What it is
Colloidal oatmeal is whole oat grain ground to a fine, uniform powder that disperses readily in water-based formulas. It is widely used to soften, soothe, and comfort the skin and to support the skin's surface, owing to its content of starches, beta-glucan, and other oat constituents. In sunscreens it is included to give a gentle, conditioning, calming feel, particularly in products aimed at sensitive skin.
Safety & warnings
Colloidal oatmeal is generally very well tolerated and is favored in products for sensitive and easily irritated skin. People with oat or grain allergies should approach with caution. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen and is not comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, produced by finely milling whole oat kernels (Avena sativa).
History
Oat-based preparations have a long history in skin care for their soothing qualities, and finely milled colloidal oatmeal became a standard cosmetic and topical ingredient in the twentieth century.
Questions everyone asks
Why is colloidal oatmeal added to sunscreens?
It provides a soothing, conditioning quality and supports the skin surface, which suits products designed for sensitive skin.
Is colloidal oatmeal the same as regular oats?
It is whole oat milled to a very fine, uniform powder so it disperses smoothly in cosmetic formulas, unlike coarse food oats.