Oatmeal baths are a common recommendation for individuals with skincare conditions like eczema and psoriasis. But are oatmeal baths really beneficial? This guide will introduce the what, why, and how of oatmeal baths to make the best decision for your condition.
What Is an Oatmeal Bath?
An oatmeal bath is a bath that includes colloidal oatmeal. This special type of oatmeal binds to the skin to form a protective barrier. This helps to moisturize the skin while also soothing inflammation and irritation.
Why You Should Take an Oatmeal Bath for Sensitive Skin
Oatmeal has been used for centuries to soothe itching and irritation. This includes use in skincare products and extraneous uses such as oatmeal baths.
But do oatmeal baths provide any real benefits backed by science? Absolutely!
Colloidal oatmeal contains molecular components with proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, avenanthramides. These have been shown to “inhibit the activity of nuclear factor kappaB and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and histamine, well known key mechanisms in the pathophysiology of inflammatory dermatoses.”
Which skin conditions are helped with oatmeal baths? While the list is not exhaustive, it includes:
- atopic dermatitis
- chickenpox
- contact dermatitis
- diaper rash
- dry, itchy skin
- eczema
- psoriasis
You may even find an oatmeal bath to be soothing for a short-term reaction, such as those to insect bites or plants (e.g., poison ivy).
How to Prepare an Oatmeal Bath
If you want to give an oatmeal bath a try, here’s how to do it.
- Purchase colloidal oatmeal. Alternatively, you can purchase plain rolled oats at the grocery store and prepare your own colloidal oatmeal by grinding it into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. How do you know when you’ve ground your oatmeal enough? It should dissolve instantly in warm water.
- Prepare a warm bath without the addition of any soaps, oils, or suds. Be sure it’s not too hot or this will quickly draw moisture from your skin and defeat the purpose of the oatmeal.
- Begin by adding oatmeal to the bath in half-cup increments. You can add up to one-and-a-half cups of oatmeal, though one cup is usually enough. The water should appear milky and feel silky when touched.
- Soak for no longer than 15 minutes to prevent moisture loss.
- After you’re down, pat dry with a towel and apply a moisturizer.
While you should feel a measure of instant relief, the more you take, the more you’ll feel ongoing relief, in most cases. You should limit it to no more than two per week to avoid drying out your skin.
Alternatives to Oatmeal Baths
While oatmeal baths have their benefits, you may be wondering if there are safe alternatives. Oatmeal baths are the “gold standard” in the world of dermatology, but other options do exist. The two main alternatives to oatmeal baths are baking soda and Epsom salt.
Baking Soda Baths
While far beyond proven, there is evidence to suggest that baking soda baths can be beneficial for individuals who suffer from scaling. It’s thought that the pH levels of baking soda help to neutralize the skin which reduces inflammation and irritation.
Just add one-half cup to one cup of baking soda to lukewarm water. Allow to dissolve and then soak for a maximum of 40 minutes.
Epsom Salt Baths
Epsom salt baths are another popular option for individuals with sensitive skin.
Epsom salt is a compound of magnesium and sulfate in rock-like formation. It has been used for hundreds of years to treat sensitive skin. But is there any scientific evidence for its benefits?
There is evidence to suggest that bathing in a magnesium-rich salt solution is beneficial. For example, it can improve skin barrier function, enhances skin hydration, and reduce inflammation in atopic dry skin.
Add one-and-a-quarter cups of Epsom salt to a bathtub as it fills with hot water. Allow the water to cool to lukewarm, and then soak for a maximum of 15 minutes.
Conclusion
Oatmeal baths are an easy at-home treatment for numerous skin conditions.
Do keep in mind that oatmeal baths are not the be-all end-all of treatment, however. They should be used sparingly in conjunction with a dermatologist-approved treatment plan.