Active ingredient
Colloidal Oatmeal
INCIAvena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour
Last reviewed by BIOSAR Scientific Team, PharmD, Cosmetic Chemistry, Pharmacy practice on .
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. Pairs broadly with most actives. No major conflicts.
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.
What Colloidal Oatmeal does
Finely-ground oat. Soothes the appearance of irritation and supports the skin barrier. Common in dry and sensitive formulas.
What the research says
- −54%1% oat cream in mild-to-moderate eczema, 14 daysA randomised trial in 61 patients with mild-to-moderate eczema: a 1% colloidal oat cream lowered two severity scores by 51% and 54% in 14 days and improved skin pH and barrier function. No scores are given for the comparison moisturiser.A clinical study in patients, in a medical setting. It is shown for the science of the ingredient, not as an example of cosmetic use.Read the study →J Drugs Dermatol 2020
Where it helps
Concerns Colloidal Oatmeal addresses
Dryness
Dryness is a barrier dysfunction in which skin loses water faster than it can retain or replenish it, presenting as flaking, tightness,…
Explore the concernSensitivity
If you have sensitive skin, you have probably been told it is in your head — by a product that says "gentle" on the label, by a friend…
Explore the concernSun Damage
Sun damage is the cumulative photoaging caused by ultraviolet radiation, presenting as solar lentigines, irregular pigmentation, fine…
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