generalStandard

Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water

Witch Hazel Water

antioxidantskin protectantsolvent

INCI Name

Hamamelis Virginiana...

Functions

3 Roles

Sustainability

9/10

Category

general

What It Does

Hamamelis Virginiana Water is a distilled aqueous extract obtained from the bark and leaves of the North American witch hazel shrub. This astringent botanical water contains naturally occurring tannins, particularly hamamelitannin, which provide gentle skin-tightening and pore-refining properties. Formulators value witch hazel water for its dual action as both a mild astringent and soothing agent, making it particularly popular in toners, aftershaves, and products designed for oily or sensitive skin.

Neutralizes damaging free radicals
Protects skin from environmental stress
Prevents formula oxidation
Supports anti-aging benefits

Technical Properties

pH Range

3.5-5.5

Optimal working range

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

humectantsemollientsnonionic surfactantsmost preservativesbotanical extracts

Avoid Combining

strong alkaline ingredientshigh pH formulations
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

9/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

plant-derived

Feedstock

witch hazel bark and leaves

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