Colloidal Oatmeal For Skin: Benefits, Uses, And Side Effects

What Is Colloidal Oatmeal?

Colloidal oatmeal is made by grinding and processing whole oat grains. It contains protein, fats, and other nutrients and works as an excellent emollient (skin softener) (1), (2), (3)

Colloidal oatmeal functions as a moisturizer, cleanser, skin soother, and protective anti-inflammatory agent. It contains ingredients with both moisturizing and antioxidant properties that help fight free radicals and delay the formation of wrinkles.

It is available in multiple forms, including creams, powders, and gels. It is typically found in bath and shower products, shampoos, cleansers, ointments, and moisturizers.

Colloidal oatmeal is replete with important nutrients. We will explore the same in the following section.

Nutrients In Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is obtained by grinding the whole oat seeds. It contains the following nutrients:

• 60% polysaccharides
• 10 to 18% proteins (glutamic acid and aspartic acid, which contribute to the oatmeal’s water affinity)
• 5% lipids (phospholipids and sterols)
• Starches, which are hydrophilic in nature and can absorb huge quantities of water
• Enzymes, flavonoids, vitamins, and phenolic acids

Let us now dive into the benefits of colloidal oatmeal for the skin.

Skin Benefits Of Colloidal Oatmeal

• Prevents Transepidermal Water Loss 

Natural colloidal oatmeal creates a film on top of the skin surface. Consistent use of oatmeal reduces the amount of lost water in the skin and boosts overall skin hydration. However, more research is warranted to further understand this mechanism. The starches in colloidal oatmeal may contribute to its water-binding properties (3).

• Helps Strengthen Skin Barrier Function

Our skin comprises the skin barrier that prevents water loss and protects the skin against various environmental aggressors.

However, several internal and external factors, like weather, UV radiation, or genes may damage this skin layer. Colloidal oatmeal may strengthen this skin barrier.

• Helps Fight Skin Inflammation

The polyphenols in oatmeal may possess anti-inflammatory properties (4). They may also protect the skin from harmful UV radiation. That said, you cannot use oatmeal as sunscreen.

•  May Soothe Irritated Skin

Colloidal oatmeal adds moisture to the skin and works as an emollient. It helps keep the skin soft and prevents irritation. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also offer relief to irritated skin and prevent redness and inflammation. Colloidal oatmeal is also believed to benefit those with eczema because of its fiber and cellulose content. However, information is less in this regard. Consult your doctor for more information.

Quick Tip

You can also use oats for spot treatment to soothe dry and irritated skin. Mix them with lukewarm water and leave them on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse well.

• May Act As An Effective Cleanser

While mostly present in thicker moisturizing creams, balms, and lotions, colloidal oatmeal naturally creates foam and works as an effective cleansing ingredient.

Are you wondering how you can use colloidal oatmeal in your skin care routine? Find out in the next section.

Ways To Use Colloidal Oatmeal For Skin

The saponins in colloidal oatmeal give it its remarkable cleansing properties (3). It can be used in skin care as:

• Moisturizer
• Cleanser
• Bath soak
• Scalp relief
• Face mask
• Exfoliant

Here is how you can use colloidal oatmeal for your skin:

• As An Exfoliant

Colloidal oatmeal’s grainy texture makes it an excellent scrub to clean skin and remove dead skin cells. It gently exfoliates your skin and adds enough moisture.

• During The Bath

Add a few cups of colloidal oatmeal to your bathtub to help soothe irritation. Soak yourself in the tub with colloidal oatmeal for about 15-20 minutes.

Arsy, a blogger who writes about food and beauty, loves oatmeal baths. She shares, “In my experience, oatmeal baths and masks have mostly been used to help alleviate pain. From a rash, sunburn or eczema (i).”

• To Treat An Itchy Scalp

Colloidal oatmeal is also recommended for those with an itchy scalp. Its anti-inflammatory properties can relieve irritation:

1. Take 1/3 cup of colloidal oatmeal and gently mix it with a pitcher of warm water.
2. Wash your hair thoroughly and rinse completely.
3. Gently massage the colloidal oatmeal mixture into your hair and scalp.
4. Cover your head with a shower cap for 15-20 minutes.
5. Rinse properly and air dry your hair.

• In Your Moisturizer

Moisturizers with colloidal oatmeal can be used two to three times a day. The oatmeal can also soothe your skin and offer added nourishment.

