Blog
Oats as colloidal oatmeal can do much more
We all know what oats are and if you're one of the many with dry, itchy, eczema-prone skin, you might even use colloidal oatmeal on a daily basis. But do you know the full list of benefits you can get from it? What about its side effects?We need to know more about what we are putting on our face on a daily basis. Below we are going to break it down for you.
by Sora
April 22, 2024
Share
We all know what oats are and if you're one of the many with dry, itchy, eczema-prone skin, you might even use colloidal oatmeal on a daily basis. But do you know the full list of benefits you can get from it? What about its side effects?We need to know more about what we are putting on our face on a daily basis. Below we are going to break it down for you.
by Sora
April 22, 2024
Share
What is Colloidal oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal is a natural ingredient that has been used for centuries to soothe and protect dry, itchy skin. It’s made from oats that have been ground into an ultra-fine powder, known as colloidal oatmeal.
When this fine powder is added to bathwater or lotions, for easier application and absorption. It forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin and helps retain moisture. This makes it ideal for treating conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and other forms of dermatitis.
Colloidal oatmeal also works well in body washes and shampoos because it can help restore the natural pH balance of your scalp while helping to reduce itching and flaking caused by dandruff.
With its anti-inflammatory properties, this versatile ingredient can be used in many different skincare products to provide relief from various skin issues without causing any irritation or discomfort.
Benefits of colloidal oatmeal
Oatmeal is a classic ingredient that is commonly used as a soothing agent to relieve itchy skin and soothe irritation caused by dry skin conditions, but it also has a variety of functions.
Studies show that colloidal oatmeal can function as a cleanser, moisturizer, skin soother, and protective anti-inflammatory agent.Discover the many benefits of colloidal oatmeal in skincare below:
- Helps restore the natural pH balance of skin; Gently cleanse your skin
Colloidal oatmeal contains saponins, which have cleansing properties. Gently cleanse your skin without stripping it. Also help restore pH balance to your skin for less oily moments.
- Enhances and strengthens the protective moisture barrier of skin
Colloidal oatmeal comes in when skin is not performing this function optimally . Clinical studies have shown colloidal oatmeal helps to strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.
- Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that benefit skin
- Calming effect on itchy and irritated skin; Can be used to relieve itching from insect bites or rashes
Cellulose and fiber in colloidal oatmeal give it emollient properties that calm redness and irritation. Making it suitable for patients with mild-to-moderate eczema or ichthyosis as well as those with itchy skin and sunburns.
- Helps protect against environmental irritants such as pollution, UV rays and cold weather
Colloidal oatmeal strengthens skin barrier function and shields it from environmental stress factors. Studies show the phenols in the colloidal oatmeal also may help with absorbing UV radiation
- Reduces inflammation caused by eczema or psoriasis; Reduce redness for sensitive or acne prone skin types
Thanks to the phenols it contains, colloidal oatmeal also shows antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. It also restores balance to skin, making it extra suitable for acne prone skin with redness.
- Provides hydration without leaving a greasy residue behind; Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
Colloidal oatmeal works by creating a film on top of the skin's surface. After using colloidal oatmeal in studies, both the amount of water in the skin that was lost and overall skin hydration showed improvement. High concentrations of starches contribute to its water-binding properties.
Side effects of colloidal oatmeal
- Itchy sensations
- Irritation and redness of the skin
- Allergic reactions
- Clogging of pores due to its thick, sticky consistency
- Breakouts (especially for those with sensitive or acne prone skin)
- Formation of milia seeds in certain individuals
How to add it into skincare routine
Colloidal oatmeal can be used in conjunction with ingredients that can be irritating to the skin, such as alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids and retinoids, to help minimize irritation and disruption of the skin barrier.
Colloidal oatmeal can be used in conjunction with ingredients that can be irritating to the skin, such as alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids and retinoids, to help minimize irritation and disruption of the skin barrier. Adding it to your bath is another good idea. Combining it with medicinal honey before application makes its healing properties even higher.