What Is Colloidal Oatmeal, What Does It Do? Itching and Dry Skin

Colloidal oatmeal has a very old history in skin care, but the form discussed in cosmetics is not kitchen oats. It is a powder obtained by finely grinding whole oat grains. In the US it is listed as a non-prescription skin protectant active, for which at least 0,007% is required. It leaves a slippery layer on the skin and is one of the few herbal ingredients with controlled studies on dryness and itching.

What is the difference from kitchen oats?

The difference is the degree of grinding and processing. The powder is refined so that it can disperse in water and cream. Oats ground at home in a mill do not give the same dispersion. The active components in the cosmetic product are:

In cell culture, oat oil increased ceramide levels in keratinocytes by 70%. This is an interesting clue about the skin's own ceramide production, but there is no basis for expecting the same percentage on the skin. Most of the effect comes from the surface film and softening.

How strong is the evidence on itching and dry skin?

One manufacturer's data also reported that the moisture increase on dry skin lasted up to 2 weeks after the product was stopped. So the effect may not end the moment you stop using it, but this must be confirmed with independent studies.

The table is positive overall, but two things should be remembered. First: in 1% cream studies, a significant part was conducted and funded by researchers of a company that makes such products. Second: the results are valid for a ready cream, not for oatmeal porridge or a mixture made at home. If you have eczema, colloidal oatmeal may enter a moisturising step, but the decision on anti-inflammatory treatment belongs to your physician. The eczema-prone skin care article has the daily routine.

Bath or cream?

Most studies were done with cream, so the form with the most evidence is the cream. Behind powders added to the bath there is more traditional use.

• Cream: Apply to clean skin, preferably after a shower while slightly damp.
• Bath powder: Follow the package instructions, keep the water lukewarm, and do not rub when drying. The bath may become slippery; be careful when using it with a child.
• Label: The word "oatmeal" alone is not enough; look for Avena Sativa Kernel Flour or colloidal oatmeal. Avena Sativa Kernel Extract or Oil are other ingredients.

Who is most at risk from oat allergy?

The most striking data comes from children with eczema. In a study following about 300 children with eczema, the oat patch test was positive in 14,6% and the skin test in 19,2%. Among those using an oat cream, the patch test was positive in 32%, and among those not using it there were none. Among children found sensitised, the food challenge was positive in 15,6% and the use test in 28%. This was more common in children under 2 years of age.

There is also opposing data: in a repeated patch study of 2.291 people, a single suspicious reaction was seen, but this too is data from the manufacturer's side. Read the two together, and this emerges:

• If your baby or young child has eczema, start with an oat product only after consulting your doctor, as the risk of sensitisation with a compromised barrier is discussed.
• If you react to eating oats, ask before use.
• On adult and healthy skin, trying the new product on the inner arm or elbow crease for 7-10 days, twice a day, is a sufficient start.
• If itching disturbs sleep, the skin oozes, or it looks infected, do not wait with the cream; see a doctor.