Witch Hazel

WITCH HAY-zel

Conditioning Agent 7/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Natural Vegan

What Is Witch Hazel?

A plant extract from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub. Known for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, it is used in hair care for oily scalp control.

Source: Witch hazel bark and leaves (Hamamelis virginiana)

Origin: Natural

Also known as: Hamamelis Virginiana Extract, Witch Hazel Distillate

What Does Witch Hazel Do to Your Hair?

Acts as a natural astringent that helps control excess scalp oil production. Provides anti-inflammatory benefits that soothe irritated scalps. Contains tannins that tighten pores and help maintain a clean, balanced scalp environment.

Best For

Oily scalp, oily hair, itchy scalp, dandruff-prone scalp

Not Recommended For

Dry hair, dry scalp, color-treated hair (can be drying)

Concentration Matters

1-10% in hair products

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight
Color-treated: Use caution

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

7/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Generally safe for topical use. Some witch hazel products contain alcohol which can be drying. Alcohol-free versions are gentler. Can cause dryness and irritation if overused on the scalp.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA recognizes as an OTC skin protectant at 50% or greater concentration.

EWG Score: 2/10

HairAide Verdict

Useful for oily scalp control but choose alcohol-free versions to avoid drying out your hair. Good as a scalp toner between washes. Not for dry hair types.

Products That Contain Witch Hazel

Scalp tonics, oily-scalp shampoos, scalp treatments, clarifying products

Alternatives to Witch Hazel

If you want to avoid Witch Hazel, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Tea Tree Oil, Salicylic Acid, Apple Cider Vinegar

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Witch Hazel safe for hair?

Yes, Witch Hazel has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Generally safe for topical use. Some witch hazel products contain alcohol which can be drying. Alcohol-free versions are gentler. Can cause dryness and irritation if overused on the scalp.

Is Witch Hazel bad for curly hair?

Witch Hazel is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is Witch Hazel CG-method approved?

Yes, Witch Hazel is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Witch Hazel?

Some alternatives to Witch Hazel include: Tea Tree Oil, Salicylic Acid, Apple Cider Vinegar

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