Ingredient Encyclopedia

Welcome to the Ingredient Encyclopedia

Discover what’s inside your skincare — from retinol to aloe vera — with clear guides on benefits, uses, and safety.

All articles active aha alcohol-free alias allantoin almond aloe-vera alpha-arbutin antioxidant ascorbic-acid avocado azelaic-acid b5 bakuchiol barrier benzoyl-peroxide beta-glucan bha botanical castor castor oil centella ceramides cica cleanser coffee coffee seed oil egcg emollient ferment general gluconolactone glycerin glycolic-acid green-tea humectant hyaluronic-acid hydration ingredient k-beauty keratolytic kojic-acid lactic-acid licorice-root mandelic-acid matrixyl micellar water moisture niacinamide panthenol peptides pha plant oil preservative retinal retinol rice salicylic-acid sensitive skin squalane surfactant toner tranexamic-acid urea uv uv-filter vitamin-a vitamin-b3 vitamin-c witch hazel zinc-pca

Witch Hazel Water (Hamamelis Virginiana) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 11, 2025

What is Witch Hazel Water?Witch Hazel Water is an extract from the Hamamelis Virginiana plant, often distilled in water. It has antioxidant and soothing properties, and is commonly used in toners and spot treatments.Benefits Soothes inflammation Helps reduce oiliness Antioxidant support Side Effects Can cause dryness or irritation in sensitive skin Alcohol-containing versions may sting How to UseApply as a toner or spot treatment after cleansing. Alcohol-free formulations are gentler.Related IngredientsSee also: Aloe Vera, Green Tea Related Guides Witch Hazel vs Micellar Water – Which is Better for Your Skin?

Learn more →