murphyHamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) extract
AKA: American witch-hazel, Witch Hazel Extract
Plant-Derived
Skin Conditioner
Extract
Clean
OriginNative to al Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner. Derived from the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana of the Hamamelidaceae family. Extracted from the whole plant using solvent extraction methods, typically with water or alcohol.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract is a cosmetic ingredient. Rated low hazard by EWG. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
Family
Hamamelidaceae (Witch hazel family)
Plant Part
Whole Plant
Lifeform
Shrub
Climate
Temperate
CAS #
84696-19-5
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Oiliness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Minimizes pores
Controls excess oil
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory0 listings
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 751)
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 751)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.00003–1.8%
Rinse-off0.000013–1.8%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2017 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: Kew POWO · CosIng · EWG · CIR