Colloidal oatmeal, or Avena sativa L., is a common ingredient in skin and bath products due to its exfoliating, soothing and moisturizing properties. If you do not want to purchase pre-made soap, you can make your own by melting an unscented bar of soap, mixing in the desired amount of oatmeal and then allowing it to cool. Oatmeal soap is appropriate for all skin types and is gentle enough to use as often as needed.
Natural Exfoliant
Finely ground oatmeal is a natural exfoliant that is gentle enough to use every day. By exfoliating dead skin cells, the soap will unclog your pores and improve the texture and appearance of your skin. Removing accumulated dead skin also enables moisturizers to penetrate to deeper layers of the skin, where they are more effective at combating dry skin and preventing premature aging. Reduce the frequency of exfoliation if you experience redness or irritation after using oatmeal soap.
Soothes Itching and Irritation
Oatmeal soothes skin irritation and itchy rashes, such as those that occur with contact dermatitis, eczema and poison ivy. It also helps relieve sunburn pain when used in the bath or applied directly to burned skin. Quick Care's Self-Care Advisory website states that colloidal oatmeal controls itching by restoring moisture to the stratum corneum layer of the skin, and recommends using oatmeal soap instead of traditional bar soap for eczema. The Nemours Foundation suggests adding oatmeal to bathwater to relieve itching associated with chicken pox.
Absorbs Oil
Oatmeal soap is beneficial for anyone with oily or acne-prone skin, as the oatmeal absorbs oil without over-drying. Health911.com explains that oatmeal has astringent properties and helps draw oil out of the skin. Using oatmeal soap can restore the skin's natural pH and will not interfere with the effectiveness of other skin care products or acne treatments.
Member Comments