A warm bowl of good old oatmeal is the best way to kick-start your day. It contains amino acids, vitamin B, copper, thiamine, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and other vital nutrients.

Other than being beneficial for dealing with health issues such as excessive weight, high blood sugar, low energy levels, coronary heart disease, and high cholesterol, oatmeal is also great for your skin.

With its high nutrient content and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it can be used for the treatment of several skin conditions.



Oatmeal helps in keeping the skin clean and clear because it contains saponins, which helps remove dirt and oil. It also plays a role in maintaining the normal pH level of the skin. It heals and soothes inflamed, itchy, and dry skin and keeps it hydrated and moisturized.

Regular use of an oatmeal mask can help keep away acne and pimples, soothe sunburn, and keep your skin soft and beautiful.

Are you in the mood to pamper your skin but don't have the time to visit a spa? Or perhaps you are not too sure about using commercial face masks. If yes, then these oatmeal face masks are just what you are looking for.

How to Make Oatmeal Face Masks

Here are 10 face mask recipes with oatmeal that you can use for healthy and beautiful skin.

Method 1: Oatmeal-Milk Face Mask

You must be aware of the various health benefits milk offers, but did you know it is also great for your skin? It contains lactic acid, which helps in exfoliating the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.

Other than being an effective skin cleanser, milk also helps in improving complexion, minimizing the appearance of pores, soothing skin irritation, treating sunburns, and more. It is a great moisturizer and helps keep the skin smooth and hydrated.

This mask consists of the softening and soothing properties of oatmeal and the goodness of milk. It will make your skin radiant and youthful!

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal - 2 tablespoon
Milk - 2 tablespoons
Cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon

Step1. Combine the ingredients



Put the ground oatmeal, milk, and cinnamon powder together in a bowl.
Stir and mix the ingredients to form a paste.

Step 2. Apply the oatmeal and milk mask on your face



Cleanse your face and neck thoroughly to remove makeup, dirt, oil, etc.
Apply the mixture on your face and neck and let it sit for 20 minutes.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water after 20 minutes.
Use a soft towel to pat your skin dry.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.

Method 2: Oatmeal-Oil Face Mask

Jojoba oil resembles the oil produced by the skin and is a great help in reducing acne. It protects the skin and keeps it hydrated and moisturized.

Oatmeal possesses anti-inflammatory properties and helps in cleansing the skin pores.

Oatmeal and jojoba oil face mask is highly effective in treating skin conditions such as rashes and allergies. It will restore your skin's balance and promote healing. If you have acne-prone skin, this DIY face mask is just what you need.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal - 2 tablespoons
Organic jojoba oil - 2 teaspoons
Warm water - enough to achieve the desired consistency

Step1. Combine the ingredients


Put ground oatmeal and jojoba oil into a bowl.
Add enough water to reach the desired mask like consistency.

Step 2. Mix the ingredients and apply the mixture on your face



Mix the ingredients well to form a paste.
Cleanse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water.
With the help of an applicator brush, apply the oatmeal mask all over your face and let it sit for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, gently massage your face in circular motions for a few minutes.
Use lukewarm water to rinse off the mask. Splash your face with some cold water in order to close the open pores.
Pat your face dry.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
Use this oatmeal-jojoba oil face mask once a day until you get your desired results.

Method 3: Oatmeal and Apple Cider Vinegar Face Mask

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful natural ingredient which offers a number of health and beauty benefits. Due to the presence of malic acids along with vitamins, mineral salts, amino acids, enzymes, etc., apple cider vinegar will help you deal with various skin - and health-related issues.

It is a very potent astringent and is often used in beauty and skin care remedies. You can use it as a skin toner to help fight pimples and acne, to soothe sunburn, to treat razor bumps, and more.

Ground oatmeal with the malic acid will help exfoliate the skin and absorb excess oil. Together, oatmeal and apple cider vinegar will give you beautiful, glowing skin.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal - 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon
Apple juice - as required

Step 1. Combine the ingredients



Put the ground oatmeal and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
Add enough apple juice to make a paste.

Step 2. Mix the ingredients and apply the mixture on your face



Mix the ingredients to form a smooth paste.
Apply the mixture on your face and let it dry.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Pat your skin dry.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
You may use this remedy three to four times a week.

Method 4: Oatmeal-Turmeric Face Mask

Turmeric is a common herb that is being used for its medicinal and beauty benefits since ages. It is rich in healthy nutrients and offers antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Turmeric can help keep your skin youthful by delaying the signs of aging. It is great for oily skin.

Jojoba oil has strong moisturizing properties that will make your skin smooth and supple. Both of these ingredients are great for treating acne.

