This Simple Ingredient Is The Ultimate Beauty All-Rounder

We’ve proudly sung the praises of oats – yep, as in the breakfast food – once before, but today we’re doubling down on the many benefits of this skincare ingredient. Sure, it may not sound quite as sexy as vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, but oats can actually do wonders for your skin. Even Aveeno (the scientific name for the common oat) concocted an entire skincare line based on the stuff, and it’s incorporated into some of today’s trendiest products.

Why Oatmeal is an Amazing Skincare Ingredient

“The oats found in skincare products are very finely milled to a powder, known as colloidal oatmeal, which is processed with the whole bran and then boiled down to produce an extract,” says Dr. Peterson Pierre, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. “This extract is full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, oil-replenishing lipids, as well as moisturizing beta-glucans that moisturize, soothe, and protect your skin.”

This oat extract also acts as a humectant, which means it draws water into your skin, and its lipid content means it also helps create a protective barrier across your skin. Dr. Pierre says it’s an especially legit miracle worker for those with sensitive skin – including those with acne, eczema, and psoriasis – and can help soothe itchiness, dryness, and inflammation.

Oatmeal Skincare Products to Try

Ready to dive into some oatmeal-infused skincare goodies? Start with one of these bomb products.

1. Summer Fridays Overtime Mask, $44

Source: Summer Fridays

With five products total in their lineup, Summer Fridays is one of those brands that believe in quality over quantity. Their Overtime Mask – a clarifying, nourishing mask that gently buffs away dead cells to create a luminous glow – is one of the most recent additions to the line. In addition to oat kernel protein, it contains exfoliating apricot seed powder, hydrating and restorative pumpkin, and antioxidant-rich vitamin E.

2. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Gentle Cleansing Bar, $7

Source: First Aid

Not all soap bars are created equally, but this super gentle version from First Aid Beauty is the real deal. It effectively sweeps away dirt, grime, and makeup while still leaving your skin super hydrated. Dr. Pierre says, “When formulated in a cleanser, oatmeal can absorb excess oil on the skin, thereby helping with acne. It also contains ingredients called saponins which remove dirt and oil that clog pores and help with gentle exfoliation.”

3. Aveeno Scalp Soothing Oat Milk Blend Shampoo, $7

Source: Aveeno

The skin on your head deserves some TLC, too. Aveeno’s Scalp Soothing Oat Milk Blend Shampoo puts oat front and center in the formulation to help soothe, hydrate, and rebalance sensitive scalps. It’s also infused with almond milk to nourish your strands and scalp.

4. Sephora’s Oat Muesli Mask, $7

Source: Sephora

This budget-friendly oat muesli mask from Sephora is basically like a nutritious breakfast for your face. It’s especially ideal for those with large pores and acne and can also help rebalance both dry and oily skin. To use, simply apply a thin layer and let it set for 10 minutes, then massage it a bit to exfoliate before rinsing.

5. Tatcha The Indigo Cream Soothing Skin Protectant, $85

Source: Tatcha

Though it’s def on the spendy side, this nourishing cream from Tatcha is a worthwhile treat. It’s loaded with colloidal oatmeal to protect and hydrate, natural Japanese indigo to soothe and restore, sophora japonica to improve texture and elasticity, and Tatcha’s proprietary blend of green tea, rice, and algae for a healthy, radiant glow.

6. Peach Slices Dreamy Soft Fluffy Hand Cream in Coconut, $6

Source: Peach Slices

Not only is this hand cream from Peach Slices adorable AF, but it’s also super nourishing thanks to a rich blend of shea butter, argan oil, and oat extract. It’s an especially good one to keep in your purse during these blustery winter months. BTW, oatmeal is also in their Dreamy Soft Smooth Hand Lotion, which smells like peach nectar.