Colloidal Oatmeal in Skincare

The History of Colloidal Oatmeal:

2000 BC - Oats in skincare has been recorded back to around 2000 BC in Egypt and the Arabian Peninsula. For centuries, oats have been used to treat skin conditions including eczema, burns and other inflammatory skin issues as well as help treat insomnia and anxiety in products such as baths, food, and tea.

16th to 18th Century - Oats became well known more for food than for a medicinal addition to skincare. It was eaten in Scotland as a form of a cheap staple that was quite tasteless and boring, however, fortunately, oatmeal gradually made it's way back to becoming part of cosmetics and skincare again due to its medicinal properties.

The 1930s - Many writings including benefits and uses of colloidal oatmeal in facial masks and oatmeal baths were published. These articles had lots of information on how oatmeal can relieve itching and can also act as a skin protectant. The humble oatmeal then started to grow in popularity by 1945 and was produced again on a more commercial scale to supply the growing demand.

The 1990s - Scientists were able to identify what it was about oatmeal that made it such a great skin protector. Colloidal oatmeal contains:
 

• Avenanthramides are a group of antioxidants that serve as a skin protectant and also helps relieve itching, inflammation, and redness.
• Oat beta-glucan serves as a hydrating agent and is capable of reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving overall skin elasticity and promotes tissue healing.

2003 - Colloidal oatmeal was approved by the FDA to be used as a skin protectant and is one of the few botanical ingredients considered effective as a skin protectant. Today, there is a large variety of skincare that includes this wonderful medicinal ingredient such as

• Lotions
• Creams
• Shaving gels
• Burn treatments

What are some oatmeal products you've tried? How has it helped you? Let us know!