Just wondering if anyone out there gets on with witch hazel based tonics/toners/whatever. I have been struggling with enlarged pores on my nose and it doesn’t matter how much Paula’s choice BHA/nip Fab pads/ The Ordinary salicylic acid I’ve used. I still have small bumps and the look of enlarged pores that leads to a polka dot makeup effect (even with primer).
Mild rosacea may well be the cause of the enlarged pores (my main issue is flushing) and this is also why I have tended to avoid witch hazel and alcohol based toners/exfoliants. I’m currently using Soolantra at night and have been trialing 20% azelaic acid cream.
What I have noticed is, that when I use a Clinique clarifying lotion 2 ( I’ll pause here as you all gasp in horror... I forgot I still had a bottle), my skin is better.
Now I know the alcohol isn’t good and probably causes a temporary dehydration of the pores making things appear better, but I wonder if it is the witch hazel in this product that is doing the work, as this one by Clinique has no BHA. I know there is an alcohol free version (1.0) that replaced the beloved mild clarifying lotion and now has BHA plus witch hazel. Would this be worth trying or should I just try the Thayer’s version or something else? Do some people with rosacea fond witch hazel to be ok?
Just wondering what people are/have used and what has worked. Thanks!