This turmeric-oatmeal mask is great for treating acne, reducing breakouts.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal 2 tablespoons
Turmeric powder 1 teaspoon
Jojoba oil as required

Step 1. Put the ingredients together in a mixing bowl



Put the ground oatmeal, turmeric powder, and jojoba oil together in a mixing bowl.

Step 2. Mix the ingredients well and apply the mixture on your skin



Mix the ingredients to form a paste.
Apply the oatmeal-turmeric mask all over your face and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes.
Rinse off the mask with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
Use this remedy three times a week for best results.

Method 5: Oatmeal-Yogurt Face Mask

The probiotic enzymes in yogurt help replenish the skin, tighten the pores, and reduce acne. Yogurt can also be used to fight the signs of premature aging, conditioning dull and dry skin.

This face mask is a very effective skin cleansing remedy and is especially suitable for oily or combination skin. It is recommended that you use probiotic yogurt for this yogurt-oatmeal face mask.

Things you'll need:


Oats - 2 tablespoons
Plain yogurt - enough to achieve the desired consistency

Single-Step Method: Combine the ingredients and apply



Add yogurt to 2 tablespoons to oats.
Cleanse your face thoroughly.
Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 15 minutes.
Rinse the mask off with warm water.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
Method 6: Oatmeal-Lemon Face Mask

Honey offers antiseptic, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is a natural humectant and helps in keeping the skin toned and moisturized.

Lemon is rich in calcium, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, etc., and has antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and astringent properties. It can help rejuvenate the skin and heal skin problems such as acne. Lemon contains citric acid, a natural alpha hydroxy acid that is also useful for lighting pigmentation issues and scars and improving the skin tone. This lemon-oatmeal face mask is especially useful for the treatment of skin blemishes and pigmentation issues.

Note: Please perform a patch test before using this face mask as the ingredients used here might not be suitable for all skin types.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal - 3 tablespoons
Distilled water - as required
Honey - 1 teaspoon
Fresh lemon juice - 1 teaspoon
White vinegar - 1 teaspoon

Step1. Combine the ingredients



Put the ground oatmeal, honey, lemon juice, and white vinegar together in a mixing bowl.

Step 2. Add water and mix well



Add water to the ingredients.
Mix well to form a paste.
Cleanse your face to remove makeup, dirt, and other impurities.
Apply the mixture on your face and keep it for 10 minutes.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.

Method 7: Olive Oil-Egg White-Oatmeal Face Mask

This oatmeal - egg white mask works pretty well for the treatment of rashes and allergies as well as for tightening the skin.

Egg white is rich in proteins, minerals, and vitamins that will rejuvenate and replenish your skin. It helps in tightening the pores and reduces skin sags.

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, has strong moisturizing properties, and is great for keeping the skin hydrated and smooth.

Together, oatmeal and egg white are very effective in treating skin inflammation and irritation.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal - 1 tablespoon
Egg whites - 1 egg
Olive oil - 1 tablespoon.

Step 1. Whisk the egg white



With the help of a blender, whisk the egg until it forms a froth.

Step 2. Add the other ingredients to the egg white



Add the oatmeal and olive oil to the egg white.
Use a hand blender to mix the ingredients properly.

Step 3. Apply the face mask



Apply the mixture on your face using an applicator brush.
Wait for 15 minutes before rinsing it off with water.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
Use this remedy once a day until you get your desired results.

Method 8: Oatmeal-Baking Soda Face Mask

Baking soda has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. It is commonly used in home remedies for the body, skin, and hair. This wonderful ingredient will help you fight pimples and acne, offer relief from sunburns and blisters, improve your skin tone, and more.

It works as an exfoliant and helps rid your skin of dead skin cells, impurities, and acne-causing bacteria. It is also a great absorbent. It softens the sebum in the pores to allow the blackheads to be cleaned and removed.

Note: Apply this mask to a smaller patch to check how your skin responds to the ingredients used.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal - 2 tablespoons
Baking soda - 1 teaspoon
Distilled water - as required

Step 1. Combine the ingredients



Combine the ground oatmeal and baking soda.
Add enough water to make a smooth mixture.

Step 2. Mix the ingredients and apply the mixture on your face



Mix the ingredients properly to form a paste.
Apply the mask over your face and leave it on for about 20 minutes. (Use warm towels over the mask better results.)
Rinse it off and pat your skin dry.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
Use the mask about three times a week to prevent acne breakouts.

Method 9: Oatmeal-Green Tea Face Mask

Green tea offers several skin benefits owing to the presence of antioxidants, vitamin B, magnesium, potassium, amino acids, polyphenols, and phytochemicals in it. It is commonly used in face masks and helps in improving the skin tone, treating dark circles, reducing puffy eyes, fighting signs of aging, and tackling skin issues such as pimples and acne.

