Simply put: Finely-ground oat kernel flour

The beneficial properties of oats, scientifically known as Avena sativa, have been recognized for centuries as both a nutritious food and a soothing skincare product. Colloidal oat powder, or oat kernel flour, is produced via a process of grinding whole-grain oats into a very fine powder. This process allows the chemical compounds found in oat extract to be evenly absorbed and dispersed, effectively unlocking its healing properties. The result is an ingredient rich with lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals— all of which can be effectively used by and positively benefit the skin. The complex biological structure of colloidal oats works to increase the emollient activity of this powerful ingredient, meaning it helps water bind to the surface of the skin, effectively targeting conditions such as dryness and itch. Colloidal oats contain both polysaccharides and hydrocolloids, both of which act as protective barriers that help protect skin from external irritants.  

One Ingredient, Many Benefits

Colloidal oat powder can be used in various forms such as lotions, creams, serums, shampoos, and capsules. While many ingredients in skincare products serve only one purpose, colloidal oat powder works as a moisturizer and a cleanser, as well as to soothe irritated skin. Studies have also proven colloidal oats to be both anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal. In a blind study conducted by Johnson & Johnson, research participants who had both dry skin and itch were given colloidal oat extract which had been dissolved in a solvent. The participants experienced clinically significant improvement of both conditions, due to a reduction of pro-inflammatory agents. The study concluded that colloidal oats exhibit direct anti-inflammatory dermatological benefits.

Due to the many ways in which colloidal oat powder is able to treat the skin, it has been clinically proven to help anyone suffering from skin that is dry, flaky, itchy, or rough, as well as those individuals with dermatological conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.

Natural. Safe. Dermatologist-Approved.

The use of colloidal oats as a skincare remedy has been traced back to the ancient Romans, who were boiling oats for medicinal baths. Though skincare has come a long way since the Romans, colloidal oats are a time-tested remedy for a variety of skin-related issues.

In fact, ready-to-use colloidal oat skincare products first appeared on the U.S. market in 1945. Dermatological studies showed that colloidal oat powder has very low potential for causing skin irritation, making it a safe ingredient for most people to use every day. In 2003, the use of colloidal oat powder as a skin protectant was approved by the United States’ Food and Drug Administration, also known as the FDA, signifying the fact that both science and history recognize the skin benefits of this powerful, natural treatment.