Colloidal Oatmeal

Best

Plant extracts

Colloidal Oatmeal at a glance

  • Form of oatmeal used in cosmetics
  • Can help soothe skin
  • United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes colloidal oatmeal as a skin protectant

Colloidal Oatmeal description

Colloidal oatmeal is a form of oatmeal used in cosmetics and skin care products. It is produced by finely grinding oats, then boiling them. Research shows avenathramides, potent types of antioxidants found in oats (and colloidal oatmeal), can help soothe skin. A high concentration of beta-glucan and starches in colloidal oatmeal also mean it has water-binding properties and is an effective skin protectant. In fact, the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) categorises colloidal oatmeal as a skin protectant, allowing it to be listed as an active ingredient on skin care products.

Colloidal Oatmeal references

  • Food and Drug Administration. CFR - Code of Federal Regulations Title 21. [Internet] [Cited April 2016] Available from: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/cfrsearch.cfm?fr=347.50
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, September 2010, issue 9, pages 1116-1120
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, February 2007, issue 2, pages 167-170

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.