Witch Hazel Hydrosol

A natural, alcohol-free botanical distillate prized for its astringent, soothing, and oil-balancing properties in skin and scalp care.

INCI name: Hamamelis Virginiana Water

Steam-distilled water from Hamamelis virginiana bark and leaves

Alcohol-free (true hydrosol, not commercial extract)

Clear liquid with a light woody/herbal scent

Key actives

Tannins – gentle astringent, pore-refining

Flavonoids & polyphenols – antioxidant

Gallic acid – soothing, anti-inflammatory

Benefits

Skin

• Controls excess oil and shine
• Minimizes the appearance of pores
• Calms redness and irritation
• Helps with acne-prone and combination skin
• Gentle enough for sensitive skin when alcohol-free

Scalp & hair

• Soothes itchy or irritated scalp
• Helps regulate scalp oil
• Useful in scalp tonics and refreshing sprays

Typical usage levels

• Facial toners & mists: 50–100%
• Acne toners: 30–80%
• Creams & lotions (water phase): 10–40%
• Aftershave products: 50–100%
• Scalp sprays: 30–100%

Formulation tips

• Use as a partial or full replacement for distilled water
• Ideal pH range: 4.5–5.8
• Always preserve (hydrosols are micro-sensitive)
• Pairs well with niacinamide (≤5%), panthenol, aloe vera, zinc PCA, salicylic acid (low %)
• For dry skin, buffer with humectants (glycerin, sodium PCA)

Simple balancing toner example

• Witch hazel hydrosol: 70%
• Mulberry hydrosol: 15%
• Glycerin: 3%
• Niacinamide: 4%
• Panthenol: 1%
• Preservative (Liquid Germall Plus): 0.5%
• Distilled water: 6.5%
• Adjust pH to 5.0–5.5