Dear Friends,
Imagine starting your day and relying on just a few simple tools to keep you feeling comfortable, clean, and ready to take on the world. For me, witch hazel has become one of those tools—small yet powerful, it fits seamlessly into my daily routine. What began as a common skincare remedy has transformed into an essential part of my quadriplegia care, providing practical solutions to some of the challenges I face.
Living with quadriplegia comes with its share of complexities, especially when it comes to maintaining skin health, hygiene, and comfort. Over the years, I’ve discovered that small adjustments can lead to big improvements, and incorporating witch hazel has been one of the most impactful changes I’ve made. Today, I want to share how this natural product has become a cornerstone of my care routine and why it might be worth considering for others in similar situations.
The wonders of witch hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent derived from the leaves and bark of the witch hazel plant. It’s well-known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, but its applications go far beyond skincare. For someone like me, it has become a versatile tool for managing skin health, cleanliness, and comfort.
Here are just a few ways the wonders of witch hazel have improved my daily life:
1. Skin Care and Irritation Prevention Spending extended hours in a wheelchair often leads to skin irritation, redness, and, in some cases, pressure sores. Witch hazel’s soothing and anti-inflammatory effects have been a game-changer for preventing these issues. I use it regularly to keep my skin calm and healthy, especially in areas that are prone to irritation.
2. Maintaining Cleanliness Good hygiene is essential, and witch hazel is an excellent addition to my routine. I use it to freshen up during the day, especially in areas where moisture and friction can cause discomfort. It’s gentle on the skin, alcohol-free, and leaves me feeling clean without the need for harsh chemicals or overly complicated processes.
3. Supporting Wound Care With limited sensation, it’s easy to overlook minor scrapes or abrasions until they become a problem. Witch hazel’s mild antiseptic properties make it a great option for cleaning small wounds and promoting healthier skin. While I always consult my care team for serious concerns, witch hazel has been a helpful addition to my personal care kit for managing minor issues.
4. Easing Swelling and Discomfort Swelling in the legs and feet is a common issue when sitting for extended periods. A cool compress with witch hazel can help reduce puffiness and provide a bit of relief after a long day.
Practical, Affordable, and Effective
One of the best things about witch hazel is its accessibility. It’s inexpensive, easy to find, and requires no special equipment to use. A cotton pad and a bottle of alcohol-free witch hazel are all it takes to bring this simple yet effective remedy into your routine.
That said, it’s important to choose a high-quality product without unnecessary additives that could irritate the skin. I personally recommend looking for alcohol-free options to ensure gentleness and versatility.
A Few Words of Caution
While witch hazel has been an incredible addition to my routine, it’s essential to remember that this is just my personal experience. I am not a medical professional, and this letter is not intended as medical advice. Everyone’s body is different, and what works for me might not be suitable for someone else.
Before incorporating witch hazel—or any new product—into your care routine, I strongly recommend discussing it with your care team. They can help determine whether it’s a good fit for your specific needs and provide guidance on how to use it safely.
A Simple Change with Big Benefits
For me, living with quadriplegia is about finding ways to adapt, thrive, and maintain dignity in daily life. Witch hazel has become one of those small but impactful tools that help me achieve that. From soothing irritated skin to keeping clean and comfortable, it’s a product I’ve come to rely on for its versatility and effectiveness.
If you’re looking for natural, affordable ways to enhance your care routine, I encourage you to explore witch hazel—with your care team’s approval, of course. Sometimes, the smallest changes can have the biggest impact, and for me, witch hazel has been one of those transformative additions.
Take care, Sgt. Jordan Teegardin
Disclaimer: The experiences shared in this letter are personal and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before incorporating any new products or practices into your care routine.
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