Colloidal Oatmeal
Finely milled whole oats that comfort, soften and moisturise dry, sensitive or easily irritated skin.
colloidal oatmeal, Avena sativa (oat) kernel flour, oat, oat kernel extract, oat beta-glucan, avenanthramides
Sensitive skin · Dry & dehydrated skin · Redness · Barrier support
What it does
Colloidal oatmeal is whole oat grain milled to a very fine powder that disperses evenly in water. It is one of the most trusted comforting ingredients for dry, sensitive and easily irritated skin: it softens, helps calm the look of redness and the feeling of tightness, and leaves a light protective film that helps the skin hold on to moisture. It is equally at home in moisturisers, cleansers, masks and bath soaks.
How it works
Oats bring several useful components together. Their starches and beta-glucans hold water and form a soft, protective film; their natural lipids help replenish the skin barrier; and polyphenols called avenanthramides have a soothing, antioxidant effect. Together they help the skin stay comfortable and hydrated. On labels, colloidal oatmeal appears as Avena sativa (oat) kernel flour; oat kernel extract, oat oil and oat amino acids are related ingredients, usually used in smaller amounts.
MG says
For sensitive or reactive skin, look for colloidal oatmeal alongside other soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, centella and bisabolol, in fragrance-free, minimalist formulas. Introduce one new product at a time, patch test, and put the barrier first.
Cautions
Colloidal oatmeal is very well tolerated, but oats can occasionally cause allergic reactions: avoid it if you have a known oat allergy, and patch test if your skin is very reactive. Stop using any product that causes itching or a rash.
Regional notes
United States: Colloidal oatmeal is a skin-protectant active under the FDA’s over-the-counter drug monograph, so products that claim to relieve itching or eczema are regulated as OTC drugs.