• As DIY Colloidal Oatmeal Soap

Those with sensitive skin can make their own DIY soap with oats to treat their skin. The oatmeal soap would help fight skin inflammation and redness. It also can help clear away the dirt and excess oils.

You would need a few basic, natural, or organic soap bars. Here is what you need to do:

1. Take any two organic soap bars and grate them into a pot.
2. Add 1 to 2 oz of chamomile tea and keep stirring to avoid burning or sticking.
3. Turn the heat off once the mixture melts completely.
4. Add 4 tablespoons of colloidal oatmeal and 2 tablespoons of regular oatmeal to this mixture.
5. You can also add other healthy ingredients of your choice, like honey, essential oils, or herbs.
6. Pour the mixture into muffin tins and let it cool for 24 hours before removing it from the mold.
7. Let the soap bars sit for a few days and dry completely.

Quick Tip

You can also make homemade face masks using colloidal oats, honey, and yogurt to reduce redness and soothe acne-prone skin.

While colloidal oatmeal has many benefits, it also may have some side effects. Read on to know.

Side Effects Of Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is generally considered safe for most people. There have been zero or minimal allergic reactions reported by 445,820 consumers of colloidal-oatmeal-containing personal care products within three years (1).

In another study conducted in a large group of adults, only 1% of participants reported low-level skin irritation after using a colloidal oatmeal patch for 24 hours (1).

However, it is recommended that you don’t use colloidal oatmeal if you have an oat allergy. Also, if you experience severe symptoms, such as a rash, burning sensation, or stinging, discontinue use and discuss the same with your healthcare provider.

Apart from the side effects of colloidal oatmeal, you also need to be aware of the necessary precautions you need to take before using it. Read about them in the next section.

Precautions You Should Take When Using Colloidal Oatmeal

It is always safe to check the ingredients thoroughly before beginning your treatment with products containing colloidal oats. Avoid products with any ingredient you are specifically allergic to.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for a non-comedogenic product containing colloidal oatmeal.

In A Nutshell

Frequently Asked Questions

Does colloidal oatmeal brighten skin?

Colloidal oatmeal unclogs pores and removes dead skin cells to give your skin a brighter appearance.

What is the difference between oatmeal and colloidal oatmeal?

The main difference between these two ingredients is that regular oatmeal is dry while colloidal oatmeal has a liquid base.

Does colloidal oatmeal tighten skin?

Yes, colloidal oatmeal may tighten the skin and reduce enlarged pores.

Can you leave colloidal oatmeal on your face overnight?

Yes, you can leave colloidal oatmeal on your face overnight, but it can make you feel uncomfortable when it dries up. Thus, it is recommended to wash it off after 15 minutes to an hour.

Is colloidal oatmeal good for rosacea?

Yes, colloidal oatmeal can be used to manage rosacea due to its moisturizing and skin-nourishing properties.

Is colloidal oatmeal good for seborrheic dermatitis?

Yes, colloidal oatmeal may be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis due to its moisturizing and soothing properties.

Is colloidal oatmeal gluten-free?

Yes. Colloidal oatmeal is generally considered gluten-free and safe for use by people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance

Does colloidal oatmeal expire?

Yes. Colloidal oatmeal can last up to two years when stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. Discard it if you see mold or if it changes in scent, color, or texture.

Can colloidal oatmeal be used for hives?

Colloidal oatmeal can be used for hives as a home remedy to soothe inflamed skin and provide relief from itching. You can take a lukewarm water bath with colloidal oatmeal to deal with the condition.

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Dr. Sreekar HarinathaMBBS, MS, MCh, DNB

   

Dr. Sreekar Harinatha is a double board-certified and award-winning plastic and cosmetic surgeon with 18 years of experience. He specializes in various cosmetic surgeries and treatments, including liposuction, gynecomastia surgery, hair transplantation, mommy makeovers, Brazilian butt lifts, rhinoplasty, lasers, and other skin treatments. He is also the author of the bestselling book titled, 'The Male Breast: What You Should Know...more

Arshiya SyedaSenior Editor

 

Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She holds a bachelor's degree in literature and psychology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a post-graduate diploma in psychological...more

Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal. She also did a certificate course in dermatology offered by the Novosibirsk State University...more

Swathi ESenior Beauty & Lifestyle Writer

Swathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach. Her interest in staying updated on beauty and lifestyle...more