Colloidal Oatmeal

Overview and identity

Colloidal oatmeal is an FDA-recognized over-the-counter skin protectant ingredient. [1] It is not the same as ordinary oatmeal from the kitchen: the rule specifies a minimum concentration in the finished product, which a pot of porridge oats is not made to meet. We did not find a source we could read comparing kitchen oats with colloidal oatmeal for skin, so we make no claim that they are equivalent.

What FDA's rule says

• Concentration: colloidal oatmeal as an active ingredient must be at least 0.007 percent (0.003 percent in an oilated form combined with mineral oil). [1]
• What the label may say: it may state that the product "temporarily protects and helps relieve minor skin irritation and itching due to rashes, eczema, poison ivy, oak or sumac, or insect bites." [1]
• Bath directions: manufacturers must give directions to obtain a bath solution with at least 0.007 percent colloidal oatmeal (0.25 percent for a foot bath or a compress), and the label directs soaking for 15 to 30 minutes, then patting dry without rubbing. [1]
• Warnings: for external use only; do not get into eyes; to avoid slipping use a mat in the tub or shower; in some skin conditions, soaking too long may overdry; stop use and ask a doctor if the condition worsens or symptoms last more than 7 days or clear up and return within a few days. [1]

What it does not cover

This describes the regulated product category. It does not show that ordinary oats or homemade oat baths work, and it does not support use on serious, infected or worrying skin. For eczema, see a clinician. We did not read clinical trials of colloidal oatmeal in this round.