Colloidal Oat Powder

What is colloidal oat powder?

Colloidal Oat Powder (Avena Sativa Kernel Flour) is a finely ground form of whole oat grains. It is processed so that the soluble and insoluble components remain suspended in water – hence the word “colloidal.” This powdered form of oats retains the natural oils, proteins, polysaccharides, vitamins (such as B1 and B5) and antioxidants naturally found in oats. Colloidal oats are known for their emollient, moisturizing and protective properties and have been used in skin care for centuries.

Benefits of colloidal oat powder

Colloidal oats is one of the few natural ingredients recognized by the FDA (USA) as a skin protectant. Some key benefits:

• Soothing: Reduces redness, itching and irritation in sensitive or irritated skin, e.g. eczema, psoriasis, sunburn or insect bites.
• Hydrating: The beta-glucans in oats help retain moisture in the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
• Antioxidant effect: Contains avenanthramides, antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and can inhibit inflammatory responses.
• Mild cleansing: Acts as a natural cleanser (saponin-like effect), without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
• Skin Protection: Forms a fine, breathable layer on the skin that protects against external influences.

Use in cosmetics and skin care

Colloidal oat powder is widely used in a variety of cosmetic formulations:

• Face and body creams: Added as a soothing and restorative ingredient, especially for dry and sensitive skin.
• Lotion and milk: Suitable in mild lotions for babies or for use after sunbathing.
• Masks: In powder masks, it acts as a softener and skin restorer, often combined with clay or plant extracts.
• Shower gels and bath products: Added to bath milk or bath powders for a relaxing, itch-relieving effect.
• Aftershave and shaving products: Works soothing and helps prevent skin irritation after shaving.

Use in soap

In handmade soap (such as cold process soap or melt-and-pour soap), colloidal oats are a popular ingredient:

• Added to the leaching phase or as an addition at the end of the tracing phase.
• Softening: Ideal for sensitive skin types, baby soap or shaving soap.
• Gentle exfoliating effect: Fine enough to serve as a light scrub without irritating the skin.
• Combinable: Works well with other soothing ingredients such as calendula, chamomile, shea butter and oat milk.

Dosage and usage tips

• In creams/lotions: 0.5-2%
• In masks or bath products: up to 10%
• In soap: 1-5% (depending on desired effect)
  Always use ultrafine colloidal oat powder to avoid a grainy texture.

It is particularly effective in products for sensitive skin, and works excellently in both soaps and face and body care products. A valuable addition for both commercial and DIY formulations.