Is Witch Hazel Safe During Pregnancy? (Updated 2026 Guide)
Updated April 13, 2026
The Answer
Yes, topical witch hazel is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Most witch hazel products (19 out of 29 reviewed) receive an A grade, though you should avoid formulas containing high concentrations of alcohol.
Witch hazel is a natural astringent commonly used for skincare, hemorrhoid relief, and minor skin irritations during pregnancy. While external use has not shown significant problems during pregnancy, safety has not been conclusively established through clinical trials. The main concern is alcohol content in some formulations, which should be minimized during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Safe is 100% independent and research driven. No companies pay to promote or sponsor products.
✓ What's Safe
- • Alcohol free witch hazel formulas (labeled 'alcohol free' or 'non alcohol')
- • Glycerin based witch hazel products for gentler application
- • Topical only products designed for external skin use
- • Products from trusted brands like Thayers, Dickinson's, or pharmacy brands
- • Witch hazel pads or wipes specifically marketed for hemorrhoid relief during pregnancy
✗ What to Avoid
- • Witch hazel products containing high alcohol content (check for alcohol, ethanol, or ethyl alcohol in ingredients)
- • Oral or internal use of witch hazel supplements or tinctures
- • Products with added fragrances or unnecessary additives
- • Using witch hazel on broken skin or open wounds without medical guidance
Most Common Ingredients in Witch Hazel Products
We analyzed 29 witch hazel products. Here are the most common ingredients, ranked by how often they appear:
Ingredients to Watch Out For in Witch Hazel
These are the most common flagged ingredients across 29 witch hazel products we analyzed.
alcohol
CAUTION
Alcohol is an intoxicating substance in beverages. Causes fetal alcohol spectrum disorder with lifelong physical and cognitive problems. No safe level exists.
Found in 6 of 29 products (21%)
ethanol
AVOID
Ethanol is an intoxicating substance in beverages. Causes fetal alcohol spectrum disorder with lifelong physical and cognitive problems. No safe level exists.
Found in 2 of 29 products (7%)
ethyl alcohol
AVOID
Ethyl alcohol is an intoxicating substance in beverages. Causes fetal alcohol spectrum disorder with lifelong physical and cognitive problems. No safe level exists.
Found in 2 of 29 products (7%)
Witch Hazel Products We've Analyzed
We graded 29 witch hazel products for pregnancy safety. 19 received an A grade.
Pregnancy Safe Witch Hazel Products
We found 19 pregnancy safe options. Here are some top picks.
| Grade | Product | Brand |
|---|---|---|
| A | Organic Tea Tree Witch Hazel | Sky Organics |
| A | Witch Hazel | Terravita |
| A | Witch Hazel Strawberry Flavor | Terravita |
| A | Witch Hazel Chocolate Flavor | Terravita |
| A | Witch Hazel Vanilla Flavor | Terravita |
Your Questions Answered
Is witch hazel safe during pregnancy?
Yes, topical witch hazel is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used externally on the skin. It's commonly recommended by healthcare providers for hemorrhoid relief, which is a frequent pregnancy complaint. However, you should choose alcohol free formulations when possible and avoid ingesting witch hazel orally. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about any product.
What are the risks of witch hazel during pregnancy?
The primary concern with witch hazel during pregnancy is the alcohol content found in many traditional formulations. While topical alcohol absorption is minimal, it's best to minimize exposure during pregnancy. Additionally, oral consumption of witch hazel is not recommended as its safety for internal use during pregnancy has not been established. Stick to external, topical use only and choose alcohol free versions when available.
Is witch hazel safe to use on skin while pregnant?
Yes, witch hazel is safe to use on skin while pregnant. According to Phytopharmacy: An Evidence Based Guide to Herbal Medicinal Products, no significant problems have been reported for external use of witch hazel during pregnancy and lactation. It's commonly used as a natural astringent for skincare and is a key ingredient in many pregnancy safe hemorrhoid treatments. Choose alcohol free formulas for the safest option.
Is witch hazel safe in pregnancy?
Yes, witch hazel is safe in pregnancy for topical use. Suppository and ointment formulations containing witch hazel are considered safe for treating hemorrhoids during pregnancy. The ingredient helps reduce inflammation and provides soothing relief. However, avoid oral supplements or tinctures containing witch hazel, and opt for alcohol free topical products when possible to minimize any potential concerns.
Can I use witch hazel for hemorrhoids while pregnant?
Yes, witch hazel is one of the most commonly recommended natural remedies for pregnancy hemorrhoids. It works as an astringent to reduce swelling and inflammation, providing soothing relief. Witch hazel pads (like Tucks) are frequently suggested by OB GYNs for postpartum care as well. Look for alcohol free witch hazel pads or apply alcohol free liquid witch hazel to a cotton pad for gentle application.
How Do We Score Products for Pregnancy Safety?
We analyze each product's ingredients and category to flag known risks and provide cautionary notices for general category safety concerns.
A - Safe
Excellent choice! All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy.
What to do: Use with confidence.
B - Likely Safe
Pretty much safe with very minimal risk. Some ingredients may have limited pregnancy studies, but no significant safety concerns have been identified.
What to do: Use with confidence.
C - Limit
Contains ingredients with some pregnancy considerations. Research shows these ingredients may have limited safety data, potential for minor hormonal effects, or require caution based on animal studies.
What to do: Use sparingly and consider safer alternatives when available.
D - Caution
Similar to C grade but contains multiple cautionary ingredients. The combination increases overall concern.
What to do: Try to avoid if that makes you feel better. If you've already used it, no need to panic.
F - Avoid
Contains ingredients with established risks during pregnancy. Research shows these can cause birth defects, developmental harm, or serious maternal complications.
What to do: Do not use during pregnancy. If you've already used it, don't worry - contact your OBGYN if concerned.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping well/drinking alcohol while pregnant/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7061927/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7807528/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fetal_alcohol_spectrum_disorder
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3297711/
- https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol/risks effects dangers/pregnancy
- https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF Guide/Drinking Alcohol in Pregnancy Fetal Alcohol Effects-093.aspx
- https://www.nature.com/articles/pr200789
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases conditions/fetal alcohol syndrome/symptoms causes/syc-20352901
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15677-fetal alcohol syndrome