Honey keeps the skin moisturized, toned, and healthy. Tea tree oil boasts antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in rejuvenating the skin and protecting it from damage. This remedy is great in treating blemishes and dark spots.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal - 3 tablespoons
Strong green tea - 2 tablespoons
Raw honey - 1 teaspoon
Tea tree essential oil - 2 to 3 drops

Step 1. Mix the ingredients well to form a paste



Mix the ground oatmeal, green tea, and honey together to form a smooth paste.
Add 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil.

Step 2. Apply the mixture on your face

Apply the mask to freshly cleaned skin and leave it on for about 20 minutes.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
For best results, use this remedy two times a week.

Method 10: Oatmeal-Banana Face Mask

Packed with essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin E, and vitamin C, banana is quite useful for skincare.

Milk helps in soothing, cleansing, and nourishing the skin. It is also beneficial for tightening the skin and improving the complexion.

This banana-oatmeal mask will help you heal dry and flaky skin and keep it moisturized.

Things you'll need:


Apply the mask to freshly cleaned skin and leave it on for about 20 minutes.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.
For best results, use this remedy two times a week.

Method 10: Oatmeal-Banana Face Mask

Packed with essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin E, and vitamin C, banana is quite useful for skincare.

Milk helps in soothing, cleansing, and nourishing the skin. It is also beneficial for tightening the skin and improving the complexion.

This banana-oatmeal mask will help you heal dry and flaky skin and keep it moisturized.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal 1 tablespoon
Ripe banana ½
Milk 1 teaspoon

Step 1. Mix the ingredients to form a paste



Place the banana pieces in a bowl and mash them using a fork.
Add the ground oats and milk.
Mix the ingredients to form a paste.
Clean your face thoroughly.
Use an applicator brush to apply the mixture on your face.
Rinse off the mask after 15 minutes.
Apply a noncomedogenic moisturizer.

Tips to make face masks with oatmeal

Apply a light moisturizer after cleansing off the face mask to keep your skin conditioned and smooth. Oatmeal has no noticeable side effects on the skin. However, it is best to carry out a patch test before applying the masks.

Applying these masks may get a little messy. Pull back your hair properly and cover yourself with a towel or cloth before applying the face mask.

Did you know almost 75 percent of households in the United States have oatmeal in their pantry?

Oatmeal truly deserves this place, as it is one of the healthiest meals that you can enjoy without guilt. This grainy delight is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that will give you your morning kick and keep you energized throughout the day.

The antioxidants, called avenanthramides, found in oats also help your body fight free radicals and can help you deal with numerous skin maladies. Oats also contain saponins that work as natural skin cleansers. It is for these very reasons that oatmeal extracts form an important component of a number of skin care products. If you've been suffering from a skin condition and have tried every remedy possible, it is time to put oats to the test.

Natural Treatments for Skin Allergies and Other Conditions

Continue reading to discover the different ways in which you can use oatmeal for skin conditions. Many remedies use colloidal oatmeal, which is finely ground oats.

Method 1: Itchy & Dry skin

Oatmeal is most widely used as an effective treatment for dry or itchy skin. The antioxidants found in oatmeal helps reduce inflammation and thus curb the itchy sensation. Plus, it forms a protective layer over the skin to retain moisture and reduce the dryness.

A 2015 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology confirmed that colloidal oatmeal extract helped alleviate dryness and itching in the skin.

Single-Step Treatment: Make a paste of colloidal oatmeal and water and apply


Apply colloidal oatmeal paste to soothe and nourish dry and itchy skin

Put 1 tablespoon of colloidal oatmeal in a bowl.
Add just enough water to make a thick paste.
Mix them well.
Let it sit for 2 minutes to allow the oats to fully soak up the water.
Apply a thick layer of the paste on the irritated skin.
Let it sit for 20 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water.
Pat your skin dry with a clean towel.

This oatmeal remedy will give instant results. Reapply the paste 2 or 3 times daily for 4 to 5 days or until you get complete relief.

Alternatively, you can mix 2 cups of oatmeal in a bathtub filled with cool water. Soak your body in it for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with water and pat your skin dry. Do this once a day.

Method 2: Eczema & Poison Ivy

Intense itching due to allergic conditions like eczema or an accidental brush up against poison ivy can be dealt with using oatmeal. Its anti-inflammatory properties help cool down the skin and reduce pain and irritation.

A 2017 clinical study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology states that 1% colloidal oatmeal cream was effective in improving the skin condition of patients suffering from mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.

To use oatmeal for a poison ivy rash or eczema, prepare an oatmeal bath and soak the affected area in it.

