Does witch hazel stop itching?

What can witch hazel actually do?

Witch hazel preparations are not interchangeable. Distillates and bark extracts contain different compounds, and clinical results for witch hazel distillates used on eczema have been mixed. The botanical name Hamamelis virginiana means witch hazel, not an extra qualification for the bottle. Choose by the actual product and its intended use, not just the plant name.13

Witch hazel bark extract reduced inflammatory signals in laboratory grown human skin cells exposed to conditions resembling eczema. That makes it a promising ingredient to investigate, rather than a reliable treatment for eczema itching. A facial toner is not a substitute for treatment directed at the cause of the itch.1

People with sensitive scalps reported improved irritation while using Erol Energy witch hazel shampoo and tonic in an observational study. A toner and a scalp shampoo are different products, even when the same plant has been hired to introduce both. Alcohol based scalp products can also dry and irritate the scalp, causing itching or burning, so adding another product is not always the helpful move.3

What should you use for itch relief?

1. 1Apply a cool, damp washcloth to the itchy area for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the itch settles. Pat or tap the skin instead of scratching.
2. 2After a cool or lukewarm bath or shower, apply a fragrance free moisturizer while the skin is still damp. Use moisturizer regularly and whenever the skin itches. Keep bathing brief and avoid perfumed soaps.
3. 3If moisturizer is not enough, ask a pharmacist about menthol or calamine for cooling relief, or a cream or gel containing pramoxine, a topical pain reliever. Antihistamines help some causes of itching, so describe your symptoms before choosing one.
4. 4If these measures do not help, or the skin develops redness, swelling, a rash, bumps or sores, arrange a medical assessment rather than continuing to add products.

What if the itching is eczema?

Eczema is a long lasting inflammatory skin condition whose main symptom is itching. Changes in the skin's protective barrier allow moisture to escape, while inflammation triggers itch. Scratching causes further damage and increases the risk of infection. Fragrances in skin products can trigger flares. Prioritize controlling dryness and getting the condition assessed, particularly if itching disrupts sleep, rather than trying to manage persistent symptoms with witch hazel.5

When should you see a doctor?

See a doctor if itching is severe, affects daily life, covers your whole body, keeps returning or does not improve with self care. A new rash, lump or swelling that worries you also needs assessment. Itching has many possible causes, including skin conditions, infections and reactions, so the right treatment depends on the cause.4

If you are pregnant, tell your doctor or midwife about itching. Although itching is common during pregnancy, it can sometimes signal a liver condition called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Do not wait to see whether witch hazel settles it.4