Oats, scientific name avena sativa, are a very special cereal grain, rich in fiber, vitamins, especially E and group B, proteins, fats and minerals. From oats a flour is obtained that is not only used for cooking but also boasts a long tradition as a natural cosmetic helpful to treat some skin disorders thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Colloidal oatmeal is a type of oat flour that is obtained by finely grinding the oats. The ready-to-use product has become available since 1945 and nowadays it is possible to find different products, such as shampoos, lotions, creams and cleaners based on colloidal oatmeal, but also pure colloidal oatmeal.
Colloidal oatmeal, the beauty properties proven by science
As proven by scientific studies (Ilnytska et al, J Drugs Dermatol, Jun 2016), colloidal oatmeal is moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, anti-histamine, purifying, cleansing and helpful to restore damaged skin barrier thanks to the substances contained such as saponins, starches and particular fibers called beta glucans (Cerio et al, J Drugs Dermatol, Sep 2010 - Reynertson et al, J Drugs Dermatol, Jan 2015 - Kurtz et al, J drugs Dermatol, Feb 2007). Therefore, given these characteristics, the colloidal oatmeal is an aid in case of various problems affecting the skin, of face and body, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, skin rash, dry skin, erythema, itching and diaper irritation. In particular, studies have also been performed to evaluate the efficacy of a cream containing 1% of colloidal oatmeal on people with atopic dermatitis. Well, after 14 days of application improvements in symptoms were recorded for more than 80% of the participants in the study (Lisante et al, J Drugs Dermatol, Jul 2017).
Colloidal oatmeal, where to buy and how to use it
Products based on colloidal oatmeal can be easily found in perfumeries, chemist’s and herbalist’s shops or online. Alternatively, you can buy colloidal oatmeal in its pure form. It is found in powder and in this case pay attention to read on the label the term colloidal oatmeal. You can prepare a bath to give relief in case of itching and dermatitis and to have a soft and hydrated skin. In this case begin to fill the bathtub with warm water, as the water flows add a cup of colloidal oatmeal and mix with your hand, fill the bathtub and at this point the water should be of a milky color. Immerse yourself for 15 minutes. This bath is also beneficial for the skin of small children and babies. You can also prepare a face mask with a cleansing, purifying, moisturizing and soothing action. Mix the colloidal oatmeal in a little water to form a cream, apply on the face like a mask and leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse.