 
Things you'll need:


Oatmeal (anti-inflammatory) 1 cup
Cheesecloth

Single-Step Treatment: Drop a bundle of oatmeal in water & soak your skin in it 3 times daily



Bundle up 1 cup of oatmeal in cheesecloth and secure the open end with a knot.
If you're treating a small patch of skin, dip the bundle in a bowl of water. If you're treating a larger area, you can dunk it in your bathwater.
Let the oatmeal soak in the water for 15 minutes until the water turns cloudy.
Soak the affected skin in the bath for 10 minutes. Squish the bundle frequently to release more enzymes into the water.
Rinse your skin with cool water. Pat dry and apply a moisturizer.
Repeat 3 times daily until you get complete relief.

Method 3: Diaper Rash

If you have a newborn at home, it is quite common to encounter diaper rash on your baby. It is most often the result of a soiled diaper staying on your baby for too long, leading to redness, swelling, and pain around the genital area.

The saponins in oatmeal can help safely cleanse the area and form a protective barrier on the skin. Also, the antioxidants present in oatmeal help reduce the redness and swelling.

Single-Step Treatment: Soak your baby's bottom in an oatmeal bath twice daily


Dip your baby's bottom in an oatmeal bath and let it soak for 10 minutes to treat a diaper rash

Add 1 tablespoon of oatmeal to your baby's bathwater and mix it well.
Allow time for the sudsy component of the oats to release into the water.
Carefully, hold your baby while they enjoy the soothing bath soak for about 10 minutes.
Pat dry the skin completely.
Let it air out for another 1 to 2 minutes before you put on a fresh diaper.
Repeat 2 times every day to treat diaper rash in just 3 days.

Method 4: Sunburn

Suffering from a nasty sunburn? You can use oatmeal to take the heat off the burn and soothe your skin. The oatmeal will also help restore moisture to your sunburned skin. Plus, it will form a protective layer while the skin heals naturally.

Things you'll need:


Oatmeal (anti-inflammatory) 1 cup
Cheesecloth

Single-Step Treatment: Soak in an oatmeal bath once daily



Bundle up 1 cup of oatmeal in cheesecloth and secure it with a twist tie.
Dunk the bundle into your bathwater for 10 minutes.
Soak your body in the water for 15 to 20 minutes.
The skin irritation will slowly fade away, and you'll feel the texture of your skin improving. Repeat once daily until your skin is restored to normal.

Method 5: Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition that leads to persistent redness on the face, along with pimples, burning and facial swelling. Being rich in antioxidants, oatmeal can help take away the redness and bring down the burning sensation. Combining oatmeal with yogurt will supply your skin with probiotics to reduce pimples and maintain healthier skin. 

Things you'll need:


Oatmeal (anti-inflammatory) 1 tablespoon
Plain yogurt (probiotic) 1 tablespoon

Step 1. Make a paste of yogurt and oatmeal


Put 1 tablespoon of oatmeal in a bowl.
Add 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt to it.
Mix the two well to get a uniform paste.

Step 2. Apply it daily


Apply an even layer of the paste all over your face, especially on the red patches.
Leave it on for 1 to 2 hours, then rinse it off with water.
Pat your skin dry and apply a light moisturizer.
Repeat once daily until your skin condition improves, and the flare-up is under control.

Method 6: Rashes & Mosquito Bites

Rashes can occur due to an allergic reaction, infection, a health condition or from a bug bite. Irrespective of the cause, oatmeal can bring relief from any kind of rash, owing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Oatmeal also works great for treating mosquito bites.

To treat a rash or a mosquito bite, prepare an oatmeal bath using ground oats, baking soda, and olive oil. The baking soda will help neutralize the pH of your skin and reduce itching. The olive oil will provide essential fatty acids to moisturize the skin for faster healing.

Things you'll need:


Ground oatmeal (anti-inflammatory) ¼ cup
Baking soda (neutralizes the skin's pH) 2 tablespoons
Olive oil (moisturizes skin) 1½ tablespoons

Step 1. Combine oatmeal, baking soda, and olive oil

Add oatmeal, baking soda, and olive oil in a bowl

Put ¼ cup of oatmeal in a bowl.
Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to it.
Add 1½ tablespoons of olive oil as well.

Step 2. Mix well & add it to your bathwater



Use a spoon to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
Add the mixture to your bathwater and stir well.
Soak in the prepared bath for 15 to 20 minutes to relieve irritation.
Rinse your skin with water and pat dry.
A single soak will relieve a mosquito bite.
For rashes, repeat once daily until the rash is gone for good.

