Utilization of Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) and Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) in Skin Care: A Review
Christine Cudmore, Ria Hamilton, Bridget Leonard, Masha Nadtotchii
Undergraduate Students, University of Guelph
Abstract
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) are historically significant botanicals widely incorporated into modern skincare, though clinical evidence supporting their efficacy remains variable. This review synthesizes current knowledge on their traditional use, botanical characteristics, propagation methods, chemical composition, and dermatological applications. Aloe vera, a xerophytic succulent, contains polysaccharides, vitamins, enzymes, and anthraquinones that support hydration, antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and wound healing. Hamamelis virginiana, also known as witch hazel, contains tannins, flavonoids, catechins, and phenolic acids that confer astringent, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, although some volatile compounds may cause irritation in sensitive skin. Both botanicals are widely incorporated into skincare formulations: Aloe vera is commonly found in moisturizers, gels, and creams for its hydrating and soothing properties, while witch hazel is frequently used in toners, cleansers, and spot treatments to address acne and reduce inflammation. Despite their popularity and expanding market presence, challenges persist regarding cultivation, wild-harvest sustainability, product quality consistency, and limited clinical evidence. Standardized, evidence-based evaluation is necessary to optimize the safe and effective use of these botanicals in contemporary skincare formulations.
1. Introduction
The skin is the largest organ of the human body and serves as a primary barrier against the external environment. It regulates internal homeostasis, preventing the entry of harmful microorganisms and chemicals, and providing protection from ultraviolet radiation (Hoang et al., 2021). Skincare refers to the broad range of practices and products aimed at preserving the skin’s health, function, and overall condition (Ahmed et al., 2020). Increasing consumer interest in “natural” skincare products has accelerated the use of botanical ingredients as alternatives or supplements to synthetic compounds. Within this trend, plant-derived extracts have gained substantial attention due to their wide range of bioactive properties — including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects — which can help maintain skin homeostasis, support tissue repair, and reduce damage from environmental stressors (Hui & Siegel, 2014). Among these botanicals, Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) are notable for their long history of topical use and their inclusion in many modern skincare formulations.
However, despite their long-standing use and widespread incorporation into medicinal and cosmetic products, comprehensive clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of these botanicals remains limited. As consumer demand and scientific interest continue to grow, this review examines the role of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) in skincare, with emphasis on botany, propagation methods, chemical constituents, skin care applications, and current market trends. The objective is to provide an overview of the current use of these botanicals in the skincare industry amid growing consumer use, thereby supporting evidence-based formulation and use in skincare products.
2. History of Useand Spiritual Significance
Aloe vera
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) is among the earliest documented medicinal plants, with its therapeutic and spiritual use traced back more than 6,000 years. In ancient Egypt, it was revered as the “plant of immortality” and incorporated into skin care practices, wound care, and embalming rituals due to its antimicrobial properties, which were thought to preserve both physical form and spiritual immortality (Shatrughna et al., 2024). Egyptian royalty, including queens Nefertiti and Cleopatra, incorporated aloe into their daily beauty routines (Surjushe & Vasani, 2008). Often combined with other natural ingredients, aloe was applied to nourish and protect the skin, preventing dryness in the arid Egyptian climate (McMullen & Dell’Acqua, 2023). The cultural and medicinal importance of aloe in Egypt facilitated its spread to other regions and established its lasting role in traditional medicine.
Early records from Greece, India, Mexico, Japan, and China describe aloe’s dermatological applications, including soothing skin irritations, promoting healing, and maintaining skin hydration (Shatrughna et al., 2024; McMullen & Dell’Acqua, 2023). Historical figures such as Alexander the Great and Emperor Nero acknowledged its therapeutic value for skin protection and wound treatment. Classical medical texts provide additional evidence of its early use. The Papyrus Ebers (1550 BC) documented its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects, while Sanskrit tradition referred to the plant as Ghrita-Kumari, meaning “young girl,” a name reflecting its association with vitality and youthfulness (Surjushe & Vasani, 2008). Around 50 BC, the Greek physician Dioscorides documented aloe’s efficacy in treating skin irritation, sunburn, and acne (Long, 2016).
