Making Cosmetics

Colloidal Oatmeal, Additive

INCI Name: Oat (Avena sativa) Flour

Colloidal Oatmeal is generally used in making cosmetics such as an additive to bath water, which moisturises dry and problem skin, especially that of eczemic skin in children. Colloidal Oatmeal consists of key active ingredients such as beta glucan, which acts as a natural, deep penetrating moisturizer and avenanthramides, natural antihistamines that reduce skin irritations and itching.

The mucilage is gentle, and contains oil from the oat's germ. Because it is so gentle, up to 1 tablespoon in a baby's bath, to ½ cup in an adult's bath may be dispersed by adding it under the running tap.

DIY Tips and Tricks

• In sensitive skin-care products: 0.05 - 2%

• Lotions and creams: 0.05 - 2%

• Bath powders: 0.05 - 2%

• Hair-care products: 0.05 - 2%

Solubility: This is a USP pharmaceutical grade of superfine oat flour (200 mesh) which dissolves in water.

Shelf Life: Colloidal oatmeal has a shelf life of add 1 to 2 years with proper storage (store in well closed container away from moisture). Any unused product should be kept sealed in the original container to avoid contamination.