Active ingredient

Colloidal Oatmeal

INCIAvena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour

2%Typical concentration

Last reviewed by BIOSAR Scientific Team, PharmD, Cosmetic Chemistry, Pharmacy practice on April 28, 2026.

What it is

Colloidal oatmeal is a finely milled Avena sativa preparation listed by the FDA as an OTC skin protectant for itch and irritation. Its avenanthramides reduce inflammatory cytokine signalling, while beta-glucan supports the moisture barrier. Effective at 1% to 5% in barrier creams, infant care, and atopic-skin formulations. Pairs broadly with most actives. No major conflicts.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Safe

Considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Topical colloidal oatmeal is considered safe during pregnancy and lactation per Mother to Baby. FDA recognises colloidal oatmeal as a Category I OTC skin protectant; its safety profile is well established for general and infant care.

Mechanism in detail

What Colloidal Oatmeal does

Finely-ground oat. Soothes the appearance of irritation and supports the skin barrier. Common in dry and sensitive formulas.

Evidence

What the research says

−54%Calms itch-prone skin fastIn a clinical study, a 1% colloidal oat cream cut mean Atopic Dermatitis Severity Index scores by 54% in just 14 days, alongside a 51% drop in Eczema Area and Severity Index. Visibly calmer, more comfortable skin, quickly.Read the study →J Drugs Dermatol 2020

From the BIOSAR catalog

Colloidal Oatmeal

Considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What Colloidal Oatmeal does

What the research says

Products formulated with Colloidal Oatmeal

Sunscreen for Dry and Sensitive Skin