What Does Putting Oatmeal in Your Bath Do? The Ultimate Guide to Soothing, Healing Oatmeal Baths

As an expert in home renovation and design, I often recommend oatmeal baths to clients as a way to heal and beautify dry, irritated skin. The simple addition of colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath can work wonders to hydrate, exfoliate and soothe the skin naturally.

After testing oatmeal baths to treat my own dry skin this winter, I wanted to share an in-depth guide on how and why they work, back by research. My goal is provide you with expert advice to heal your skin and relax!

A Brief History of Oatmeal Baths

Oatmeal has been used for skin care since ancient Egypt, with records dating back to 2000 BC. Cleopatra was said to take milk and oat baths to soften and brighten her complexion.

Oats were also recognized for their soothing properties in ancient Greece, Rome and by the Arabs during the Middle Ages. In the late 1800s, pharmacists began prescribing oatmeal baths.

Dr. John Hutchinson, a leading specialist in dermatology during the late 19th century, published a book touting the benefits of oatmeal baths. In 1945, his book was revised by dermatologist Dr. Donald M. Pillsbury, who also advocated oatmeal baths.

Today, colloidal oatmeal is a common ingredient in skincare products for dry, sensitive skin. And oatmeal baths remain a safe, effective home remedy for common skin irritations.

Top 5 Reasons To Take an Oatmeal Bath

1. Soothes itchy, irritated skin caused by conditions like eczema, psoriasis, hives, sunburn and insect bites. The compounds in oatmeal have natural anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties that provide relief.

2. Hydrates dry, flaky skin. The polysaccharides in oats coat the skin to seal in moisture. This moisturizing effect combats dryness and improves skin barrier function.

3. Gently exfoliates. The oatmeal granules softly slough away dead skin cells and impurities leaving skin smooth and refreshed.

4. Cleanses skin. Oatmeal has saponins that act as natural cleansers to draw out dirt, oils and bacteria from pores.

5. Relaxes mind and body. The aroma and warm water help soothe nerves for an all-around calming experience.

Now let‘s look at the specific skin-healing ingredients that make oatmeal so effective.

Key Compounds in Oatmeal That Soothe Skin

Avenanthramides: These unique antioxidants found in oats provide strong anti-inflammatory activity to reduce swelling, redness and itching. They also protect against sun damage.

Beta-glucan: This soluble fiber forms a protective film on the skin that binds moisture and smooths rough patches.

Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates lock water into the skin to hydrates and soften.

Saponins: These chemical compounds act as mild cleansers to remove dirt, oil and microbes from pores.

Fatty acids: Components like linoleic acid help reinforce the skin‘s barrier and seal in moisture.

Proteins: Amino acids like glycine and proline improve skin‘s ability to hold onto water.

Vitamin E: This antioxidant strengthens skin cell membranes and nourishes the skin.

Oatmeal Bath Benefits For Specific Skin Conditions

Let‘s look at how oatmeal baths can provide therapeutic relief for some of the most common skin conditions:

Eczema

Eczema causes dry, red, intensely itchy rashes. Colloidal oatmeal baths help restore moisture, reduce inflammation, exfoliate away scales and stop the urge to scratch.

In one study, 52 patients with severe eczema used colloidal oatmeal baths for 14 days. Major improvements were seen in skin dryness, itchiness, scaling and roughness. No adverse effects were reported.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis speeds up skin cell turnover, causing a scaly, thick buildup. The anti-inflammatory action of oatmeal baths can help calm flare-ups and reduce plaques. The exfoliating effect helps lift away scales gently.

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, soaking in an oatmeal bath 20 minutes a day can reduce psoriasis itching and irritation. Always avoid scrubbing or massaging skin.

Chicken Pox

The rash, blisters and itching of chicken pox can disrupt sleep and quality of life. The FDA recommends colloidal oatmeal baths as an effective treatment to help relieve chicken pox symptoms in children.

One study found taking oatmeal baths twice daily reduced the severity and duration of chicken pox in infants and toddlers. Anti-itch creams were avoided.

Poison Ivy

Poison ivy contains urushiol oil that causes redness, swelling, blisters and severe itching upon contact. The avenathramides in oatmeal baths combat skin inflammation and ease the urge to scratch until the rash resolves.

Research shows colloidal oatmeal baths can help poison ivy lesions heal faster. The warm water also helps dry out blisters and reduce oozing and swelling.

