Since October is Halloween month, I thought we could discuss "Witches." Not the scary ones... let's talk about the attributes of "Witch Hazel." I remember seeing Witch Hazel on my mother's makeup dresser as part of her daily routine. I was surprised to learn about all its benefits.
Witch Hazel is a tree-like plant indigenous to North America and parts of Asia and has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. It can help with acne, blisters, bug bites, poison ivy, inflammation, sore throat, and hemorrhoids, and it soothes sunburn by reducing inflammation and redness. It can tighten pores and help remove grime and excess traces of makeup even after washing with a cleanser.
Another skin benefit is for soothing puffy eyes. Soak cotton balls in alcohol-free Witch Hazel, squeeze out excess liquid, and carefully dab under the eyes for about 10 minutes. Many dermatologists love it as part of a skin routine because of its many helpful attributes. (Note: It is mainly for external use due to the possible stomach upset from the tannins; never put it in directly in your eye.) Test a small skin area first, like your arm for sensitivity. Before using, if you have questions, consult your doctor for advice.
Ready to see if Witch Hazel is magical for you?
By Sharon Groves
Sharon Groves covers health, wellness, and lifestyle topics for the ARA newsletter, helping readers make informed decisions about their wellbeing in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
Sharon's memory of seeing Witch Hazel on her mother's dresser brings back memories for a lot of us. As we age, our skin tends to become more sensitive and dry, making gentle, natural remedies like Witch Hazel particularly valuable. Many seniors find it especially helpful for minor skin irritations that become more common with age, like dry patches or small cuts that heal more slowly.
Here's something many people don't realize: Witch Hazel products can vary significantly in quality and alcohol content. Look for alcohol-free versions from trusted brands like Thayers or Dickinson's, which you can find at most pharmacies including CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that alcohol-free formulations are gentler on mature skin, which produces less natural oil as we get older.
If you're dealing with common senior skin concerns like age spots, minor varicose vein discomfort, or general skin sensitivity, Witch Hazel might be worth trying. Just remember Sharon's advice about testing a small area first, and if you're taking blood thinners or other medications, check with your doctor before adding any new topical treatments to your routine. A little natural care can go a long way toward keeping your skin comfortable and healthy.