Alongside its medicinal uses, Aloe vera has long held spiritual significance across many cultures. In traditional Indian Ayurveda, Aloe vera is believed to balance the body’s constituents, or doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—through its cooling and calming properties (Kumar and Yadav, 2014). In Greco-Roman, Middle Eastern, North African, and Latin American traditions, it is regarded as a purifying and protective plant, often placed near entrances to ward off negative energy, misfortune, or illness, and to support meditation and healing practices. A wilting aloe plant is sometimes interpreted as having absorbed negative influences, reflecting its role as a spiritual cleanser (Kumar and Yadav, 2014; McMullen & Dell’Acqua, 2023). Across cultures, its spiritual significance is closely intertwined with its therapeutic properties, symbolizing renewal, purification, and harmony of body, mind, and spirit.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) has a long history of medicinal and cultural significance, rooted in the ethnobotanical practices of Indigenous peoples of eastern North America. Groups including the Cherokee, Iroquois, and Menominee, used decoctions from the bark, twigs, and leaves to reduce swelling, treat bruises and insect bites, and promote wound healing, taking advantage of the plant’s astringent and anti-inflammatory properties (Setzer, 2018). European settlers adopted these practices and, in the nineteenth century, developed commercial distillations of witch hazel extract, forming the basis for modern topical astringents, toners, and ointments. One of the first commercial distilleries of witch‑hazel extract was established in 1866, building directly on Native American knowledge (Gapinski, 2015).
Beyond its medicinal applications, witch hazel holds spiritual and symbolic significance. Its flexible, forked branches were traditionally used as dowsing rods for locating water and minerals, a practice observed among indigenous communities and later adopted by European settlers. This practice, known as “water‑witching” or “dowsing”, likely played a major role in the plant’s naming and folkloric reputation as a “magical” plant (Raczka and Hardy, 2012). Some Native American groups also used the seeds ceremonially, for instance as sacred beads in healing rituals to assess patient recovery (Delaware Archaeology, 2005). While certain spiritual and ritual uses are well documented, many folkloric claims lack scientific verification. Nevertheless, the enduring popularity of witch hazel reflects both its demonstrable medicinal benefits and its deep historical and cultural significance.
From their origins as sacred plants in ancient traditions, Aloe vera and witch hazel have evolved into prominent staples of contemporary wellness. Their continued uses in skincare formulation reflect the unique botanical properties that underpin their efficacy.
3. Analysis of Botany
Aloe vera
Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as Aloe vera, is a xerophytic succulent belonging to the Asphodelaceae family (Martinez-Burgos et al., 2022). Xerophytic species are adapted to survive in arid environments with limited water availability (Martinez-Burgos et al., 2022). Although native to South and East Africa and parts of the Mediterranean, Aloe vera is now widely cultivated across warm regions globally (Maan et al., 2018).
Aloe vera plants are composed of a root system, shortened stem, fleshy leaves, and yellow or red flowers, and typically reaches 50–70 cm in height (Martinez-Burgos et al., 2022). The leaves form a basal rosette at ground level, a growth pattern that minimizes water loss and offers protection from environmental stressors (Martinez-Burgos et al., 2022). The leaves are also the most utilized part of the plant, as they contain the highest concentration of bioactive compounds (Martinez-Burgos et al., 2022). Each leaf consists of three layers: the gel, latex, and rind (Maan et al., 2018), as shown in Figure 1. The innermost gel layer, is soft, transparent, and mucilaginous, consisting of approximately 99% water along with glucomannans, amino acids, lipids, sterols, and vitamins (Maan et al., 2018). The intermediate latex layer contains anthraquinones, a bitter yellow sap, and glycosides (Maan et al., 2018). The outer rind is a thick 15–20-cell layer that protects the inner tissues and facilitates the synthesis of carbohydrates and proteins (Maan et al., 2018).
Witch hazel
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American witch hazel or witch hazel, is a broadleaf, deciduous, flowering shrub belonging to the Hamamelidaceae family. American witch hazel is native to eastern North America, extending from northern Florida to Nova Scotia (US Department of Agriculture, n.d.).
