Natural Skincare series #1: Oatmeal

Image Source: http://www.uncletobys.com.au/oats

There is a huge move from using harsh chemicals to more natural remedies. Who can blame them? So what is the difference between Synthetic vs. Natural?

Synthetic chemicals are made artificially through chemical reactions. Synthetic materials are made from ingredients that are manufactured entirely from synthetic chemicals and/or petroleum derivatives. Sometimes synthetic chemicals can cause irritation to those who have sensitive skin^[1].

Natural materials are composed of physical, chemical and biological elements. They are perceived to be more safe, more pure and more effective. It is hard nowadays to determine what are natural products as they are hard to regulate and control. Due to consumer confusion sometimes companies take advantage. Natural products are those with natural starting materials that can be used as they are or used to develop natural raw materials. To end up as a natural finished product, the starting material must not have any residual synthetic ingredients added.

Oats have a high source of fibre, containing a rich source of beta-glucan, a soluble fibre that can help reduce cholesterol re-absorption^[2]. Oats are also known as a "superfood" as they are 100% whole grain and contain vitamins and minerals.They are also low in sodium and provide protein and carbohydrate for energy^[3].

However, what are the benefits of using oats on your skin?

Oats are:

• Pore cleansing - they can help treat acne, help remove dead skin cells and can soak up oil.
• Moisturising - smoothe dry or irritated skin. They also provide soothing relief from sunburn, irritations and heal skin and pores.
• Defense building - proteins in oatmeal help maintain the skin's natural barrier function; what stays in stay in, what stays out stays out^[4,5] .

Here are some natural remedies using oatmeal:

Bath for dry skin 

• 2 cups of oatmeal
• Add a cup of milk or soymilk (vegan) 
• 1 tablespoon of honey if you wish

Mask for dry skin
Ingredients: egg yolk, honey, milk/soy milk or yoghurt, oatmeal, almond meal

1. Mix one egg yolk and one tablespoon of honey.
2. In a separate bowl mix together one tablespoon oatmeal and one tablespoon of almond meal
3. Stir the egg mixture into the meal mixture
4. Add one tablespoon milk/soy milk or yoghurt
5. Apply the mixture to your face for 20 to 30 minutes
6. Rinse with warm water, then cool water.
7. Continue with your skin regime^[6].

Treatment of acne
Bring some oatmeal to the boil and let it cool for at least 15 minutes. Apply on area for 15-20 minutes and then rinse off. Continue with your skin regime.

Have you tried oatmeal before? What are your thoughts?

Stay beautiful, be you xoxo

1. http://www.organicmakeup.ca/ca/NaturalSyntheticCosmetics.asp
2. http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/tips/g1704/oatmeal-uses-skin-460809/?slide=1
3. http://www.uncletobys.com.au/oats/benefits
4. https://www.sharecare.com/health/skin-hair-nail-beauty/article/why-your-skin-craves-oatmeal
5. http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-health-benefits-of-oats/
6. Carpenter, D. Fulcrum Publishing. 1995. Nature's Beauty Kit Cosmetic Recipes You Can Make at Home. pg 19.
.