Insect Bites and Stings

For mild reactions to insect bites and stings, dermatologists recommend making a paste with colloidal oats and applying it directly to the bite. For more extensive reactions, soak in an oatmeal bath to relieve swelling and itching.

Clinical studies show colloidal oatmeal baths reduce discomfort caused by ant bite reactions better than baking soda and Aveeno baths alone.

Prickly Heat and Sunburns

Oatmeal baths provide a soothing therapy for overheated, sun scorched skin. The anti-inflammatory action reduces inflammation and pain, while the moisturizing compounds prevent peeling, flaking and blistering skin.

How Often Should You Take Oatmeal Baths?

There are no definitive guidelines on oatmeal bath frequency. In general:

• For dry skin, soak 1-2 times per week.
• For itchy skin conditions, start with daily baths until improved.
• For sunburns or poison ivy, take 2-3 baths daily until healed.
• For kids with chickenpox, bathe in oatmeal 2 times a day.

Gauge your bathing frequency based on your symptoms and how your skin responds. If skin becomes dry or irritated, take a break for a few days.

Are Oatmeal Baths Safe?

Oatmeal baths are very safe when done properly. Make sure to:

• Use colloidal oatmeal – not regular oats which can scratch skin.
• Rinse off thoroughly after soaking.
• Supervise children to prevent drowning risk.
• Avoid getting oatmeal in eyes; flush if this occurs.
• See a doctor if new rash develops after use.

Oatmeal baths should not be used by those allergic to or sensitive to oats. Overall, they are very gentle and suitable for all ages when prepared properly.

How Does Oatmeal Work To Moisturize Skin?

Research shows that colloidal oatmeal can help dry skin retain moisture for longer after bathing:

• In a 2007 study, 13 patients with dry skin used an oatmeal bath. Results showed a 38% increase in moisturizing that lasted for up to 8 hours afterwards.

• A 2016 study found colloidal oatmeal improved skin hydration by 33% and made it less prone to irritation.

The beta-glucan and other polysaccharides in oats form a humectant layer on the skin. This attracts and binds water, increasing skin hydration and smoothness.

What‘s The Best Oatmeal To Use For Baths?

Look for oatmeal finely ground into a powder, called colloidal oatmeal. It readily disperses in bath water. Some good options:

• Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatments
• Bulk Supplements Colloidal Oatmeal
• Anthony‘s Organic Colloidal Oatmeal
• Aromafloria Smoothing Bath Milk

Do not use steel cut oats, rolled oats, or coarse oatmeal. These have larger pieces that won‘t dissolve well and may irritate skin.

Baby oatmeal also isn‘t suitable for bathing. Look for oatmeal made specifically for skincare – check the label.

How Does Oatmeal Exfoliate Skin?

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria that clog pores and cause uneven texture. Oatmeal baths provide gentle, natural exfoliation in two ways:

1. Mechanical Action

The coarse oatmeal grains provide just enough friction to slough off dead skin. This reveals the fresh, smooth skin below without harsh scrubbing.

2. Chemical Action

Oatmeal contains saponins – mild cleansers that dissolve dirt, oil and impurities on the skin‘s surface and within pores.

How Long Should You Soak in an Oatmeal Bath?

15-30 minutes is the ideal soak time. This allows the colloidal oatmeal to fully dissolve and penetrate the skin with its soothing, softening effects.

Studies show soaking for at least 15 minutes results in significant improvement in skin dryness, scaling and irritation.

After 30 minutes, the bath may start to cool and the oatmeal‘s oils to wash away. Fingers pruning are a sign it‘s time to get out!

What‘s The Best Water Temperature?

Use warm but not hot water, between 92-100 F. This opens pores to allow the colloidal oatmeal to better absorb.

Hotter water above 100 F (like a hot tub) can be damaging to skin. Cooler water won‘t activate the soothing effects as well.

If bath starts to cool during your soak, add a bit of warm water to maintain the temperature.

Should You Rinse Off After an Oatmeal Bath?

It‘s important to rinse with fresh water after an oatmeal bath to remove any residue. Oatmeal particles left on skin can clog pores or cause new irritations.

After draining the tub, lightly rinse your body using warm water. Avoid harsh scrubbing. Then pat gently with a clean towel.

Rinsing ensures you gain the benefits of the oatmeal without side effects.

How Does Oatmeal Cleanse and Purify Skin?

