According to WholeHealthMD, ground-grain oatmeal contains large amounts of silica, which benefits problem skin when used externally. Many sufferers of eczema use oatmeal to soothe the itching, dryness and irritation caused by the condition. People with acne-prone skin also might benefit from using oatmeal in a skin cream, as it helps draw out impurities that clog pores. In her book "Natural Beauty From the Garden," Janice Cox recommends oatmeal for sensitive skin, as it is non-toxic and never irritating.
Step 1
Place the rolled oats in a food processor or blender and process on high until you achieve a fine, powder-like consistency. Transfer the ground oats to a mixing bowl.
Step 2
Add the plain yogurt and honey to the ground oats and stir well to combine. If the cream seems too thin, add one teaspoon of oatmeal at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. If the cream seems too thick, add 1 to 2 tsp. plain water.
Step 3
Spoon the oatmeal skin cream into a plastic storage container with a tight-fitting lid, and store in the refrigerator for up to three days before discarding any unused portion.
Step 4
Apply the cream liberally to the affected skin, avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes. Massage into the skin using upward, circular motions. Allow the mixture to remain for at least 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Step 5
Follow the treatment with your favorite toner or astringent, or simply splash your skin with cold water to close your pores. Apply a gentle moisturizer to keep skin soft and supple after each treatment, especially if you have dry skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Instead of grinding your own oats, you can purchase colloidal oatmeal, or oats ground into a fine powder, at your local drugstore or health food store. Oat flour also will suffice if necessary.
- Do not use quick-cooking or instant oats. Rolled, steel-cut or old-fashioned oats provide the best results.
Things You'll Need
- 1/2 cup rolled, steel-cut or old-fashioned oats
- Food processor or blender
- Mixing bowl
- 1/4 cup plain whole yogurt
- 2 tbsp. pure honey
- Plastic container with lid
- Toner or astringent
- Natural moisturizer
References
- WholeHealthMD Reference Library: Oat Straw
- "Natural Beauty From the Garden: More Than 200 Do-It-Yourself Beauty Recipes and Garden Ideas"; Janice Cox; 1999
- "How to Treat Your Skin Naturally"; Jeanne Paiva; 2005
- "Fit and Fabulous After 40: A 5-Part Program for Turning Back the Clock"; Denise Austin; 2002
Member Comments