If you’re a skincare enthusiast, then you must have heard about witch hazel and its numerous benefits. This natural ingredient has been used for centuries to soothe and treat various skin issues such as acne, inflammation, and irritation.
But there’s still confusion on how to use it effectively in a skincare routine– should it be used before or after moisturizer? In this article, we’ll be clarifying the confusion surrounding witch hazel and when it’s best to use it.
Use Witch Hazel before moisturising. In terms of skincare routine, witch hazel typically functions as a toner, helping to restore the balance of your skin’s pH after cleansing. Therefore, witch hazel is best utilized within a skincare routine as a toner due to its ability to re-balance skin pH after cleansing.
Here is the recommended sequence would be:
- Cleansing: Start by washing your face thoroughly with your preferred cleanser. This will remove any dirt, oil, or makeup that’s accumulated on your skin.
- Toning: Pat your face dry with a soft cloth, then apply a formulation of Thayers Witch Hazel. As a toner, witch hazel is designed to re-balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for subsequent skincare steps.
- Moisturizing: Finally, after you’ve used the witch hazel, apply a moisturizing cream or serum. The toner will have prepared your skin to absorb the moisturizer more effectively.
How to use it before moisturizing?
Witch hazel is best utilized within a skincare routine as a toner due to its ability to re-balance skin pH after cleansing. Below are the recommended steps for incorporating witch hazel into your skincare routine:
- Step 1: Start by cleansing your face thoroughly. This helps to remove any impurities or excess oil that have accumulated on your skin throughout the day.
- Step 2: Pat your face dry using a soft cloth, avoiding rubbing as this can irritate the skin.
- Step 3: Apply your chosen witch hazel formulation, such as Thayers Witch Hazel, with a cotton pad or clean hands, paying particular attention to oily or problematic areas. Witch hazel acts as a toner, meaning it should be applied after cleansing and before moisturizing.
- Step 4: Allow the witch hazel to absorb into your skin for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.
- Step 5: Finish by applying a moisturizing cream or serum. This will help to lock in the beneficial properties of the witch hazel and provide additional hydration to the skin.
If you follow this order in your skincare routine, it ensures that each product can perform at its best, with witch hazel acting to refine and prep the skin prior to moisturizing.
By following this order – cleanse, tone, and then moisturize – you can ensure that you’re using witch hazel and your moisturizer in the most effective way to promote healthy, balanced skin.
Witch hazel is a powerful astringent that helps tighten pores, reduce inflammation, and control excess oil production. It also contains antioxidants that protect the skin against free radicals that can cause premature ageing. However, using witch hazel incorrectly can lead to dryness or irritation. Therefore, it’s essential to know when to use it in your routine for maximum benefit.
So let’s dive into the details of whether you should use witch hazel before or after moisturizer.
Understanding The Benefits Of Witch Hazel
If you’re looking for a natural way to cleanse and tone your skin, witch hazel is an excellent option.
One of the main benefits of using witch hazel is that it can help to minimize the appearance of pores and reduce inflammation. This is because it contains tannins, which are a type of antioxidant that can help to soothe the skin and reduce redness.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using witch hazel.
For example, if you have very dry or sensitive skin, it may be too harsh and could cause irritation.
Additionally, while many people use witch hazel as a natural toner, it’s important to keep in mind that it doesn’t contain any moisturizing properties.
As such, if you do choose to use witch hazel as part of your skincare routine, it’s essential to follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Other alternative uses for witch hazel include using it as a natural makeup remover or adding it to your bathwater for a relaxing soak.
The Science Behind Witch Hazel
After understanding the benefits of witch hazel, it’s important to know how to properly incorporate it into your skincare routine.
One common question people have is whether they should use witch hazel before or after moisturizer. The answer ultimately depends on the type of witch hazel product you are using and your personal preference.
Firstly, it’s important to note that not all witch hazel products are created equal. Some toners contain alcohol, which can be harsh and dry on the skin. On the other hand, witch hazel extraction is a gentler option that can still provide many of the same benefits without causing irritation.