Method 7: Keratosis Pilaris, Chigger Bites, Hives & Shingles

You can also use oatmeal for skin conditions like keratosis pilaris, which leads to the formation of small bumps all over your skin. Oatmeal is also effective in treating bug bites, such as chigger bites, or hives. Plus, it can bring immense relief from itching caused by the varicella-zoster virus, also known as shingles.

The procedure remains the same irrespective of the condition. Simply use an oatmeal scrub to gently slough off the affected skin until the problem is completely gone.

Single-Step Method: Combine oatmeal and water and apply



Put 1 tablespoon of colloidal oatmeal in a bowl.
Add enough water to form a runny paste.
Mix the ingredients well until you get a lump-free paste.
Apply the paste on the affected area and rub it in circular motions for 2 to 3 minutes.
Wash it off and pat your skin dry.
Buff your skin with the oatmeal scrub 1 or 2 times daily until it smoothens out and the itching is completely gone.

Method 8: Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that leads to an overproduction of healthy skin cells that accumulate on the surface as patches. These patches can become excessively dry and lead to itching and even bleeding.

Oatmeal is an excellent anti-inflammatory that will help soothe your sore skin, reduce itching and also improve the texture of the skin by keeping it moisturized.

Single-Step Treatment: Soak in an oatmeal bath twice daily



Mix 1 cup of colloidal oatmeal into your bathtub filled with warm water. It's best to use colloidal oatmeal, as the whole grains will sink to the bottom and would also be difficult to clean later.
Soak your body in it for 20 to 25 minutes.
Thoroughly rinse your body with warm water and pat your skin dry.
Follow with a moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Repeat twice daily until your psoriatic patches heal completely.

Method 9: Jock Itch

You can also use oatmeal for skin conditions like jock itch, a fungal infection that can develop when there is excessive moisture in the groin area. The infection is characterized by red and inflamed skin that can itch or burn.

To most effectively treat jock itch, use oatmeal along with Epsom salt. The oatmeal reduces the redness and irritation. The salt helps draw moisture out of the infected area and also kills the fungal growth. This remedy also uses lavender essential oil to further soothe the skin and prevent the infection from spreading.

Things you'll need:



Oatmeal (anti-inflammatory) 2 cups
Epsom salt (antiseptic) 1 cup
Lavender essential oil (soothes skin) 10 to 12 drops

Step 1. Combine oatmeal, Epsom salt, and lavender oil



Put 2 cups of oatmeal in a large bowl.
Add 1 cup of Epsom salt to it.
Add 10 to 12 drops of lavender essential oil.

Step 2. Mix well & add it to your bathwater daily



Mix all the ingredients well.
Draw a bath with warm water and add the prepared mix to it. Blend it in well.
Soak your body in it for 20 minutes.
Rinse your body thoroughly with plain water and pat your skin dry.
Repeat once every day to heal your jock itch.

Tips to manage skin allergies and other conditions

While oats are naturally gluten-free, some commercial brands do have traces of wheat. If you are allergic to gluten, make sure that you buy the gluten-free variety of oats only for any of the above remedies. When using oatmeal in your bathwater, be careful stepping in and out of the bathtub. Oatmeal can make your tub slippery.

Oatmeal can be difficult to remove from your bathtub. You can either use colloidal oatmeal or wrap whole oats in a cheesecloth, muslin cloth or old sock and dunk it in your bathwater. Oats are not just good for ailments. Check out how oats can be used for beauty benefits.

Oatmeal is the best way to combat the three major problems that eczema cause. Drawing an oatmeal bath for eczema protects the skin, helps maintain pH level, and the fat in it acts as an emollient which moisturizes and stops the itch. Oatmeal is the best way to combat the three major problems at once. My guide is for infants and toddlers, but you can do this for yourself as well. Here is your step by step guide to oatmeal baths for eczema.



Step One Prepare Lukewarm Water

The recommended temperature for a bath for a baby is 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep the water at a medium temperature that will not chill or overheat the baby. Use your elbow to test the water for a warm temperature. As an adult the bath water should not be too much hotter than the normal body temperature, but you will have to determine what that is for yourself. Recommended bath temperatures change and they cause great debates. Keep in mind that the hotter the water the more you will dry out your skin.



Step Two – Add Colloidal Oatmeal to Water

Colloidal oatmeal is processed from rolled oats and designed to be absorbed by the skin. Regular oatmeal particles are not designed for skin absorption and you can debate if it works as well in a bath. Aveeno is one brand that has created a products specifically for a oatmeal bath for eczema. The Aveeno colloidal oatmeal packets are simple, quick, and they work wonders. I like to buy them in bulk so I am always ready for an oatmeal bath. They are great to have when you need to pr epare a quick bath for an unexpected flare up. However, If I don't have the packets I use what I have on hand.

