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Witch hazel topical
  • Treatments
  • Minor Skin Irritation

Witch hazel topical

Generic name: witch hazel topical [ WITCH-Ha-zel-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: Hygenic Cleansing Pad, Medi-Pad, Neutrogena Acne Drying Gel, Preparation H Medicated Wipes, Sayman Soap with Witch Hazel, ... show all 13 brands
Dosage forms: topical gel (-); topical liquid (-); topical pad (20%; 50%); topical soap (-)
Drug class:Topical astringents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 5, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is witch hazel topical?

Witch hazel is a plant also known as Avellano de Bruja, Café du Diable, Hamamelis, Hamamélis, Hamamélis de Virginie, Hamamelis virginiana, Hazel, Noisetier des Sorcières, Snapping Tobacco Wood, Spotted Elder, Virginian Witch Hazel, Winter Bloom, and other names. Witch hazel is a liquid distilled from dried leaves, bark, and twigs of this plant.

Witch hazel topical (for the skin) has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating hemorrhoids, minor bleeding, and skin irritation.

Witch hazel topical has also been used to treat eczema. However, research has shown that witch hazel topical may not be effective in treating this condition.

Other uses not proven with research have included treating bruises or varicose veins.

It is not certain whether witch hazel topical is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. This product should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Witch hazel topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Before using witch hazel topical, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this product if you have certain medical conditions.

Witch hazel topical is thought to be possibly safe when used on a child's skin. Ask a healthcare provider about using witch hazel topical on a child.

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

How should I use witch hazel topical?

When considering the use of an alternative medicine, seek the advice of your do