Witch hazel is characterized by its thin bark and wood, crooked branches, shallow roots and unique flowers and fruits (US Department of Agriculture, n.d.). The bark consists of two layers: an inner layer with a red-purple colour and an outer mottled light-brown layer with a smooth or slightly scaly texture. The shrub can grow up to 8 m tall and 15 cm in diameter, and it often produces suckers near the base of the stem (Natural Resources Canada, 2024). Its branches are slender and initially hairy, losing this hair as temperatures decline (Natural Resources Canada, 2024). The plant features widely spaced, asymmetrical leaves that range from 6 to 15 cm in length (Natural Resources Canada, 2024). Its yellow flowers consist of four small, twisted petals arranged in clusters which open in September to October. Fruits develop adjacent to the flowers as woody capsules containing two seeds, which mature the following year and disperse explosively several metres from the parent plant (US Department of Agriculture, n.d.; Natural Resources Canada, 2024). Figure 2 illustrates key anatomical features of witch hazel.
Figure 1. Diagram of key anatomical features of Hamamelis virginiana. Photo sourced from Kohler, 1897. Annotations by Bridget Leonard.
Medicinal compounds are present throughout various parts of the plant, including the leaves, bark, twigs, and stems. However, the bark and leaves contain the highest concentrations of bioactive compounds (Wójciak et al., 2025a). Most notably, the leaves contain 3-10% tannins, while the bark contains 8-12% tannins (Wójciak et al., 2025a).
4. PropagationTechnologies
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is traditionally propagated using conventional methods, including seed propagation, sucker transplantation, and rhizome cuttings (Cristiano et al., 2016).
Seed propagation is challenging, particularly for large-scale production, due to the species’ incompatibility to self-pollinate, and requires cross-pollination for seed fertility (Cristiano et al., 2016). Additionally, seed germination rates are low under in vivo conditions, ranging from 0–25%, but can reach 60–70% under in vitro conditions (Cristiano et al., 2016). Propagation via suckers and rhizome cuttings represents another conventional approach (Cristiano et al., 2016). The mother plant produces three to four suckers per growing season, which can then be transplanted. However, this method is not practical for large-scale production because it requires approximately two years, may damage the mother plant, and increases susceptibility of cuttings to disease (Cristiano et al., 2016). For large-scale and more efficient propagation, in vitro micropropagation techniques are increasingly employed. Direct shoot regeneration from leaf explants is a successful method, producing shoots within 4–6 weeks (Cristiano et al., 2016), following the procedure outlined in Figure 3.
Sterilization of plant material is essential, with disinfectants such as a combination of Bavistin and streptomycin, as well as sodium hypochlorite, commonly used to prevent bacterial and fungal contamination (Cristiano et al., 2016). Cultures are typically grown on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. Alternatively, micropropagation in liquid media using bioreactors can enhance explant multiplication rates and improve nutrient distribution (Cristiano et al., 2016).
Figure 3. Root regeneration for Aloe vera plant steps.
Witch hazel
The majority of witch hazel used in cosmetic products is wild harvested (Kemper, 2008). However, propagation of witch hazel is possible, with traditional methods such as seed and sucker propagation being the most common. Seed propagation is the primary method as it is the most reliable for growth success (Hughes, 2025) This process can take up to two years, as seeds require exposure to alternating warm and cold conditions. Seeds should first be planted in warm conditions for three months, then chilled for an additional three months, and finally returned to warm conditions, after which germination typically occurs within two to three months (Hughes, 2025). Once germinated, the plant should be placed in a shaded area. Witch hazel thrives in loamy, moist soils with a neutral to acidic pH and requires good drainage to prevent waterlogging (Hughes, 2025).
Sucker propagation involves removing suckers in early spring before new growth begins. Once removed, the sucker must be replanted more than 3 metres away from the parent plant (Hughes, 2025). Less common propagation methods include stem cuttings, layering, and grafting. Stem cuttings are typically taken from the tip in early summer and treated with a rooting hormone. Trench layering involves placing stems horizontally in the ground, allowing branches to grow upward due to reduced apical dominance (University of Florida et al., 2023). Grafting, particularly T-grafting, involves attaching a bud to the stem to form a new plant. This cut is performed low on the stem in late summer (Royal Horticultural Society, 2025; University of Florida et al., 2023). These alternative methods are generally less reliable than seed propagation. A summary of witch hazel propagation techniques is provided in Figure 4.
Figure 4. Propagation methods suitable for witch hazel: seed propagation (A), sucker propagation (B), stem cuttings (C), trench layering (D), and T-grafting (E).