If you are using an alcohol-based toner, it may be best to apply it before your moisturizer to help remove any excess oil or impurities from the skin. However, if you are using a pure witch hazel extraction, applying it after moisturizer can help lock in hydration and soothe any potential irritation from other skincare products.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to experiment with different application methods and see what works best for your skin.
To further clarify how to properly use witch hazel in your skincare routine, here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Witch hazel extraction is a gentler option compared to alcohol-based toners.
- If using an alcohol-based toner, apply it before moisturising.
- For pure witch hazel extraction, apply after moisturizer for added hydration.
- Experiment with different application methods to find what works best for your skin.
By understanding the science behind witch hazel extraction and how it compares to alcohol-based toners, as well as following these key tips for application, you can make the most out of this versatile ingredient in your skincare routine.
The Importance Of A Skincare Routine
Creating a consistent skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy and glowing skin. It involves cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. However, it’s not just about the steps you take but also the products you use.
The importance of using quality products cannot be overstated. Using products that are suited to your skin type and concerns can make all the difference.
For instance, if you have oily skin, using a heavy moisturizer can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. Additionally, it’s crucial to read the ingredients list and avoid any harsh chemicals or fragrances that can irritate your skin.
By investing in quality skincare products that work for you, you can achieve better results and maintain healthy skin in the long run.
When To Use Witch Hazel In Your Routine
In the previous section, we talked about the importance of having a skincare routine. Now that you understand why it’s essential to have one, let’s dive into when to use witch hazel in your routine. This natural astringent has been used for centuries for its ability to cleanse and soothe the skin.
Firstly, consider whether you want to use witch hazel in the morning or nighttime. If you’re using it in the morning, it can help reduce oiliness and give your skin a refreshing start to the day. However, if you’re using it at night, it can help remove any excess dirt and oil that may have accumulated throughout the day.
Here are some other things to keep in mind when incorporating witch hazel into your routine:
- If you have acne-prone skin, using witch hazel after cleansing can help reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts.
- If you’re looking for an anti-ageing solution, try using witch hazel as part of your nighttime routine to tighten and firm your skin.
- Make sure to follow up with a moisturizer after using witch hazel to prevent dryness.
- Always patch test before using any new product on your face.
By considering these factors and incorporating witch hazel appropriately into your skincare routine, you can experience its benefits without any confusion or irritation. Remember that everyone’s skin is unique, so finding what works best for you may take some trial and error.
Tips For Using Witch Hazel Safely And Effectively
Pre Moisturizer Use:
When it comes to using witch hazel, the order of application is important. Many people wonder if they should use witch hazel before or after moisturizer. The general consensus is to use witch hazel as a pre-moisturizing step in your skincare routine.
This helps to remove any excess oil, dirt or makeup from your face and prepare your skin for better absorption of moisturizer. Simply apply a small amount of witch hazel to a cotton pad and swipe it over your face before applying your moisturizer.
Dosage Recommendations:
While witch hazel is generally safe for most skin types, it’s important to follow dosage recommendations. Using too much can lead to dryness or irritation.
It’s best to start with small amounts and gradually increase as needed. You may also want to patch test on a small area of your skin before incorporating it into your daily routine. If you experience any redness, itching or burning, discontinue use immediately.
Incorporating witch hazel into your skincare routine can provide many benefits for your skin, including reducing inflammation and acne, tightening pores and improving overall complexion.
By using it as a pre-moisturizing step and following dosage recommendations, you can safely and effectively reap the benefits of this natural ingredient in your daily routine.
Conclusion
So, should you use witch hazel before or after moisturizer? The answer ultimately depends on your personal preference and skin type. However, understanding the benefits of witch hazel and the science behind its effectiveness can help clarify any confusion.
Remember to incorporate witch hazel into a consistent skincare routine and consider using it after cleansing but before applying moisturizer.
Always patch-test new products and be mindful of any potential irritation or allergies.
With these tips in mind, you can safely and effectively incorporate witch hazel into your skincare routine for glowing, healthy-looking skin.