To use regular oats place the oatmeal in a knee-high stocking and drop it in the bath. Squeeze the knee-high being careful not to break the bag or you'll have a big mess to clean. Natural oats are different that colloidal oatmeal, so you may want to allow time for the bag to sit a little while before you get in. You can also tie the bag to the faucet to let the water run through it while the tub fills. A quick way to get the oatmeal to seep into the bath water and your skin is to grind them in a food processor first.



Step Three Stir the Oatmeal into the Water

Be careful not to let it all sit on the bottom give the oatmeal a gentle mix with your hands. The process of using natural oats is different. Squeeze the knee-high being careful not to break the bag or you'll have a big mess to clean. Natural oats do not dissolve in the water, so you may want to allow time for the bag to sit a little while before you get in.

Step Four Soak in the Bath

Now you climb in, it's as simple as that! Add oils that your skin loves to the water before you get in if you have them. Be careful not to slip. Allow time for the skin to soak in the oatmeal. People with dry and eczema prone skin should take quick baths, but in this case wait a bit longer. Use a loofah to massage the oatmeal water into the skin. The oatmeal bag can be your loofah if you are using one. No need to use soap during this process. Soap can counteract the oatmeal soaking into the skin. This is a good time to bathe with alternative cleansers like oils.



Step Five Moisturize your Skin

Never forget, no matter what kind of bath you take, to always moisturize your damp skin. Another emollient enriched moisturizer will give you pillow soft skin. For a baby use this step as a moment to relax them by applying the cream with a gentle massage. This will be calming and take away the itch long enough for the baby to be rocked to sleep.

After moisturizing you are all done with your oatmeal bath for eczema. You will be able to see and feel the difference in your baby's skin. To learn more about creating a skin care routine for a baby with eczema read Soothing Skin Care Regimen and Daily Eczema Routine. If you have any questions drop them in the comments below. Follow me on twitter and communicate with me using the #eczemama. As always happy parenting and enjoy bath time.

Giving your child an oatmeal bath is a simple, effective, and inexpensive solution for a variety of pediatric skin conditions. It can be used for everything from soothing a sore bottom from diaper rash to hydrating dry skin and offering relief from eczema. Not only is this good for children, but you can also use it yourself for itchy or dry skin problems.

When your doctor recommends an oatmeal bath for a skin condition, you could buy a commercial product, but instead, you can make your own at home for around a dollar, using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.



Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Blender, food processor, or coffee grinder. Warm water.
1 cup of oatmeal or 1/3 cup for babies. Unflavored instant oatmeal, quick oats, or slow cooking oats all work equally well.

If you find you can't grind the oatmeal finely enough, you may want to use a muslin bag, cheesecloth, or pantyhose as a bag for the oatmeal in the bath.



Steps for Making the Oatmeal Bath

Blend or process the oats on the highest setting in your food processor, blender, or coffee grinder until you have a very fine, consistent powder.

Test a tablespoon of the ground oats to see if they are ground fine enough to absorb water. Stir one tablespoon of the ground oats into a glass of warm water.

If the oats readily absorb into the water, turning the liquid into a milky-looking substance with a silky feel, you've blended long enough.

If the liquid doesn't turn milky, keep processing the oats to grind them even finer. Test again. Repeat until you get a milky solution with a silky feel.

If you are unable to grind the oatmeal fine enough that it will be powdered and not leave a mess on the bottom of the tub, then another solution is to grind it as much as you can and put it into a small muslin bag or tie it in a cheesecloth (you can also use pantyhose). If you find yourself with a mess to clean out of the tub that you'd rather avoid, that is a good solution.



How to Give an Oatmeal Bath

Pour your homemade oatmeal into a tub of running warm water and stir the water with your hand several times to ensure even distribution. Feel along the bottom of the tub for clumps and break up any you find. Allow your child to soak in the tub for 15 to 20 minutes. You may even want to gently rub some of the oatmeal directly on the skin.

If you've used a bag to contain the oatmeal, run a hot bath and place the bag in it while the water cools down to an appropriate temperature for your child. You may want to set a timer; be sure that the water isn't too hot before you give your child a bath.

Be careful transporting your little one in and out the bath. Oatmeal will make the tub even more slippery than usual. Pat your child's skin dry with a soft towel.

An oatmeal bath can be given once or twice a day, or more frequently if your pediatrician advises doing so.



Skin Conditions Soothed by Oatmeal Baths

Parents and doctors alike have been turning to the skin-soothing powers of oatmeal for centuries. It's not surprising, then, that you'll find finely powdered ("colloidal") oatmeal listed among the ingredients in many body soaks, moisturizers and soaps (for kids and adults). Oatmeal is a natural way to lock in the body's moisture, protect the skin, and soothe any irritation or itching.



