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HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA BARK/LEAF EXTRACT.

Valuable CAS 84696-19-5 / ASTRINGENT, SKIN CONDITIONING

Hamamelis Virginiana Bark/Leaf Extract, known as Witch Hazel, is a versatile botanical ingredient prized for its multi-faceted benefits in precision skincare. It effectively addresses inflammation and oxidative stress while providing potent antimicrobial support. Its astringent and soothing properties further refine skin texture, balance oil production, and enhance regenerative processes.

Summary

soothing antimicrobial antibacterial antioxidant astringent anti-inflammatory skin regeneration vasoconstrictor

Science

Mechanism of Action

This extract operates via several key dermatological pathways. It precisely modulates cytokine expression and NF-κB signaling, thereby reducing inflammation and supporting skin regeneration. Functioning as a potent antioxidant, it significantly reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS), offering protection against UV-induced damage and environmental pollution. Furthermore, it demonstrates antimicrobial activity against various bacteria and fungi. Its astringent action aids in tightening pores and reducing excess sebum, while its soothing properties and ability to act as a vasoconstrictor help in healing compromised skin by forming a protective layer. It can also mitigate fine-dust induced calcium influx in keratinocytes through PAR-2, NF-κB, and Occludin pathways.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 4.93 µg/mL–250 µg/mL%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Inhibits release of inflammatory mediators (IL-6, IL-17C, TSLP) in human keratinocytes relevant to skin autoimmunity and allergy.
  2. 02 Significantly reduced H2O2-induced reactive oxygen species accumulation in human keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts, with the highest dose restoring SOD activity.
  3. 03 Achieved over 75% reduction in biofilm for most Candida species within 5 minutes.
  4. 04 Reduced biofilm formation of E. coli and K. pneumoniae by over 79% after 24 hours (at 12.5 mg/mL), and showed 93% reduction for S. aureus and S. mutans after 24 hours (at 25 mg/mL).

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No specific data suggests this ingredient is commonly dusted at suboptimal concentrations; efficacy is concentration-dependent for specific benefits.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 5
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal stability is observed within a pH range of 3-5. Extracts are commonly prepared as hydroglycolic, hydroalcoholic, or glycerine/water-based. For skincare, alcohol-free distillates and extracts are highly recommended, as traditional witch hazel distillates may contain up to 14% alcohol, which can cause skin dryness and irritation.

Conflicts

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Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
1.8%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel concluded Hamamelis Virginiana-derived ingredients are safe when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. The highest reported leave-on concentration is 1.8%. High concentrations may lead to skin irritation and dryness, particularly around the eyes due to its astringent nature. Formulators must ensure the overall concentration of shared constituents from multiple botanicals remains safe. The FDA has approved witch hazel for OTC formulations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Hamamelis Virginiana Bark/Leaf Extract is a valuable ingredient, offering scientifically-backed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial benefits for diverse skin concerns, provided it is carefully formulated, ideally alcohol-free, to avoid potential irritation at high concentrations.

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