Witch hazel bark
AKA: Hamamelis Virginiana Bark, Witch Hazel Extract, Hamamelis Bark
Plant-Derived
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
Witch Hazel Bark is a cosmetic ingredient.
Family
Hamamelidaceae (Witch hazel family)
Plant Part
Bark
Lifeform
Shrub
Climate
Temperate
Form
Powder
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
Traditional Use
Distilled from the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana, used by indigenous peoples for wounds and skin irritation. Became a staple in Western skincare and astringent products in the 19th century.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Oiliness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Jun 2026
Data: Kew POWO · CosIng · EWG · CIR