Witch hazel is an immensely popular skin care ingredient, prized for its astringent and toning properties. Native to North America and cultivated throughout Europe and Asia, the flowering shrub has long been valued for its antimicrobial properties and its refreshing and soothing qualities make it particularly helpful in caring for oily or combination skin. Witch hazel also contains important flavonoids that help to increase microcirculation and protect your skin against free radical damage.

Witch hazel’s rich tannin content – typically ranging from 3 to 10% of the total composition of the leaves – makes it such an effective astringent, helping to tone and refine pore appearance.