Oat in skincare

Oat is a skincare ingredient used in various forms for calming irritated skin, reducing redness and maintaining hydration.

It supports skin barrier repair, contains antioxidant compounds and is particularly effective for managing dryness and other issues such as skin reactivity and sensitivity (1).

What is Avena sativa kernel (oat) extract?

Oat extract is often listed as Avena sativa kernel extract, or sometimes as colloidal oatmeal.

It is used in creams, cleansers, lotions and bath products designed for skin that is dry, itchy or prone to inflammation. The extract allows skin to benefit from oats in a stable, bioavailable format without added weight or occlusion (2).

In what forms are oat and oat extract used in skincare?

Colloidal oatmeal is a composition of ground whole oats that soothe and protect, great for dry, itchy or eczema-prone skin (3).

Alternatively, oat extract comes from the plant’s leaves and stems and offers lighter antioxidant and barrier support, better for general dryness or mild sensitivity.

Benefits of oat extract in skincare

Oat extract is known for its skin-soothing qualities and has been shown to reduce the visible effects of irritation and environmental stress. It contains antioxidant compounds that protect the skin from free radical damage, along with beta-glucans and phenols that help maintain barrier function and hydration.

Its anti-inflammatory action is supported by studies that show its ability to inhibit cytokines, the small proteins that mediate the body’s inflammatory response (2,4).

Therefore, by calming this reaction at a molecular level, it’s thought that oat extract helps reduce redness and discomfort while improving skin barrier strength.

Key benefits include (5):

Reducing irritation, redness and itching

Helping the skin retain hydration

Strengthening barrier function

Protecting against oxidative and environmental stress

Supporting skin smoothness and elasticity

Safety and precautions

Oat extract is well tolerated across most skin types and is widely used in dermatologically tested products.

Please note: Those with a known allergy to oats should carry out a patch test before use.

Recommended usage

Oat extract is found in a wide range of topical skincare products including face creams, cleansers, body lotions and bath soaks.

When listed as colloidal oatmeal, it may be used to help manage widespread dryness or itching, for example, in cases of eczema.

Takeaways

Overall, oat extract helps calm irritation and keep skin feeling hydrated.

It’s packed with antioxidants and barrier-boosting compounds, making it a great option for anyone with dryness or skin sensitivity.