Benefits of oatmeal for skin

“The best part about life is that there’s magic in ordinary places.”

We sometimes tend to overlook things in lieu of them being ordinary, thinking of them to be insignificant. But very often, secret treasures are found within them, only if we delve a little deeper. If revered like they deserve to be, they have the potential to transform our lives. And in this case, our skin. 

If we’ve peaked your interest and you’re wondering what we’re going on about, we won't test you much longer. We’re talking about none other than oatmeal. A breakfast staple and something that can be found lying in the pantry of almost every household, oatmeal is more than just a nutritious meal. It is packed with all the goodness that your skin needs to look absolutely beautiful and flawless. 

Keep on reading if you’re interested to learn how!

Gently cleanses skin

While most cleansers strip the skin of natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and flaky, oatmeal is extremely gentle yet just as effective. It contains a group of carbohydrates found in plants, known as saponins. They have soap like properties, helping oatmeal to cleanse the skin, and thereby remove dirt and impurities. Oatmeal also works wonderfully well in absorbing oil, which enables it to help keep the skin free of clogged pores and even acne breakouts. 

Exfoliates the skin

The texture of ground oatmeal is such that it works great as an exfoliator. What makes oatmeal a great choice for exfoliation is that it gently helps to remove dead skin cells and build-up, enabling newer and smoother skin to emerge. 

Moisturizes the skin

Oatmeal is nothing short of a superfood, and is packed with proteins and nutrients that are extremely beneficial for the skin’s health. One such nutrient it contains is vitamin E which is known for its moisturizing properties. It helps to nourish the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth p, and looking youthful and radiant. 

Relieves itching 

Oatmeal baths are recommended when one experiences extreme itching all over their body. This is due to oatmeal’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which lend it the ability to soothe itchy and irritated skin. In fact, oatmeal can soothe even the most stubborn of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, giving you the relief that you so desperately seek. 

Reduces inflammation 

Every so often, our skin has an adverse reaction to something that we apply on it, leading to redness, swelling and itching. In such instances, an oatmeal mask greatly helps to reduce the inflammation. This also means that it greatly helps to reduce the redness caused by angry acne breakouts, helping to alleviate the pain associated with it. 

Brightens complexion

Sun spots, acne scars and blemishes can all cause your complexion to look dull and drab. But with regular use of oatmeal, your skin will regain its glow and luster in no time. Oatmeal contains amino acids which can help lighten and fade any marks and discoloration and the vitamin B1 helps to boost blood circulation, enhancing the skin’s brightness and glow. 

Fights aging

If all of the above wasn’t enough, oatmeal promotes collagen production in the skin. Yes, you heard that right! Collagen is known to give the skin a firmer and lifted appearance, as well as lending it elasticity and youthfulness. It helps to fight wrinkles, fine lines giving you smooth and flawless skin. 

How to use oatmeal for skin

This ingredient can be used in multiple ways, all of which are extremely beneficial for the skin. The following are a few simple ways we like to use this gem of nature:

Oatmeal mask for acne

Simply boil the oatmeal and mix it thoroughly to convert it into a fine paste. Apply it onto your face for 20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. 

Oatmeal bath for dry skin

If your skin feels excessively dry and itchy, it’s time for an oatmeal bath. Add some oatmeal along with baking soda to a tub and submerge yourself in it for 20-25 minutes. You will notice a drastic change in your skin’s condition. 

Oatmeal scrub

Mix together oatmeal, sugar, coconut oil and some lukewarm water. Gently scrub the face for a few minutes using the mixture and leave it on for a further 20 minutes before rinsing it off. Repeat it twice weekly for best results.