5. ChemicalConstituents and Skin Care Functions
Aloe vera
Aloe vera contains approximately 75 bioactive compounds with properties that make it highly valuable in the cosmetic industry (Surjushe et al., 2008). It is rich in vitamins such as A, B12, C, and E, which function as antioxidants (Surjushe et al., 2008). The plant also contains eight key enzymes, including aliiase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase, and peroxidase, which aid in the breakdown of sugars and fats, with bradykinase specifically reducing inflammation (Surjushe et al., 2008).
Essential minerals including calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, and zinc support these enzymatic activities (Surjushe et al., 2008). Aloe vera also contains monosaccharides and polysaccharides derived from its mucilage layer, which contribute to skin hydration and repair (Surjushe et al., 2008). Additionally, twelve anthraquinones provide analgesic, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, while fatty acids and plant hormones offer anti-inflammatory effects (Surjushe et al., 2008).
Together, these chemical compounds make Aloe vera a versatile and valuable ingredient for various skincare formulations.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) contains numerous bioactive compounds that contribute to its efficacy in skincare formulations. Key constituents include secondary metabolites such as tannins, flavonoids, catechins, gallic acid, and phenolic acids (Wójciak et al., 2025a). Witch hazel’s high tannin content works as an antioxidant which inhibits metabolic enzymes at the molecular level which may help decelerate cellular aging (Durmaz et al., 2024). Tannins are also recognized for their astringent properties, including skin tightening, pore reduction, and regulation of sebum production (Liu et al., 2024). Flavonoids mitigate oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals, which contributes to both the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel (Liu et al., 2024; Wójciak et al., 2025b). Catechins similarly exhibit anti-inflammatory activity and support skin elasticity (Liu et al., 2024). Additionally, tannins and gallic acid have demonstrated antiviral effects by inhibiting enzymatic functions during viral attachment to host cells (Wójciak et al., 2025a). Phenolic acids also act as antioxidants, reducing skin damage and the effects of aging (Dzialo et al., 2016). However, while the individual bioactive compounds in witch hazel and their effects in skincare applications are well characterized, the specific mechanisms of action and interactions among these compounds remain poorly understood.
Furthermore, although the bioactive compounds in witch hazel may offer benefits for some users, some constituents may cause skin irritation. Witch hazel contains volatile compounds, such as monoterpenes, terpenes and alcohols (Wójciak et al., 2025a). Geraniol, a monoterpene commonly used for fragrance, is a potential allergen and can lead to contact dermatitis (Hagvall et al., 2007). Linalool, another fragrance compound, can similarly provoke irritation in its oxidized form (Bergfeld et al., 2018). Additionally, alcohols in witch hazel can exert a drying effect, which may irritate dry or sensitive skin and cause contact dermatitis (Lachenmeier, 2008). However, these reactions are generally not considered severe enough to render witch hazel unsafe for most users (Bergfeld et al., 2018). Therefore, the use of witch hazel of skincare should consider individuals’ medical histories.
6. Applications in Skincare
Aloe vera
Aloe vera exhibits strong antioxidant activity, which can help counteract reactive oxygen species responsible for skin aging (Zhu et al., 2024). Studies have shown that Aloe vera can stimulate collagen production by activating dermal fibroblast, reduce inflammatory cytokines, improve skins elasticity, and minimize wrinkles (Zhu et al., 2024). Another important application of Aloe vera in skincare is hydration and moisturization, attributed to its amino acids, minerals, and polysaccharides (Zhu et al., 2024). The polysaccharides retain water through hydrogen bonding to reduce evaporation, while the gel penetrates the skin easily to retain moisture (Zhu et al., 2024).
Aloe vera is also commonly used to manage various skin conditions. Studies have shown that it can alleviate acne vulgaris, a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by clogged hair follicles, excess sebum, and bacterial overgrowth (Zhu et al., 2024). Compounds in Aloe vera, such as anthraquinones and polysaccharides, possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that target acne-causing bacteria (Zhu et al., 2024). These bioactive compounds inhibit bacterial protein synthesis, disrupt microbial membranes, and suppress inflammatory cytokines, collectively contributing to acne reduction (Zhu et al., 2024).
In addition to acne, Aloe vera has also been evaluated for its potential to treat psoriasis. A double-blinded, placebo- controlled clinical trial using a 0.5% Aloe vera extract in a cream was conducted to determine the efficacy to treat psoriasis vulgaris (Syed et al.,1996). This study found that 83% of patients using the Aloe vera cream were considered cured, compared to 6.6% of the placebo group of patients. (Syed et al.,1996).
