When skin problems strike, some people reach for expensive cosmetic remedies for relief. If you are suffering from skin conditions that are leaving you restless, seek solace in a product that you may already have in your kitchen. Inexpensive and effective, oatmeal -- even if you only have instant -- can help.
What is Instant Oatmeal?
Also known as quick oats, instant oatmeal is just as nutritious as traditional rolled oats. According to New Mexico State University, the difference between the two is preparation. Both traditional and instant whole grain oats undergo a mechanical process that removes the outer hull after harvesting. An additional process cuts, steams and flattens the instant oats, allowing them to cook in less time than ordinary oats. Some varieties of instant oatmeal contain added flavors and sweeteners -- usually in moderate amounts.
Soothing Skin Relief
Skin rashes, dermatitis, bug bites and eczema can cause uncomfortable itching and even redness. Oatmeal, instant or traditional is soothing in a lukewarm bath. If you suffer from dry itchy skin, Family and Community Medicine at the University of Cincinnati explains that 1 cup of oatmeal placed in a cloth bag and added to your bath water, will soften your skin and minimize itching. If you choose to use instant oatmeal in the bath, choose a variety that is unflavored and unsweetened.
Dead Skin Exfoliation
The gritty texture of oatmeal makes it an excellent exfoliating agent, which removes dead skin cells when rubbed over the skin. According to Bowie State University, instant oatmeal, prepared and cooled, helps to slough off dead skin cells. When it comes to your face, the best way to apply the cooled oatmeal is as a facial pack or mask, left on for approximately 10 minutes and then rinsed away. You can also use cooled instant oatmeal to exfoliate in the shower, rubbing the cooled oatmeal over your wet skin with your hands.
Skin Cleanser
If you have sensitive skin, soaps and body washes may be too harsh. Unsweetened, unflavored instant oatmeal provides a fragrance-free and soap-free skin cleansing option. The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection explains that oatmeal wrapped in a cloth and used as a washcloth cleans and softens without soap. Adding a scoop of powdered milk or a few drops of olive oil to the oatmeal in the cloth will provide added moisture to your skin as you cleanse.
References
- New Mexico State University: Did You Know?
- Family and Community Medicine at the University of Cincinnati; Wisdom Of The Ageds: Clinical Pearls; Rick E. Ricer, M.D.; 2003
- Bowie State University; Health Matters; Kennika Freeman
- The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (CT DEP): Household Alternatives -- In The Bathroom
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