When it comes to skincare, one unassuming pantry staple is stealing the spotlight: oats. Yes, the same ingredient that powers your morning porridge is now a powerhouse in the world of beauty. Oats are more than just comfort food; they’re packed with skin-loving properties that can soothe, hydrate, and protect your skin naturally.
Dr. Ali Akbar, the head of the department of dermatology at Canadian Hospital Dubai and advisor to Aveeno, stepped into The Beautiful Lifestyle Online to share the deets on the hidden benefits of oats for your skin.
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The Science Behind Oats’ Skin Superpowers
The secret to oats’ skincare magic lies in compounds called avenanthramides. These natural antioxidants are exclusive to oats and boast impressive anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, studies show that avenanthramides can reduce skin inflammation by up to 40%, making oats a hero for anyone with sensitive or irritated skin.
From cleansers to moisturisers, oat-based products are taking over bathroom shelves everywhere.
Five Ways to Give Your Skin the Oat-powered Glow-up it Deserves
1. Soothe Sensitive Skin with Oat-Infused Body Washes
If you struggle with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, oatmeal-based body washes could be your new best friend. Colloidal oatmeal – a finely ground form of oats – helps calm redness, itching, and irritation.
Insider Tip: Look for body washes with colloidal oatmeal as a main ingredient. The natural soothing properties work wonders for daily relief.
2. Lock in Moisture with Oat-Enriched Moisturisers
Oats act like a moisture magnet, helping your skin retain hydration by forming a protective barrier. One clinical study found that oat extract-based moisturisers improved skin hydration by 20% and reduced dryness by 35% within just 24 hours.
Insider Tip: Apply your oat-based moisturiser to slightly damp skin to maximise hydration and keep your complexion looking fresh and dewy.
3. Exfoliate Gently with an Oat Scrub
Forget harsh scrubs that leave your skin feeling raw. Oats offer a gentle exfoliating experience, sloughing away dead skin cells without causing irritation. The fine particles work like a soft polish, revealing a smoother, brighter complexion.
Insider Tip: Use an oat scrub 1-2 times a week to maintain a healthy, glowing appearance without stripping your skin.
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4. Tame Oily Skin with Oat-Based Cleansers
Surprise! Oats aren’t just for dry or sensitive skin. Their natural cleansing properties help absorb excess oil and unclog pores, making them an excellent choice for oily or combination skin types.
Insider Tip: Look for cleansers containing oat extract if you’re dealing with excess shine. They help balance oil production while maintaining your skin’s natural moisture levels.
5. Repair and Protect with Oat Barrier Creams
Your skin’s barrier is its first line of defence against environmental stressors – and oats can help keep it strong. Oat lipids and proteins support barrier repair and protect against moisture loss. Research even suggests that oat lipids can start repairing the skin barrier within just three hours.
Insider Tip: Apply an oat-enriched barrier cream to dry or irritated areas before bed for intensive overnight repair.
Oats Are More Than Just Breakfast
Who knew that such a simple, wholesome ingredient could offer such incredible skincare benefits? As dermatologists continue to uncover the science behind oats, these grain-based wonders are becoming a staple in beauty routines worldwide.
So next time you’re browsing the skincare aisle, don’t overlook the power of oats. It might just be the secret ingredient your skin has been craving all along.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised skincare recommendations.
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