Benefits of Colloidal Oatmeal In Skincare

When you hear “oatmeal,” you probably think of a warm, comforting breakfast. It’s packed with all the good stuff—vitamin B complex, vitamin E, protein, healthy fats, and minerals. Plus, it’s loaded with beta-glucan, a heart-healthy soluble fiber. But here’s a fun fact: oatmeal isn’t just for your bowl. Colloidal oatmeal is also a skincare superhero! Colloidal oatmeal is simply oatmeal finely ground.

In skincare, colloidal oatmeal works wonders, especially if you’re dealing with dryness, itchiness, eczema, or rash-prone areas. Many dermatologists even consider colloidal oatmeal to be medical-grade skincare, thanks to its long-standing reputation for treating various dermatologic disorders.

In this post, you will learn how to use colloidal oatmeal in skincare, and its benefits and uses in tackling skincare issues. Plus, you’ll get some fantastic DIY oatmeal mask recipes to try at home. Let’s get started!

What Is Colloidal Oatmeal?

Colloidal oatmeal, also known as Avena sativa, is a finely ground version of whole oat kernels. It’s a real star ingredient, boasting soothing, protective, and antioxidant properties. If you have dry, irritated, inflamed skin, diaper rash, or eczema, then you need to try this ingredient.

Colloidal oatmeal is a polyphenolic powerhouse with many benefits for soothing and relieving dry skin. It contains high concentrations of starch (65%-85%) and beta-glucans (5%), which help protect and retain moisture in the skin. Its proteins (15%-20%) and lipids (3%-11%) work to heal the skin barrier function. Additionally, avenanthramides, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and other antioxidants in oats provide impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Colloidal oatmeal is officially listed as a skin protectant and is recognized by the FDA as safe and effective for treating atopic dermatitis.

Colloidal oatmeal can be found in various skincare products, including bath treatments, cleansing bars, body washes, shampoos, lotions, creams, and shaving gels. If you’re feeling a bit crafty, you can even make your own formulations at home—stay tuned, as we’ll discuss how later in this post.

6 Amazing Colloidal Oatmeal Benefits

1. Has Anti-Itch Properties

If your skin is incredibly itchy and you’ve run out of options, give colloidal oatmeal a try. Oatmeal has been used for centuries to reduce itching. The avenanthramides in colloidal oatmeal help decrease contact hypersensitivity, neurogenic inflammation, and histamine-induced itch.

A 2001 study evaluated the itchiness experienced by patients with burn injuries by comparing the efficacy of liquid paraffin with 5% colloidal oatmeal to that of plain liquid paraffin. The results showed that the product containing colloidal oatmeal significantly reduced itching, leading to fewer requests for antihistamines from the patients.

2. Helps To Heal Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, often brings along itching, redness, and dryness. This condition, diagnosed by your dermatologist, disrupts the skin barrier, exposing it to inflammation, water loss, irritants, allergens, and pathogens. The skin’s pH in atopic dermatitis is elevated above the normal range (4.1 to 5.8), which can lead to an altered immune response.

Protecting the skin barrier is crucial in managing atopic dermatitis. This is where colloidal oatmeal steps in like a skincare superhero. It helps alleviate symptoms by restoring the skin barrier and even reduces the need for corticosteroids. Products that combine oat flour, oat oil, and oat extract have shown to be well-tolerated and effective in treating atopic dermatitis.

In a 2013 study, 49 African American patients aged 2 to 15 with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis were divided into two groups. One group used colloidal oatmeal cream, while the other used a prescription barrier repair cream, both applied twice daily for three weeks. By day 7, 63% of the colloidal oatmeal group saw improvement, compared to 54% in the prescription barrier cream group.

3. Homemade Therapy For Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, recurring inflammatory disease affecting 1-3% of the global population. If you’re hesitant about trying an oatmeal bath, take the plunge—your skin will thank you!

Oatmeal is packed with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturizing properties. The natural fats in oatmeal soften the skin and protect it against sun damage. Plus, it helps suppress the immune system‘s response associated with inflammatory conditions.