Oats contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory saponins that gently cleanse and purify in two ways:

1. Removing surface dirt and oil

Saponins are naturally sudsing compounds. When dissolved in water, they lift away dirt, makeup, excess oil and dead cells from the skin‘s surface.

2. Clearing clogged pores

The saponins in oatmeal can also penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve sticky sebum, bacteria and microbes trapped within. This prevents future breakouts.

By cleansing both the surface and depths of the skin, oatmeal baths leave skin clean, pure and refreshed.

How To Dry and Moisturize Skin After an Oatmeal Bath

After rinsing, it‘s vital to lock in the hydrating effects of your oatmeal soak:

• Pat gently with a clean towel to absorb excess water – avoid rubbing.

• Immediately apply a rich, hydrating moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp. Look for body lotions or creams with colloidal oatmeal, ceramides or hyaluronic acid.

• For very dry skin, apply a layer of petroleum jelly over moisturizer to seal in moisture.

• If skin is damp, wear loose cotton clothing until fully dry.

• Reapply moisturizer 2-3 times a day while skin heals.

Proper aftercare ensures your skin stays hydrated and supple!

Oatmeal Bath Add-Ins For Extra Benefits

Consider enhancing your soak with these soothing additives:

• Baking soda – 1/4 cup provides additional exfoliation

• Milk – 1-2 cups further softens and moisturizes

• Honey – 1/4 to 1/2 cup helps destroy bacteria

• Epsom salts – 1-2 cups eases sore muscles

• Essential oils – 5 drops of lavender, chamomile or tea tree oil for aromatherapy

Best Practices for An Soothing Oatmeal Bath

Follow these tips to maximize the soothing, healing effects of your oatmeal soak:

• Use warm, not hot, water around 95-100 F

• Add 2 cups colloidal oatmeal tied in a washcloth or bag

• Agitate and swish bag to disperse oatmeal

• Soak for 15-30 minutes

• Rinse off thoroughly with fresh water

• Pat dry then immediately apply moisturizer

• Use 1-2 times weekly or as needed for itchy skin

• Avoid getting bathwater in eyes, ears or nose

Precautions When Using Oatmeal Baths

While generally safe, be aware of these precautions with oatmeal baths:

• Use only colloidal oatmeal – not large cut oats.

• Supervise children closely due to drowning risk.

• Rinse thoroughly after to avoid skin irritation.

• Don‘t use if you have an oat allergy or sensitivity.

• Avoid adding bath oils which make tub slippery.

• Talk to your doctor if skin doesn‘t improve or worsens.

When prepared properly, an oatmeal bath is gentle enough even for babies!

Should You Use An Oatmeal Bath For Chicken Pox?

Oatmeal baths are an FDA-approved treatment to help soothe the itching and discomfort of chicken pox in children. The anti-inflammatory colloidal oatmeal can:

• Moisturize the eruption sites to prevent scabbing and scarring

• Soothe nerve endings to reduce maddening itchiness

• Exfoliate away scales and dead skin around lesions

• Fight infection due to antimicrobial action

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends colloidal oatmeal baths for children with chicken pox 2-3 times daily. It‘s a safe, effective way to relieve symptoms.

Oatmeal Baths During Pregnancy

Oatmeal baths are typically safe to use for those who are pregnant:

• Colloidal oatmeal is very gentle on skin. However, some doctors may recommend waiting until 2nd trimester or later.

• The warm water is soothing and calming for expectant mothers. Maintain safe bath temperatures below 100 F.

• Rinse off thoroughly after your soak to prevent irritation or rashes.

• Stay well hydrated and drink plenty of water before and after bathing.

• Talk to your OBGYN first, especially if you have complications or other skin sensitivities.

An oatmeal bath can help relieve common pregnancy skin issues like itchy stretching skin, eczema or heat rash. Enjoy this gentle ritual!

Oatmeal baths are an effective, natural way to hydrate, exfoliate and soothe all types of dry, itchy skin disorders. The active compounds in colloidal oatmeal help moisturize, reduce inflammation, cleanse and ease nerves.

When using oatmeal for bathing, be sure to use finely ground colloidal oatmeal – not regular oats. Soak for 15-30 minutes in warm water then rinse off completely. Follow up with a gentle moisturizer to lock in hydration and healing benefits.

Incorporating healing oatmeal baths into your skincare routine helps skin stay soft, smooth and calm every day. Have you tried oatmeal baths? Let me know your tips and experiences in the comments!