Here are just a few common pediatric skin conditions that can be treated with an oatmeal bath:

Anal itching (often from pinworms)
Baby acne
Chickenpox
Diaper rash
Dry skin
Eczema
Insect Bites
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac
Shingles
Sunburn
Windburn




Summary

Oatmeal baths are great for your baby, but you may find them soothing for any itchy rash, sunburn, dry skin, or eczema. Now that you've mastered using it for your child, don't hesitate to try it yourself. Discuss it with your doctor if she hasn't already suggested it to you for your own skin problems.

TOP 5 COLLOIDAL OATMEAL BENEFITS AND USES: BATHS, ECZEMA, SOAPS AND LOTIONS

Colloidal oatmeal's growing popularity in skin care is no surprise. Here is your complete guide to getting the most out of it right at home.

There aren't many things more annoying than having itchy skin and not being able to do anything about it. No one wants to have to slather chemical filled creams and soaps on themselves to stop the scratching, but what's a person to do?

Enter colloidal oatmeal. It has been used for thousands of years to relieve itchy, damaged skin and is very simple to prepare. Read on for at-home methods of unlocking the heal powers of oatmeal.

What is Colloidal Oatmeal?



Colloidal oatmeal is a form of oats used in skincare products produced by finely grinding oats and boiling them, making it into a colloid (and giving it its name).

A colloid is a solution of tiny particles suspended in a liquid like water, gel or cream. Without grinding down the oats they would just sink to the bottom of the liquid, instead of remaining evenly dispersed and completely mixed. This how the magic is achieved, it lets your skin actually absorb and use all its benefits.

The only difference between regular oatmeal and colloidal is one is kept whole and eaten as breakfast, the other is milled and used as a skin treatment.

Colloidal Oatmeal Benefits



When talking benefits, we have to point out that oats are rich in beta-glucans, which can reduce skin inflammation and even stimulate collagen production. It was also proven that this magic grain has anti-aging and reparative properties which can be used on all skin types.

Studies have shown that it binds to the skin and creates a protective barrier against irritants while also providing additional nutrients. The protective layer created by the oatmeal helps retain the skin's natural moisture. Oats are able to absorb water and bind it to the skin.

In addition to these calming effects, this ingredient also acts as a gentle exfoliator for skin, excellent for removing dead cells.

Some other benefits are:
Improves skin dryness and scaling
Alleviates itching and irritation
Anti-Aging
Repairs damaged skin
Moisturizes the skin
Reduces inflammation caused by acne
Helps soothe bug bites, burns and other skin irritations
Relieves symptoms of eczema, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis

Using Colloidal Oatmeal to treat Eczema, Psoriasis and Dermatitis



Due to its impressive ability to sooth itchy skin it is often used to help relieve eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and other skin conditions.

Research has shown that soaking in a oatmeal bath can relieve the irritation of eczema and helped normalize pH levels in the skin.

Even though the Ancient Egyptians in 2,000 BC recognized the health properties of oats, it wasn't until 2003 that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration officially approved this form of oatmeal as an effective ingredient to treat different skin conditions.

How to Get the Most Out of Colloidal Oatmeal



Oats are rich in saponins (compounds found in grains), which give this ingredient remarkable cleansing and moisturizing qualities. Because of this, it can be used in many different ways, such as:

Cleanser
Moisturizer
Scalp Relief
Bath Soak
Exfoliant
Face Mask
To start making these at home you need to know how to turn regular oats into colloidal oats.

How to Make Colloidal Oatmeal at Home



With the many benefits and uses of oats we recommend making it at home. It will save you money and let you use it whenever you need it.

Directions:
Get some whole rolled oats from your local grocery store (preferably organic). Grind a few cups of oats in your blender, food processor or coffee grinder until it turns into a fluffy, soft powder. The finer, the easier it will dissolve.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh.
Now that you have your new secret weapon it's time to put it into action.

How to Make an Oatmeal Bath



Soaking in an oat bath for 10-15 minutes daily has been seen to ease itching and burning by up to 67%. Making your own oatmeal bath is simple.

Here's how:
Run your bath with warm water and while the tub is filling, add two or three cups of powder.
Soak in the tub for 10-15 minutes.
That's it. Easy, fast, effective!

Treating an Itchy Scalp



Colloidal oatmeal is also recommended for an itchy scalp since this ingredient can relieve irritation.

Here's how:

Mix 1/3 cup of colloidal oatmeal with a pitcher of warm water.
Wash your hair with your favorite shampoo, rinse thoroughly.
Gently massaging the mixture into your hair and scalp.
Cover your head with a shower cap for 15 minutes.
Rinse off and air dry your hair.