Oatmeal forms a protective layer on the skin, locking in moisture and preventing the water loss that’s common in psoriasis. It also strengthens the skin barrier, helping to heal psoriasis flare-ups.

How To Prepare An Oatmeal Bath

4. Protects The Skin From UV Damage

Exposure to UV radiation significantly increases reactive oxygen species. Applying colloidal oatmeal to sunburned skin can help protect it from UV damage, thanks to the presence of flavonoids in oats. However, it’s important to note that oatmeal is no substitute for sunscreens.

5. Moisturizes The Skin

Colloidal oatmeal is commonly available in moisturizing creams, such as those from the Aveeno brand. The starches and beta-glucans in oats are key to its protective and water-holding properties. Oatmeal is an excellent option for moisturizing dry or sensitive skin.

6. Acts As A Cleansing Agent

Colloidal oatmeal is a gentle and soothing cleansing agent that can help regulate the pH of the skin barrier. When your skin barrier is damaged, colloidal oatmeal’s buffering ability can help restore balance, making it an ideal cleansing agent. It’s also effective in shampoos and shaving gels.

Uses And Colloidal Oatmeal DIY

Colloidal oatmeal is made from whole oat kernels that have been finely milled and processed to serve as a skin protectant.

You can make your own colloidal oatmeal by blending whole raw oats. While it may not be as fine as commercially prepared colloidal oatmeal, it will still be effective. To check if you’ve blended the oats finely enough, mix one tablespoon of the ground oats into a glass of warm water. If the mixture turns milky, you’re good to go!

Oatmeal Bath and Face Mask DIY

The National Eczema Association recommends the “Soak and Seal” method for people with eczema. This involves bathing in lukewarm water—neither hot nor cold. Once you’re done bathing, make sure to moisturize your skin within 3 minutes to lock in moisture. This is the essence of the “Soak and Seal” method.

The National Eczema Association also suggests that individuals can add colloidal oatmeal to their bathwater or use it as a paste to relieve itching.

How To Make Oatmeal Bath

1. Fill your bathtub with lukewarm water (not hot or cold).
2. Pour one cup of colloidal oatmeal into the bathtub and mix thoroughly.
3. Soak in the tub for 5-10minutes
4. Rinse with lukewarm water or a gentle cleanser to remove any residue and stickiness
5. Apply moisturizer for extra moisture

How To Make Oatmeal Facemask

1. Mix 2 teaspoons of colloidal oatmeal with enough water to create a paste.
2. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser before applying the paste.
3. Gently rub the mask onto your face, avoiding the eye area.
4. Leave the mask on for 10-30 minutes.
5. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your face dry.
6. Finally, apply moisturizer to protect and hydrate your skin.

Best Colloidal Oatmeal Moisturizer

Key Takeaways

Versatile Skincare Ingredient: Colloidal oatmeal is not just for breakfast—it’s a powerhouse ingredient in skincare, known for its soothing, protective, and moisturizing properties.

Benefits for Various Skin Conditions: It’s beneficial for dry, itchy, eczema-prone, and sensitive skin due to its ability to restore the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.

Scientifically Supported: Backed by studies and recommended by dermatologists, colloidal oatmeal is recognized for its efficacy in treating conditions like atopic dermatitis and sunburn.

DIY and Commercial Formulations: Whether in DIY masks or commercial products like lotions and masks, colloidal oatmeal is accessible and effective.

Application Tips: Use it in baths to soothe the entire body or as a face mask to calm and hydrate facial skin. Remember to follow with moisturizer for best results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, colloidal oatmeal stands out as a versatile and effective ingredient in skincare. Its rich history and scientific backing make it a go-to solution for soothing and nourishing various skin concerns, from dryness and itchiness to more serious conditions like eczema. Whether you choose to incorporate it into your bath routine, create DIY masks, or opt for commercial products, colloidal oatmeal offers a natural, gentle approach to achieving healthier, more balanced skin. Embrace its benefits and enjoy the soothing relief it provides, knowing you’re giving your skin the care it deserves.