Oat meal extract – a source of beta-glucans, avenanthramides, and saponins. FDA classifies colloidal oatmeal as an OTC skin protectant against itching and irritation. Suitable for atopic skin, eczema, and post-laser recovery. Pregnancy-safe.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
One of few cosmetic ingredients with FDA recognition as a skin protectant. A series of RCTs confirm efficacy in atopic dermatitis, post-procedure recovery, and itching. A reference soothing ingredient.
Oat meal extract is produced by fine-milling whole Avena sativa grains followed by water-glycerin or ethanol extraction. Unlike colloidal oatmeal (USP-grade), which is the milled flour itself, the extract is a liquid or powder of water-soluble components. INCI: Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract. Active components: • Beta-glucans (1,3/1,4) – water-holding polysaccharides and immunomodulators. • Avenanthramides (A, B, C) – phenolic alkaloids with anti-inflammatory action via NF-κB inhibition. • Saponins – natural surfactants with a mild cleansing action. • Polyphenols and flavonoids – antioxidants. The FDA included colloidal oatmeal in the OTC monograph (21 CFR 347) as a skin protectant to relieve itching, irritation, and minor rashes. This is a rare case where a dermatology ingredient has regulatory backing with a stronger evidence base than typical cosmetics. Clinical data. A series of RCTs showed that 1-2% colloidal oatmeal and extracts relieve atopic-dermatitis symptoms in children and adults, reduce itching after laser coagulation and chemical peels, and prevent seborrheic dermatitis flares. Effects are comparable to topical 1% hydrocortisone for short-term mild cases (Eichenfield 2014). Pregnancy safety. Topical use is safe. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. No restrictions for pregnant or lactating women. Oat allergy in celiac patients is possible, but topical oat extracts are usually well tolerated – the risk is lower than for oral intake. Skin tolerance. Very low irritation and allergen profile. Non-comedogenic. One of the reference safe ingredients for very sensitive, pediatric, and atopic skin.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Oat meal extract – a source of beta-glucans, avenanthramides, and saponins.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract. It may also appear as: Oat Meal Extract, Colloidal Oatmeal, Экстракт овсяной муки.
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Suitable for