Doctor, What Are the Benefits of Using Oats for the Skin?

Oats—commonly referred to as colloidal oatmeal in skincare—have secured a valuable role in dermatological practice, particularly for managing sensitive, allergic, and eczema-prone skin. Supported by recent clinical studies, oats are recognized not only for their traditional soothing properties but also for their scientifically validated anti-inflammatory, barrier-repairing, moisturizing, and antioxidant effects.

Here is a comprehensive overview of the dermatological benefits of oats, backed by current research.

What Are Oats?

Oats (Avena sativa) used in skincare are typically processed into colloidal oatmeal—a fine powder obtained by grinding and steaming whole oat kernels. This form has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a skin protectant. Colloidal oatmeal is incorporated into moisturizers, cleansers, and bath preparations to relieve symptoms of dermatitis, itching, and dry skin.

10 Evidence-Based Benefits of Oats for the Skin

1. Gentle Face Cleanser
Oats contain saponins, which act as natural surfactants, allowing them to cleanse the skin without stripping its natural oils. This makes oats ideal for sensitive and dry skin types. Based on your skin needs, homemade oat-based cleansers can be tailored to hydrate, calm, or mildly exfoliate.

2. Eczema Relief
Multiple studies have demonstrated that colloidal oatmeal significantly reduces eczema-related symptoms by enhancing skin hydration, repairing the barrier, and modulating inflammatory pathways. A 2020 randomized trial confirmed that colloidal oatmeal lotion improved symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis within one week of use.

3. Mild Exfoliant for Sensitive Skin
Due to their texture, finely ground oats provide gentle physical exfoliation, making them suitable for patients who cannot tolerate conventional exfoliants like alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids.

4. Natural Moisturizer
Oats are rich in polysaccharides, lipids, and proteins that deliver humectant, occlusive, and emollient benefits. These compounds help retain moisture, making oats an excellent base for hydrating formulations.

5. Protection Against Environmental Stressors
Oats are a potent source of antioxidants, including avenanthramides and ferulic acid, which neutralize free radicals generated by UV radiation and pollution. A 2022 review highlighted oats’ ability to reduce oxidative stress-induced skin damage, making them effective in anti-aging skincare.

6. Relief for Sunburnt Skin
Thanks to their anti-inflammatory and barrier-restoring properties, colloidal oatmeal helps soothe sunburn-related irritation and erythema. Cooling oat compresses or oat-infused baths can support skin recovery post UV exposure.

7. Atopic Dermatitis in Children
Oat-based baths are widely recommended in pediatric dermatology to relieve itch and inflammation in children with atopic dermatitis. Colloidal oatmeal is well tolerated and can be used in lukewarm bathwater for daily symptom control.

8. Itch Reduction in Various Conditions
Oats have been shown to inhibit the release of histamine and other mediators involved in pruritus. Their anti-pruritic effects are helpful in conditions ranging from xerosis and allergic contact dermatitis to fungal infections.

9. Supportive Care in Psoriasis
Although not curative, oats can provide symptomatic relief in psoriasis by calming inflamed plaques and improving skin hydration, as noted in clinical guidelines for supportive psoriasis care.

10. Oats as a Natural Dry Shampoo
A simple mixture of ground oats and baking soda can be used as a dry shampoo. It absorbs excess scalp oil and refreshes hair between washes, making it a convenient and natural alternative to commercial aerosols.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Oats are generally safe for topical use. However, rare cases of skin sensitivity or allergic reactions have been reported, especially in individuals with eczema. Patch testing is advisable before regular use in sensitive patients. Additionally, those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease should proceed with caution due to the possibility of cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains.

Best Type of Oats for Skin Use

When selecting oats for topical use, steel-cut oats are preferable as they are the least processed and retain the maximum concentration of active compounds. Most commercial brands offer rolled or instant oats, which are steamed and processed to reduce cooking time but may be less potent. For skincare, grind steel-cut oats into a fine powder to make colloidal oatmeal, and store it in an airtight container for future use.

Conclusion

Oats offer a wide spectrum of dermatological benefits, particularly for dry, itchy, and inflamed skin conditions. Their proven efficacy in reducing inflammation, restoring barrier function, and soothing irritation makes them a valuable natural ingredient. For optimal results, pair oats with allergen-free, hydrating skincare products tailored to your unique skin needs.

To conclude, oats are worth trying for dry and sensitive skin. We also recommend using hydrating products without allergens in such cases. Try our regime finder tool to find the products that suit your skin and bring positive change.

 References:

1. Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice
2. Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin
3. Oatmeal in dermatology: a brief review
4. Effects of Colloidal Oatmeal Topical Atopic Dermatitis Cream on Skin Microbiome and Skin Barrier Properties