Traditionally valued for wound healing, Aloe vera has gained popularity in the cosmetic industry for treating skin ulcers from wounds, burns, and chronic conditions (Zhu et al., 2024). Aloe vera can reduce pain, erythema, and exudate, as well as promote growth factors, making it a valuable ingredient in facial wound healing products (Zhu et al., 2024).
Witch hazel
Witch hazel’s astringent, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties have led to its usage many skincare products. In both traditional and modern medicine, witch hazel has been used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis (Wójciak et al., 2025a). Skincare formulations, including toners, anti-aging creams, and lip balms, have identified as an effective first-line treatment for eyelid dermatitis, a challenging area to treat due to thin skin, higher sebaceous gland density, and increased exposure to external contaminants (Veronese et al., 2024).
Beyond dermatological conditions, witch hazel has been proven to manage inflamed skin and improve skin barrier function (Liu et al., 2023). These effects were indicated by decreased levels of multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines with improvements in skin hydration seen within 15 minutes of application (Liu et al., 2023). A study assessing the efficacy of various lotions in managing UV-induced erythema found that witch hazel effectively reduced inflammation, demonstrating greater anti-inflammatory activity than an antihistamine product (Hughes-Formella et al., 2002). Another study demonstrated that ex vivo application of witch hazel extracts reduced inflammation, evidenced by decreased levels of reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory cytokines (Liu et al., 2024).
7. Market Trends
Aloe vera
The Aloe vera market is substantial, driven by its widespread use in cosmetics, food, and therapeutic products. As of 2025, the market is valued at USD 2.12 billion and is projected to reach USD 2.96 billion by 2030 (Mordor Intelligence, 2025). Several factors contribute to this rapid market growth. A key driver is the overarching growth of the cosmetic industry, reflecting increasing consumer interest in personal care (Spherical Insights, 2023). Another significant factor is increased health consciousness among consumers. In skincare, the increasing demand for natural ingredients is estimated to contribute 1.2% to the forecasted compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of the Aloe vera market (Mordor Intelligence, 2025). Consumers increasingly examine product ingredient labels, seeking clean and natural formulations, and Aloe vera is widely regarded as a safe and natural component (Nagrik et al., 2024). Consequently, cosmetic brands are prominently featuring Aloe vera on packaging to appeal to health-conscious buyers (Coherent Market Insights, 2024). Market analytics demonstrate strong consumer willingness to pay premium for such products, with Aloe vera–infused serums and moisturizers priced 15–20% above market standards (Mordor Intelligence, 2025).
Witch hazel
The global market for witch hazel products is expanding rapidly. Facial toners are the most prominent product type, accounting for 49.3% of the market share (Future Marketing Insights, 2025a) and consistently exhibiting the highest search volume on Google Trends (Google Trends, 2025). The witch hazel toner market alone is projected to expand from USD 1.0521 billion in 2025 to USD 3.1021 billion, corresponding to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.4% (Future Marketing Insights, 2025b). This nearly 193% increase is driven by heightened consumer awareness of ingredients and the growing demand for natural, efficacious products. Specifically, the consumer preference for alcohol-free witch hazel toners has rapidly increased, as consumers seek gentler products that balance oil control with hydration (Future Marketing Insights, 2025a). This has led to a major transition, with the alcohol-free toners being protected to account for 54.2% of the market share in 2025, making it the fastest growing and most popular segment (Future Marketing Insights, 2025b).
7.1 Influence of Social Media
The skincare market has been profoundly influenced by the rise of social media marketing and e-commerce. Emerging trends, such as clean beauty, emphasize wellness and transparency in ingredient use, driving consumer preference toward natural, effective, and sustainable compounds, including witch hazel and Aloe vera (Xie et al., 2024). E-commerce platforms have played a critical role in the growth of the witch hazel toner market, particularly among Millennial and Gen Z consumers, as social media–driven campaigns substantially enhance product visibility (Future Marketing Insights, 2025a). Similarly, Aloe vera has experienced significant online traction, ranking as the most searched skincare ingredient in 2021 (Agnew, 2021).
7.2 Market Challenges
The production and commercialization of Aloe vera and witch hazel face a range of challenges that constrain market growth and sustainability. Understanding these obstacles is critical for identifying strategies to strengthen market stability and improve product reliability. A summary of the key challenges affecting both Aloe vera and witch hazel is presented in Figure 5.