DIY Oatmeal Soap



If you have sensitive skin, making your own soap with ots can work wonders. Not only is it great for soothing inflammation and redness, but it's great for exfoliating and sloughing off dead skin, dirt and excess oils.

You can make soap without the hassle of dealing with lye by purchasing some basic, natural or organic bars of soap and melting them down to use as your base.

To make oatmeal soap follow these directions:

Grate 2 bars of soap into a crock pot set to low.
Add 1-2 oz of chamomile tea and stir often to avoid burning or sticking.
Once mixture is completely melted, remove from heat.
Add 4 tbsp of colloidal oatmeal and 2 tbsp of regular oatmeal.
You can add any other ingredients that you'd like, such as essential oils, honey or herbs.
Pour mixture into muffin tins and let cool for 24 hours before removing it from the mold.
Let the bars of soap sit for a few more days to completely dry.

Oatmeal Lotion and Cream

Treating skin with a cream containing oats and other soothing ingredients daily will help stop itching and scratching immensely. Making your own lotion at home will be tough because it requires several ingredients and is much harder to do properly.

You can use: Aloe vera, coconut oil, Blue-green algae, Vitamin E, MSM, Olive oil, Hemp seed oil,Manuka honey, Calendula, Plumeria, Cocoa seed butter, Shea butter,Chamomile

Summary

If you have dry, itchy skin, you might find great results by using colloidal oats. It has anti-inflammatory, soothing and moisturizing results and can help with many skin conditions.

After making your own or finding a brand you trust use it in a bath, as a scalp/body wash wash or a cream. This ingredient can do it all!

Whatever you are using it for remember to go organic. It will give you the best results and avoid allergic reactions. Have you tried using skin superfood? 

Chickenpox

Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, chickenpox is a contagious disease that lasts 5 to 10 days. It is known for its uncomfortable and itchy rash that progresses into fluid-filled blisters and then scabs.

Although it usually starts on the chest, face or back, chickenpox can cover the entire body. There is a chickenpox vaccine.



Oatmeal bath for chickenpox
Most cases of chickenpox are in children under age 15, so when you suggest an oatmeal bath, their first thought will be of a tub brimming with the sticky, hot breakfast food.

You can reassure your child that is not the case. And they'll be happy to know an oatmeal bath should ease their annoying itch.

This soothing treatment uses colloidal oatmeal that's ground into a fine powder so it will mix with the bathwater and not all sink to the bottom.

Colloidal oatmeal has been used as an at-home, skin-soothing remedy for generations. But science backs up its efficacy, too.

Multiple studies, including those from 2015 (by Johnson & Johnson researchers), 2012Trusted Source, and 2007Trusted Source, note that colloidal oats have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Colloidal oats can moisturize skin as well as act as an emollient to improve dry skin. They also have high levels of starch to work as an agent that soothes and protects skin.



How to make an oatmeal bath

Start filling a clean bathtub with tepid water.
Add about 1/3 cup of colloidal oatmeal. By pouring in the oatmeal under the tap when it is running, it should mix into the bathwater easily. Once the tub is filled to an appropriate level, mix with your hand, making sure to stir up any oatmeal that had sunk to the bottom. The water should have a silky feel and look milky. Soaking in an oatmeal bath

Your child should stay in the oatmeal bath however long your doctor suggests, typically about 10 minutes. Depending of the age of the child, you can scoop up and dribble the milky water over the parts of your child that are not under water.
Be aware that the colloidal oats can make the tub extremely slippery. When finished, rinse well, then use a soft towel to blot and pat your child dry. Rubbing can irritate sensitive skin.



Where is colloidal oatmeal available?
Colloidal oatmeal is available at most drugstores and online. You can also make your own colloidal oatmeal.

How to make colloidal oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is regular oatmeal that has been powdered. If you have a food processor, blender or coffee grinder, and oatmeal (not instant), you're ready to make colloidal oatmeal.

Pour 1/3 cup of the oatmeal into your blender set to the highest setting and grind it into a fine, even powder. It needs to be very fine so it will mix into the bathwater and not sink to the bottom of the tub.

Test your grind by adding about 1 tablespoon of the powdered oats into 8 ounces of warm water. With a good stir, the powder should quickly turn the water into a milky color with a silky feel. If most of the powder sinks to the bottom of the glass, you need to grind it finer.



Takeaway

Colloidal oatmeal baths can offer some relief to the extreme itchiness that accompanies chickenpox. Check with your child's doctor for a recommendation of how many soothing baths your child can take each day until the disease runs its course.

Colloidal oatmeal is readily available to purchase or you can make it yourself. Either way it can help your child with the symptoms of chickenpox.