for:

• Bug bites and stings
• Hemorrhoids
• Bruises
• Diaper rash (witch hazel ointment, not the toner-like liquid)
• Poison oak and poison ivy

Keen to try out a witch hazel toner for yourself? Aside from the classic unscented, and alcohol-free Thayer’s witch hazel, here are three other witch hazel toners with great reviews:

This alcohol-free witch hazel toner ($19.59) comes with rose, cucumber, and calendula extracts, and is animal cruelty-free. The brand recommends this toner for acne-prone and oily skin types.

Another alcohol-free witch hazel toner ($16.81), this vegan and animal cruelty-free formula by Humphrey’s contains rose extracts for a pleasant scent and spa-like experience.

This witch hazel toner by Mario Badescu ($22) has earned itself lots of great reviews online – with praises spanning from soothing acne prone skin, clarifying dull skin, not drying, as well as its minimalist, recyclable, and reusable bottle.

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