Colloidal Oatmeal – What Is It And What Are Its Benefits?

Colloidal oatmeal is an ingredient of natural origin that has become popular for its skin health properties.

According to a review article published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology , this is a soothing product that is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its pharmacological uses.

In fact, colloidal oatmeal is now available in a variety of forms, from shower powders to shampoos, shaving gels, and moisturizers. What are its benefits? What are its main uses? We will describe this in detail later in the article.

What is Colloidal Oatmeal?

Colloidal oatmeal is a product obtained after grinding oat grains (Avena sativa) into a fine powder. Today it is used in the cosmetics industry in the formulas of a wide variety of personal care products, especially skin care.

A study published by Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology states that its chemical composition is complex because it contains polysaccharides, lipids, proteins, flavonoids, minerals and vitamins. Moreover, it is an ingredient valued for its moisturizing properties, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

What are the benefits of colloidal oatmeal?

The nutritional composition of colloidal oat flour is responsible for its various benefits, especially in the treatment of dermatological diseases. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and softening properties, it helps to rebuild the skin barrier and helps to alleviate diseases such as:

• Rashes.
• Erythema.
• Itching and eczema.
• Dry skin.
• Atopic dermatitis.
• Burns.
• Diaper rash.

Emollients are substances that have the ability to soften and moisturize the skin to reduce symptoms such as itching and flaking. While they are available in many forms, colloidal oatmeal is distinguished by the fact that it is suitable for all skin types.

Research now suggests that this ingredient is also useful in combating the symptoms of dehydration, xerosis, or excessively dry skin. It is generally considered safe and well tolerated. It can reduce dependence on topical corticosteroids as well as mitigate their potential side effects.

Of course, it should be noted here that it is not a first-line drug against skin diseases. In case of burns, acne and dermatitis, be sure to visit a dermatologist to find out about other treatment options. Oat flakes are often a soothing additive.

How is this ingredient used?

The most common way to use colloidal oatmeal for skin care is to add a fine powder to the water while showering. However, as we mentioned above, this ingredient is also available in various gels, moisturizers, ointments, and many other products.

Be sure to use it in accordance with the directions on the label of the selected product. Also, if you are unsure, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Usually, colloidal oatmeal creams are applied to the affected areas of the skin as needed. In the case of dry hands, it is recommended to use the product with each wash.

Application for diaper rash should be done after proper cleaning of the affected area. In any case , care should be taken when applying to sensitive areas such as the eyes, inside the mouth, nose and genital area.

You should also be careful with cracked, flaky or scratched skin.

Is Colloidal Oatmeal Safe to Use?

Colloidal oatmeal is safe for most people. In fact, there is no information on the side effects of using this product so far.

Nevertheless, its use is not recommended in the case of a known oat allergy. It is also suggested to stop using the product in the event of a burning sensation or rash after application.

How to prepare colloidal oatmeal at home?

While you can buy ready-to-use colloidal oatmeal, you can also make it at home in a few simple steps. The obtained product is perfect for adding to the bath or for the preparation of natural masks.

You need

• 1/2 cup of whole oatmeal (125 grams).

• Food processor or blender.

Preparation

• First, put all the raw oatmeal in a food processor.
• Turn on the blender and blend until you get a light, fine, whitish powder.
• Then, mix it with a little water to check if it is ground enough. If the water turns milky white, it’s ready.

Colloidal oatmeal is an ingredient with a gentle effect on the skin

There are many reasons to use colloidal oatmeal as a skin care supplement. It is a mild ingredient that even sensitive people can use. Due to its composition, it helps to protect the skin’s protective barrier and combats dryness.

The most interesting thing is that it comes in many forms and can be prepared at home from whole oatmeal. Do you dare to try it? Remember to solve all doubts with a dermatologist.