Witch hazel bark
AKA “Hamamelis Virginiana Bark, Witch Hazel Extract, Hamamelis Bark
Ingredient
Ingredient Facts
Witch hazel bark
AKA: Hamamelis Virginiana Bark, Witch Hazel Extract, Hamamelis Bark
Ingredient · Skin Conditioning · EWG: 4
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
See origin →
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
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: Kew POWO · CosIng · EWG · CIR