Figure 5. Summary of Market Challenges for Witch hazel and Aloe vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a labor-intensive crop. Although it is commonly cultivated on large-scale farms, it requires manual pollination and leaf harvesting, resulting in high production costs that can limit market growth (Coherent Market Insights, 2024). Production is further affected by supply chain vulnerabilities associated with climate volatility. Key production regions, such as Mexico and the Dominican Republic, have recently experienced extreme weather events: in 2024, droughts in southern Mexico reduced Aloe vera yields by 30%, while storms in the Dominican Republic damaged processing facilities, decreasing global supply elasticity (Mordor Intelligence, 2025).
Beyond production, consumer concerns also limit market expansion. Adulteration of aloe products is a major concern, with dried powdered aloe forms frequently being diluted with undeclared ingredients such as maltodextrin or sucrose (Bejar, 2019). While the frequency and extent of adulteration vary across studies, these issues have undermined consumer trust, negatively impacted market growth and forecasted CAGR (Mordor Intelligence, 2025). These issues undermine consumer trust in Aloe vera products and negatively impact market growth (Mordor Intelligence, 2025). Additional concerns involve potential carcinogenicity. A study in rats indicated that topical application of Aloe vera over one-year enhanced photocarcinogenic activity (National Toxicology Program, 2010). Moreover, Aloe vera has been classified as a Group 2B carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, highlighting its potential as a human carcinogen. This classification applies to whole leaf extracts, gel, and latex forms (Guo & Mei, 2016). Such safety concerns influence consumer perceptions and marketability.
Witch hazel
Like Aloe vera, witch hazel faces a range of production and market challenges, influencing consumer perception. It is similarly labor-intensive, but unlike Aloe vera, witch hazel is primarily sourced from wild plants in the eastern United States (Kemper, 2008). Harvesting requires specialized techniques known by few, with the industry being primarily supplied by approximately eight families of experienced cutters. As these cutters age, concerns have emerged regarding the future sustainability of the supply chain, highlighting the vulnerability of the supply chain (Kemper, 2008).
Witch hazel’s marketability challenges primarily stem from formulation. Traditional witch hazel products often contain alcohol, which can be drying and irritating for some consumers (Research and Market, 2025). Additionally, certain constituents, such as Geraniol, may induce skin sensitivity, which can limit its appeal. Quality and composition can also vary depending on the plant source and extraction method, undermining consumer trust (Wójciak et al., 2025a). Factors contributing to this variability include the plant parts used, which contain different levels of active compounds, and the extraction method employed, such as steam versus alcohol distillation, which alters the chemical profile (Lab Alley, 2025). Furthermore, growing competition from other natural astringents, such as rosewater and green tea extract, has further constrained the market (Research and Market, 2025).
8. Future Research
Addressing the challenges surround Aloe vera and witch hazel formulations is essential for mitigating risks to consumers and maintaining robust markets. For Aloe vera, stricter regulations to prevent adulteration are necessary, alongside further investigation into its potential carcinogenicity. For witch hazel, research should focus on refining formulations and processing techniques to reduce skin irritation. Additionally, more clinical trials are needed to better understand the efficacy and mechanisms of witch hazel.
Beyond these immediate concerns, both Aloe vera and witch hazel would benefit from continued clinical research to fully exploit their beneficial properties for use in skincare applications. Further research into synergistic or antagonist interactions with other skincare ingredients could inform the development of optimized combination products (Liu et al., 2024; Wójciak et al., 2025a). Furthermore, innovations in formulation and delivery systems have the potential to improve the stability, penetration, and controlled release of active compounds, enhancing product performance and efficiency for consumers while supporting market growth (Sisodia et al., 2025).
9. Conclusion
This review highlights the historical and modern uses of Aloe vera and witch hazel in skincare, including their propagation, chemical composition, and dermatological applications. Their bioactive compounds support treatment of common skin conditions, as well as enhancement of hydration, skin barrier function, and overall skin well-being. The widespread inclusion of these botanicals in cosmetic products reflects both their functional benefits and strong market demand. Nonetheless, challenges remain in production, formulation, and clinical validation, emphasizing the need for ongoing research to ensure safe, effective, and sustainable use in skincare.
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