Witch Hazel Acne

Acne is a skin condition that causes dark spots and blemishes as a result of excessive secretion of oil in the skin pores. Individuals of all ages at some point in their lives suffer from acne. Health therapists recommend that the best solution to get rid of acne problems is simply a healthy diet added with a healthy lifestyle. Physicians have numerous times stated that prevention is better than cure.

Herbal treatment has in contrast to over the counter medication proved to be a healthier and more effective approach. Witch hazel is one herb that has been used for decades to improve acne condition. Witch hazel originally known as Hamamelis Viginiana was used as medicine by the Native Americans to heal damaged skin. Today it is used in all kinds of skin care products such as after shave and moisturizers. The herb can distinguished by its oval shaped toothy edged leaves and unique bright yellow flowers. The barks, leaves as well as the twigs are used for medicinal treatment.

Witch hazel is generally known for being a good treatment for acne because of chemicals called tannins that acts as an acne fighting agent. Tannins in particular have a calming effect against inflammatory skin conditions, skin blemishes, redness and soreness of the affected areas. According to study it has been concluded that skin care products containing witch hazel are sanitized in a manner that the active tannins are removed therefore for an effective acne treatment it is favorable to make a homemade treatment. For self preparatory treatment 5 to 10 grams of witch hazel bark can be steeped into at least one cup of water. Since witch hazel can cause dryness it would be a good idea to use it in case of severe acne conditions and in minute amounts.